by Diana Botluk
Where do you go when you need to know more about a type of forensic science or a particular scientific evidentiary issue? Whether you are a law enforcement professional looking for information on voice analysis, a lawyer preparing a forensic anthropologist for trial, an academic doing research on forensic linguistics, or a person who just wants to know if the latest story line on CSI: Miami could possibly be true, there is a Web site that can help.
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/226876.pdf
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
IJIS Institute Educates Congress on Information Sharing
Sponsors briefing on the Hill to call attention to critical homeland security issue
The IJIS Institute, a nonprofit organization established by a shared private-public vision to improve mission-critical information sharing in justice, public safety, and homeland security, hosted a Congressional Briefing on Information Sharing and the Security of our Nation in cooperation with Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro. The briefing, held on Patriot Day, September 11, 2009, was attended by legislative directors and congressional staff, committee and sub-committee staff, high-ranking officials from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (U.S. Department of Justice), and representatives from major national public safety organizations.
Information is the lifeblood of effective public safety and homeland security. Sharing crucial information pertaining to justice, public safety, and anti-terrorism continues to be a national imperative. Terrorism, natural disasters, and other catastrophic events have exposed the shortcomings of government computer systems and their inability to share information across domains, between agencies, and amongst neighboring jurisdictions. The briefing educated participants on what the government and its private sector partners are doing to help the information sharing effort for the common good.
The briefing, moderated by the chairman of the IJIS Institute’s Intergovernmental Relations Committee, Steve Mednick, featured IJIS Institute President, Mike Lyons, speaking about “Connecting the Dots” in information sharing, as well as Maury Mitchell, director of the Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center, who provided a presentation on “Information Sharing from the State and Local Perspective.” The session ended with a discussion on “National Initiatives for Information Sharing” presented by IJIS Institute’s executive director, Paul Wormeli. Several participants engaged the panel with questions about information sharing benefits, costs, and solutions.
Reflecting on the briefing, Wormeli noted that, “There is a fear in the information technology industry that information sharing – even as critical as it is to public safety and homeland security – will be overshadowed and undervalued in the coming years. I am pleased to have been able to put this crucial topic back on the Capitol Hill radar and I look forward to continued engagement in national-level dialogues on this vital topic.”
About the IJIS Institute—The IJIS Institute serves as the voice of industry by uniting the private and public sectors to improve mission critical information sharing for those who protect and serve our communities. The IJIS Institute provides training, technical assistance, national scope issue management and program management services to help government fully realize the power of information sharing. Founded in 2001 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation with national headquarters on The George Washington University Virginia Campus in Ashburn, Virginia, the IJIS Institute has grown to more than 250 member and affiliate companies across the United States. For more information visit www.ijis.org.
The IJIS Institute, a nonprofit organization established by a shared private-public vision to improve mission-critical information sharing in justice, public safety, and homeland security, hosted a Congressional Briefing on Information Sharing and the Security of our Nation in cooperation with Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro. The briefing, held on Patriot Day, September 11, 2009, was attended by legislative directors and congressional staff, committee and sub-committee staff, high-ranking officials from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (U.S. Department of Justice), and representatives from major national public safety organizations.
Information is the lifeblood of effective public safety and homeland security. Sharing crucial information pertaining to justice, public safety, and anti-terrorism continues to be a national imperative. Terrorism, natural disasters, and other catastrophic events have exposed the shortcomings of government computer systems and their inability to share information across domains, between agencies, and amongst neighboring jurisdictions. The briefing educated participants on what the government and its private sector partners are doing to help the information sharing effort for the common good.
The briefing, moderated by the chairman of the IJIS Institute’s Intergovernmental Relations Committee, Steve Mednick, featured IJIS Institute President, Mike Lyons, speaking about “Connecting the Dots” in information sharing, as well as Maury Mitchell, director of the Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center, who provided a presentation on “Information Sharing from the State and Local Perspective.” The session ended with a discussion on “National Initiatives for Information Sharing” presented by IJIS Institute’s executive director, Paul Wormeli. Several participants engaged the panel with questions about information sharing benefits, costs, and solutions.
Reflecting on the briefing, Wormeli noted that, “There is a fear in the information technology industry that information sharing – even as critical as it is to public safety and homeland security – will be overshadowed and undervalued in the coming years. I am pleased to have been able to put this crucial topic back on the Capitol Hill radar and I look forward to continued engagement in national-level dialogues on this vital topic.”
About the IJIS Institute—The IJIS Institute serves as the voice of industry by uniting the private and public sectors to improve mission critical information sharing for those who protect and serve our communities. The IJIS Institute provides training, technical assistance, national scope issue management and program management services to help government fully realize the power of information sharing. Founded in 2001 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation with national headquarters on The George Washington University Virginia Campus in Ashburn, Virginia, the IJIS Institute has grown to more than 250 member and affiliate companies across the United States. For more information visit www.ijis.org.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Public Safety Technology in the News
Law Enforcement Officers Gain Powerful Tool: Video Billboards
The Leaf Chronicle (Associated Press), (08/29/2009), Duncan Mansfield
After bank surveillance photos from a string of robberies dating back to May flashed on electronic billboards across the South, the FBI named a suspect in the manhunt. A four-month search using traditional investigation techniques failed to produce a suspect, but the man was identified within 24 hours of the photo’s appearance on highway signs. Major billboard companies and the Outdoor Advertising Association of America have organized a 40-state network that has led to the capture of at least 20 individuals in the past 18 months. In this case, the photo initially ran on electronic billboards in Alabama, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. The billboard companies make the service available free of charge.
www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20090829/NEWS01/908290327
Md. Officials Test Cell Phone Detection at Prison
Houston Chronicle (Associated Press), (09/03/2009), Brian Witte
Recently, officials from Maryland, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia and Delaware gathered to observe cell phone detection technology testing at a closed Maryland prison, along with representatives of the National Governors Association, the American Correctional Association and the American Jail Association. Six vendors put their technology to the test at the Maryland House of Correction, closed in March 2007 because of difficulty in controlling inmate violence. The technologies are designed to allow corrections officials to locate and root out contraband cell phones. Five of the six technologies would not require a change in laws related to cell-phone jamming, prohibited by federal law. One company required a special Federal Communications Commission license for the testing procedure. Using dog and security measures, Maryland officials confiscated 947 cell phones in 2008.
www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/6601227.html
Electronic Ticketing Integration Saves Municipal Court Time and Resources
Reuters, (09/03/2009)
The Kansas City Municipal Court (KCMC) and the local law enforcement department have achieved integration between the court’s JustWare Municipal Court case management solution and the city’s Advanced Public Safety, Inc.’s (APS) electronic ticketing devices. Ticket information from an officer’s PocketCitation ticketing devices is entered automatically into JustWare, eliminating the need for paper copies and manual data entry. The transfer is not real-time, but occurs at the end of each shift when an officer docks a handheld unit into the system. KCMC serves a population of more than 144,000 and has used JustWare Municipal Court since 2007.
www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS192997+03-Sep-2009+BW20090903
Power Management/Anti-Idling Technology Provides Law Enforcement Agencies With Efficient, Cost-Effective Way to Operate Vehicle Electrical Systems During Stops Without Engine Engaged
Reuters, (09/03/2009
Energy Xtreme’s Independence Package provides a unique power management system that operates a car’s electrical system with the engine turned off. This package helps law enforcement deal with the high demand that advanced electrical systems often take on engines. It installs in the trunk of an officer’s car and needs only minimal space, yet can power a car’s systems for up to four hours. It automatically recharges once the engine is turned back on. The Independence Package can also start an engine that has a dead battery.
www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS211693+03-Sep-2009+BW20090903
Federal Funds Bring B.E.A.R. to Valley
The Brownsville Herald, (09/07/2009), Jared Taylor
Hidalgo County, Texas, has begun using “the B.E.A.R.,” a 12-foot high armor-plated vehicle that can transport up to three six-member SWAT teams or used to rescue up to 35 people. The vehicle includes a detachable battering ram on its front and has eight openings in its bulletproof walls and windows to enable law enforcement officers to return fire. The B.E.A.R. can withstand armor-piercing rounds, grenades and improvised explosive devices. It includes a turret suitable for mounting a machine gun and is the first of its kind being used by a law enforcement agency south of San Antonio. The vehicle also features an infrared camera that will allow officers to search for suspects in rough terrain at night. Its purchase was funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
www.brownsvilleherald.com/news/brings-102083-edinburg-federal.html
Convicted Sex Offender Arrested for Child Porn in N. Arizona
Associated Press, (08/07/2009)
Field Search, a product developed by NLECTC-Rocky Mountain, played a role in the arrest of a convicted sex offender charged with possessing pornographic images of children on his computer in Yavapai County, Ariz. The sheriff’s office charged 57-year-old Larry Dick with 13 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.
www.abc15.com/content/news/northernarizona/prescott/story/Convicted-sex-offender-arrested-for-child-porn-in/i_V27TfpI0S2RF2NLpNXrg.cspx
Lehigh County and CODY Systems Go Live With Real-time Records Sharing Software for Police Officers and Investigators Countywide
MarketWatch, (09/08/2009)
In Lehigh County, Pa., 19 agencies have begun sharing data in real-time on the countywide real-time Records and Data Sharing Network, using an integrated solution from vendor CODY. The suite includes a records management system (RMS) module available to all law enforcement agencies, mobile field reporting for all users and a system that connects all agencies under one data sharing network. The cities of Bethlehem and Allentown and the district attorney’s office also participate.
www.marketwatch.com/story/lehigh-county-and-cody-systems-go-live-with-real-time-records-sharing-software-for-police-officers-and-investigators-countywide-2009-09-08
U.S., Mexico to Build Cross-Border Network
InformationWeek, (09/04/2009), J. Nicholas Hoover
The United States-Mexico High-Level Consultative Commission on Telecommunications has established a bilateral working group to oversee construction of a new $7 million public safety and law enforcement network that will extend between the two nations, using existing wireless infrastructure where possible. The working group plans to keep the technical architecture confidential to maximize cybersecurity. The network will be managed jointly by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Mexican Secretariat of Public Security. No date for launch has been set.
www.informationweek.com/news/government/security/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=219501273
Baton Uses Handcuff Tech to Detain Violent Suspects
Manteca Bulletin, (09/01/2009), Glenn Kahl
The Ripon (Calif.) Police Department is testing a police baton that doubles as a handcuff. Officers recently underwent manufacturer-supplied training on the use of the “Apprehender” police baton, which can be used as either a wrist or an ankle restraint. The length of the baton gives the officer leverage that can be used in putting suspects on the ground. It can also be used to lock up a car’s steering wheel. In initial testing, 10 officers will take the device into the field and provide evaluations. Promotional batons are also being tested in New Jersey, Utah, Florida and Canada.
www.mantecabulletin.com/news/article/6656/
Tasers’ Test Results Spark Invention
Richmond News, (09/09/2009), Nelson Bennett
Datrend Systems, a Richmond (Va.)-based company that manufactures instruments to test specialized medical equipment such as defibrillators, is working on development of TAZRTest, a portable device that law enforcement agencies could use in the field to determine if their conducted energy devices (CEDs) are working properly. The company recently applied for a patent, with approval expected in about 18 months. At present, law enforcement agencies must send their CEDs to one of the few labs that perform testing if they suspect that the weapons are not discharging at the proper rate.
www2.canada.com/richmondnews/news/story.html?id=0fa3b787-b632-4543-a991-354de3f9cd74
The Leaf Chronicle (Associated Press), (08/29/2009), Duncan Mansfield
After bank surveillance photos from a string of robberies dating back to May flashed on electronic billboards across the South, the FBI named a suspect in the manhunt. A four-month search using traditional investigation techniques failed to produce a suspect, but the man was identified within 24 hours of the photo’s appearance on highway signs. Major billboard companies and the Outdoor Advertising Association of America have organized a 40-state network that has led to the capture of at least 20 individuals in the past 18 months. In this case, the photo initially ran on electronic billboards in Alabama, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. The billboard companies make the service available free of charge.
www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20090829/NEWS01/908290327
Md. Officials Test Cell Phone Detection at Prison
Houston Chronicle (Associated Press), (09/03/2009), Brian Witte
Recently, officials from Maryland, South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia and Delaware gathered to observe cell phone detection technology testing at a closed Maryland prison, along with representatives of the National Governors Association, the American Correctional Association and the American Jail Association. Six vendors put their technology to the test at the Maryland House of Correction, closed in March 2007 because of difficulty in controlling inmate violence. The technologies are designed to allow corrections officials to locate and root out contraband cell phones. Five of the six technologies would not require a change in laws related to cell-phone jamming, prohibited by federal law. One company required a special Federal Communications Commission license for the testing procedure. Using dog and security measures, Maryland officials confiscated 947 cell phones in 2008.
www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/6601227.html
Electronic Ticketing Integration Saves Municipal Court Time and Resources
Reuters, (09/03/2009)
The Kansas City Municipal Court (KCMC) and the local law enforcement department have achieved integration between the court’s JustWare Municipal Court case management solution and the city’s Advanced Public Safety, Inc.’s (APS) electronic ticketing devices. Ticket information from an officer’s PocketCitation ticketing devices is entered automatically into JustWare, eliminating the need for paper copies and manual data entry. The transfer is not real-time, but occurs at the end of each shift when an officer docks a handheld unit into the system. KCMC serves a population of more than 144,000 and has used JustWare Municipal Court since 2007.
www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS192997+03-Sep-2009+BW20090903
Power Management/Anti-Idling Technology Provides Law Enforcement Agencies With Efficient, Cost-Effective Way to Operate Vehicle Electrical Systems During Stops Without Engine Engaged
Reuters, (09/03/2009
Energy Xtreme’s Independence Package provides a unique power management system that operates a car’s electrical system with the engine turned off. This package helps law enforcement deal with the high demand that advanced electrical systems often take on engines. It installs in the trunk of an officer’s car and needs only minimal space, yet can power a car’s systems for up to four hours. It automatically recharges once the engine is turned back on. The Independence Package can also start an engine that has a dead battery.
www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS211693+03-Sep-2009+BW20090903
Federal Funds Bring B.E.A.R. to Valley
The Brownsville Herald, (09/07/2009), Jared Taylor
Hidalgo County, Texas, has begun using “the B.E.A.R.,” a 12-foot high armor-plated vehicle that can transport up to three six-member SWAT teams or used to rescue up to 35 people. The vehicle includes a detachable battering ram on its front and has eight openings in its bulletproof walls and windows to enable law enforcement officers to return fire. The B.E.A.R. can withstand armor-piercing rounds, grenades and improvised explosive devices. It includes a turret suitable for mounting a machine gun and is the first of its kind being used by a law enforcement agency south of San Antonio. The vehicle also features an infrared camera that will allow officers to search for suspects in rough terrain at night. Its purchase was funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
www.brownsvilleherald.com/news/brings-102083-edinburg-federal.html
Convicted Sex Offender Arrested for Child Porn in N. Arizona
Associated Press, (08/07/2009)
Field Search, a product developed by NLECTC-Rocky Mountain, played a role in the arrest of a convicted sex offender charged with possessing pornographic images of children on his computer in Yavapai County, Ariz. The sheriff’s office charged 57-year-old Larry Dick with 13 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.
www.abc15.com/content/news/northernarizona/prescott/story/Convicted-sex-offender-arrested-for-child-porn-in/i_V27TfpI0S2RF2NLpNXrg.cspx
Lehigh County and CODY Systems Go Live With Real-time Records Sharing Software for Police Officers and Investigators Countywide
MarketWatch, (09/08/2009)
In Lehigh County, Pa., 19 agencies have begun sharing data in real-time on the countywide real-time Records and Data Sharing Network, using an integrated solution from vendor CODY. The suite includes a records management system (RMS) module available to all law enforcement agencies, mobile field reporting for all users and a system that connects all agencies under one data sharing network. The cities of Bethlehem and Allentown and the district attorney’s office also participate.
www.marketwatch.com/story/lehigh-county-and-cody-systems-go-live-with-real-time-records-sharing-software-for-police-officers-and-investigators-countywide-2009-09-08
U.S., Mexico to Build Cross-Border Network
InformationWeek, (09/04/2009), J. Nicholas Hoover
The United States-Mexico High-Level Consultative Commission on Telecommunications has established a bilateral working group to oversee construction of a new $7 million public safety and law enforcement network that will extend between the two nations, using existing wireless infrastructure where possible. The working group plans to keep the technical architecture confidential to maximize cybersecurity. The network will be managed jointly by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Mexican Secretariat of Public Security. No date for launch has been set.
www.informationweek.com/news/government/security/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=219501273
Baton Uses Handcuff Tech to Detain Violent Suspects
Manteca Bulletin, (09/01/2009), Glenn Kahl
The Ripon (Calif.) Police Department is testing a police baton that doubles as a handcuff. Officers recently underwent manufacturer-supplied training on the use of the “Apprehender” police baton, which can be used as either a wrist or an ankle restraint. The length of the baton gives the officer leverage that can be used in putting suspects on the ground. It can also be used to lock up a car’s steering wheel. In initial testing, 10 officers will take the device into the field and provide evaluations. Promotional batons are also being tested in New Jersey, Utah, Florida and Canada.
www.mantecabulletin.com/news/article/6656/
Tasers’ Test Results Spark Invention
Richmond News, (09/09/2009), Nelson Bennett
Datrend Systems, a Richmond (Va.)-based company that manufactures instruments to test specialized medical equipment such as defibrillators, is working on development of TAZRTest, a portable device that law enforcement agencies could use in the field to determine if their conducted energy devices (CEDs) are working properly. The company recently applied for a patent, with approval expected in about 18 months. At present, law enforcement agencies must send their CEDs to one of the few labs that perform testing if they suspect that the weapons are not discharging at the proper rate.
www2.canada.com/richmondnews/news/story.html?id=0fa3b787-b632-4543-a991-354de3f9cd74
NIJ to Host Four Standards-Related Workshops for Manufacturers
On Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2009, during the 116th Annual International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference and Exposition in Denver, Colo., the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) will host four standards-related workshops for manufacturers. These workshops will provide the opportunity for NIJ to introduce manufacturers to new standards under development and receive their feedback. Participants are strongly encouraged to come prepared to ask questions and to voice suggestions and concerns. Space is limited.
For information on how to register, follow the workshop-related links below:
· NIJ Law Enforcement Duty Holster Retention Standard Workshop
· NIJ Restraints Standard Workshop
· NIJ Vehicular Digital Multimedia Evidence Recording System Standard Workshop
· NIJ Metal Detector Standards Workshop
For information on how to register, follow the workshop-related links below:
· NIJ Law Enforcement Duty Holster Retention Standard Workshop
· NIJ Restraints Standard Workshop
· NIJ Vehicular Digital Multimedia Evidence Recording System Standard Workshop
· NIJ Metal Detector Standards Workshop
Microsoft Earns Award for Support of Guard, Reserve
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 16, 2009 - When Tom Castellano was called on to deploy in 2007, his manager at Microsoft had a parting gift. "She gave me a GPS device," the Army Reserve major said. "She told me, 'This is to help find your way back to Microsoft.'"
Castellano deployed from his home in Omaha, Neb., to Fort Meade, Md., where he spent 14 months working in support of Operation Noble Eagle. In addition to the GPS gift, Castellano received the difference between his military pay and his Microsoft salary during his deployment. The company also continued medical and life insurance benefits for Castellano and his family.
For its support of Castellano and several hundred others at Microsoft also in the reserve-component forces, Microsoft, along with 14 other employers, will receive the Defense Department's Freedom Award in a ceremony here tomorrow.
"Their support allowed me to focus on the military mission. I didn't have to worry too much about finances," said Castellano, a military intelligence officer. "I got some positive feedback from even some high-level executives at Microsoft. It made me feel proud to know they were out there supporting me doing something worthwhile."
As a matter of policy, Microsoft recognizes the military service of Castellano and other citizen-servicemembers through newsletters, official Microsoft publications and public events. Company officials also bent some of the rules for Castellano upon his return, he recalled.
"Usually the policy is [that] if you don't use your vacation, it would get lost if it lasts over a year," he said. "But I was reinstated all the vacation time I accrued up to my deployment. They made the exception for me so I could get that back."
Teresa Carlson, Microsoft's vice president of U.S. federal government sales, said Microsoft goes to great lengths to alleviate work-related stress that reserve-component servicemembers on the company's payroll feel while on active duty.
"When someone goes to active duty, the one concern they have is, 'Am I going to have a job when I come back?' Absolutely. Yes, you're going to have a job. Yes, you continue your benefits, and we give you pay differential," Carlson said. "So we try to ensure that when they leave us to go to active duty, they still maintain those same benefits. They don't have to worry about that -- that's one thing that's taken off their plates."
Carlson said employees often mention servicemen and women deployed overseas during company meetings. "We continually keep them in the conversation until they come back and join us again," she said.
When asked if there were qualities in military members that carry over into their civilian jobs, Carlson prefaced her response by disclosing her own family's experience.
"My husband was Army, my son's at West Point, and I spent a lot of years as a military wife. I have a bias," she said. "They are warm-hearted, good people. [They have] high values, care about their government and care about their country. And that absolutely translates to their work life.
"They don't know boundaries of time, because they work until the job's done," she said. "Their training is such that you give them a job to do [and] even though they may not have been specifically trained, they take the hill. They get it done."
The Freedom Award, instituted in 1996 under the auspices of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 16, 2009 - When Tom Castellano was called on to deploy in 2007, his manager at Microsoft had a parting gift. "She gave me a GPS device," the Army Reserve major said. "She told me, 'This is to help find your way back to Microsoft.'"
Castellano deployed from his home in Omaha, Neb., to Fort Meade, Md., where he spent 14 months working in support of Operation Noble Eagle. In addition to the GPS gift, Castellano received the difference between his military pay and his Microsoft salary during his deployment. The company also continued medical and life insurance benefits for Castellano and his family.
For its support of Castellano and several hundred others at Microsoft also in the reserve-component forces, Microsoft, along with 14 other employers, will receive the Defense Department's Freedom Award in a ceremony here tomorrow.
"Their support allowed me to focus on the military mission. I didn't have to worry too much about finances," said Castellano, a military intelligence officer. "I got some positive feedback from even some high-level executives at Microsoft. It made me feel proud to know they were out there supporting me doing something worthwhile."
As a matter of policy, Microsoft recognizes the military service of Castellano and other citizen-servicemembers through newsletters, official Microsoft publications and public events. Company officials also bent some of the rules for Castellano upon his return, he recalled.
"Usually the policy is [that] if you don't use your vacation, it would get lost if it lasts over a year," he said. "But I was reinstated all the vacation time I accrued up to my deployment. They made the exception for me so I could get that back."
Teresa Carlson, Microsoft's vice president of U.S. federal government sales, said Microsoft goes to great lengths to alleviate work-related stress that reserve-component servicemembers on the company's payroll feel while on active duty.
"When someone goes to active duty, the one concern they have is, 'Am I going to have a job when I come back?' Absolutely. Yes, you're going to have a job. Yes, you continue your benefits, and we give you pay differential," Carlson said. "So we try to ensure that when they leave us to go to active duty, they still maintain those same benefits. They don't have to worry about that -- that's one thing that's taken off their plates."
Carlson said employees often mention servicemen and women deployed overseas during company meetings. "We continually keep them in the conversation until they come back and join us again," she said.
When asked if there were qualities in military members that carry over into their civilian jobs, Carlson prefaced her response by disclosing her own family's experience.
"My husband was Army, my son's at West Point, and I spent a lot of years as a military wife. I have a bias," she said. "They are warm-hearted, good people. [They have] high values, care about their government and care about their country. And that absolutely translates to their work life.
"They don't know boundaries of time, because they work until the job's done," she said. "Their training is such that you give them a job to do [and] even though they may not have been specifically trained, they take the hill. They get it done."
The Freedom Award, instituted in 1996 under the auspices of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, recognizes U.S. employers that rise above the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Prescription Monitoring Program Achieves Milestone
Exchange of simulated data paves the way for nationwide capability
The IJIS Institute, a nonprofit organization that focuses on mission-critical information sharing for justice, public safety, and homeland security, is pleased to announce the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) Information Exchange (PMIX) project realized a significant milestone on September 1, 2009, with the successful exchange of simulated patient data between the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The PMIX project, which helps states exchange dispensed controlled-substance prescription data, is a partnership of the IJIS Institute, representatives from the involved states, and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice.
PMP systems are controlled by authorized state agencies to collect controlled substance dispensing data in a centralized state database. Designed to help detect and prevent the diversion and abuse of these substances, the programs involve the cooperative efforts of law enforcement, health providers and communities in general. The IJIS Institute is helping states exchange dispensed controlled-substance prescription data through a multi-phased process of developing baseline standards for automated information exchanges, implementing pilot exchange capabilities, and expanding successful pilot implementations into a multi-state solution.
The primary objective of the PMIX project was to develop and test a prototype, intermediary Hub server to enable future, cost-effective expansion of PMIX capabilities to a national scale. The capability to exchange simulated patient data through the Hub was successfully demonstrated on September 1 by representatives of the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The exchange of simulated patient data was covered by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that enabled the sharing of data between test systems in the two states. The demonstration showed how a prescriber in either state could make a request and receive dispensed prescription data through the state's web-based PMP system.
With assistance from the Alliance of States with Prescription Monitoring Programs (ASPMP), additional states are already developing MOUs with exchange partners and making preparations to implement and test similar PMIX capabilities using simulated patient data.
An important project outcome was to demonstrate a way to reduce the overhead cost that could have accrued at the national level if every potential pair of exchange partners was to implement a separate point-to-point exchange. Another was to make substantial progress supporting the community's long-range goal of achieving a National Information Exchange Model (NIEM)-conformant nationwide PMIX capability. The project showed the feasibility of developing real, executable software code to serve the expectations of a diverse set of stakeholders under substantially divergent state statutes. The states of Ohio and Kentucky, with assistance from an array of IJIS Institute member firms, stepped up to meet this challenge and deserve credit for aggressively taking the lead in the PMP domain. The following IJIS Institute members contributed to the project: BruckEdwards, Inc., Patriot Data Solutions Group, Optimum Technology, Vortx, Delegata, and Health Information Designs, Inc.
The PMIX project is funded by a grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), with supplemental funding under the 2008 Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. BJA supports PMP programs, such as the PMIX project, through the 2008 Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, technology assistance projects through the National Alliance for Model State Drug Laws (NAMSDL), and coordination through the ASPMP. The PMIX project receives guidance from the BJA/IJIS Institute PMP Committee comprised of state PMP representatives (Alabama, California, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, and New York), Institute members, and representatives of various federal interests, including BJA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The IJIS Institute, a nonprofit organization that focuses on mission-critical information sharing for justice, public safety, and homeland security, is pleased to announce the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) Information Exchange (PMIX) project realized a significant milestone on September 1, 2009, with the successful exchange of simulated patient data between the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The PMIX project, which helps states exchange dispensed controlled-substance prescription data, is a partnership of the IJIS Institute, representatives from the involved states, and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice.
PMP systems are controlled by authorized state agencies to collect controlled substance dispensing data in a centralized state database. Designed to help detect and prevent the diversion and abuse of these substances, the programs involve the cooperative efforts of law enforcement, health providers and communities in general. The IJIS Institute is helping states exchange dispensed controlled-substance prescription data through a multi-phased process of developing baseline standards for automated information exchanges, implementing pilot exchange capabilities, and expanding successful pilot implementations into a multi-state solution.
The primary objective of the PMIX project was to develop and test a prototype, intermediary Hub server to enable future, cost-effective expansion of PMIX capabilities to a national scale. The capability to exchange simulated patient data through the Hub was successfully demonstrated on September 1 by representatives of the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The exchange of simulated patient data was covered by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that enabled the sharing of data between test systems in the two states. The demonstration showed how a prescriber in either state could make a request and receive dispensed prescription data through the state's web-based PMP system.
With assistance from the Alliance of States with Prescription Monitoring Programs (ASPMP), additional states are already developing MOUs with exchange partners and making preparations to implement and test similar PMIX capabilities using simulated patient data.
An important project outcome was to demonstrate a way to reduce the overhead cost that could have accrued at the national level if every potential pair of exchange partners was to implement a separate point-to-point exchange. Another was to make substantial progress supporting the community's long-range goal of achieving a National Information Exchange Model (NIEM)-conformant nationwide PMIX capability. The project showed the feasibility of developing real, executable software code to serve the expectations of a diverse set of stakeholders under substantially divergent state statutes. The states of Ohio and Kentucky, with assistance from an array of IJIS Institute member firms, stepped up to meet this challenge and deserve credit for aggressively taking the lead in the PMP domain. The following IJIS Institute members contributed to the project: BruckEdwards, Inc., Patriot Data Solutions Group, Optimum Technology, Vortx, Delegata, and Health Information Designs, Inc.
The PMIX project is funded by a grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), with supplemental funding under the 2008 Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. BJA supports PMP programs, such as the PMIX project, through the 2008 Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, technology assistance projects through the National Alliance for Model State Drug Laws (NAMSDL), and coordination through the ASPMP. The PMIX project receives guidance from the BJA/IJIS Institute PMP Committee comprised of state PMP representatives (Alabama, California, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, and New York), Institute members, and representatives of various federal interests, including BJA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Robotic Rodeo Displays Future Help for Soldiers
By Christen N. McCluney
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2009 - Two seemingly different U.S. Army organizations gathered robotics experts, technologists, academecs, soldiers and companies from across the country in search of solutions to help save soldiers' lives. The 3rd Corps and U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center, or TARDEC, based on Fort Hood, Texas, hosted the first Robotics Rodeo to showcase what's new in the world of automation.
"The number one goal is to save the lives of our soldiers," said Lt. Col. Barry "Chip" Daniels, 3rd Corps' robotics project officer said in a Sept. 9 interview on "Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military" on Pentagon Web Radio.
The rodeo was intended to foster better communication between soldiers and robotics developers. In this forum, soldiers can offer information on what they actually need in theater, and developers can share what technology is available in the development stage, as opposed to the fielding stage, Daniels said.
More than 30 exhibitors were on hand to display the latest in autonomous robotics, a capability that allows robots to function without a user interface, which helps in areas with limited communications or when soldiers have other tasks to focus on.
"There are a lot of enabling technologies and we saw a lot of examples at the rodeo," said Jim Overholt, director of the Joint Center for Robotics at TARDEC. "Robots are still in their infancy. If we don't have the robots keeping up with the operational tempo of what the troops are used to, they will leave the robots behind."
Daniels advised thinking beyond common perceptions of what robots are capable of when thinking of how they might help the military.
"Often we fall victim to what Hollywood tells us a robot can do," he said. "If they [soldiers] know what the robot is capable of doing, they can see the utility in having it fielded."
Overholt said he is excited that technology developers who have been hearing the need for more mobile platforms, higher rates of speed and stability, are responding to the demand.
Soldiers' feedback is valuable in updating technology and helps with the development phase in all areas, from design of robots to the size of battery packs, he said.
TARDEC also has embedded engineers in Afghanistan and Iraq to see firsthand how soldiers would use the equipment and get insight from the field on how to design it.
Because many of today's soldiers grew up with gaming consoles, TARDEC designed many of the robots to be operated with joysticks.
"It's amazing, you give some of these soldiers robots that can be controlled from a game station or a simple controller and it's not a matter of reading manuals, they are operating that robot in a matter of minutes," Overholt said.
One of the main purposes of having the robots is to simplify capabilities so soldiers are not distracted from what is going on around them.
The robotic technology showcased at the rodeo was designed to help the military with four missions: route clearance, to allow robots to sweep areas instead of troops; logistic convoys, in which robots travel alone between different points; persistent stare, where the robots can observe an area with artificial intelligence alerts; and as future robotic wingmen to augment the current manned combat force, Daniels said.
"The learning that took place on both sides was wonderful to witness," Overholt said.
Daniels agreed that the collaboration between soldiers and robot developers must continue. "Until the systems are in the hands of the soldiers, we are not done," he said.
(Christen N. McCluney works in the Defense Media Activity's emerging media directorate.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 11, 2009 - Two seemingly different U.S. Army organizations gathered robotics experts, technologists, academecs, soldiers and companies from across the country in search of solutions to help save soldiers' lives. The 3rd Corps and U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center, or TARDEC, based on Fort Hood, Texas, hosted the first Robotics Rodeo to showcase what's new in the world of automation.
"The number one goal is to save the lives of our soldiers," said Lt. Col. Barry "Chip" Daniels, 3rd Corps' robotics project officer said in a Sept. 9 interview on "Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military" on Pentagon Web Radio.
The rodeo was intended to foster better communication between soldiers and robotics developers. In this forum, soldiers can offer information on what they actually need in theater, and developers can share what technology is available in the development stage, as opposed to the fielding stage, Daniels said.
More than 30 exhibitors were on hand to display the latest in autonomous robotics, a capability that allows robots to function without a user interface, which helps in areas with limited communications or when soldiers have other tasks to focus on.
"There are a lot of enabling technologies and we saw a lot of examples at the rodeo," said Jim Overholt, director of the Joint Center for Robotics at TARDEC. "Robots are still in their infancy. If we don't have the robots keeping up with the operational tempo of what the troops are used to, they will leave the robots behind."
Daniels advised thinking beyond common perceptions of what robots are capable of when thinking of how they might help the military.
"Often we fall victim to what Hollywood tells us a robot can do," he said. "If they [soldiers] know what the robot is capable of doing, they can see the utility in having it fielded."
Overholt said he is excited that technology developers who have been hearing the need for more mobile platforms, higher rates of speed and stability, are responding to the demand.
Soldiers' feedback is valuable in updating technology and helps with the development phase in all areas, from design of robots to the size of battery packs, he said.
TARDEC also has embedded engineers in Afghanistan and Iraq to see firsthand how soldiers would use the equipment and get insight from the field on how to design it.
Because many of today's soldiers grew up with gaming consoles, TARDEC designed many of the robots to be operated with joysticks.
"It's amazing, you give some of these soldiers robots that can be controlled from a game station or a simple controller and it's not a matter of reading manuals, they are operating that robot in a matter of minutes," Overholt said.
One of the main purposes of having the robots is to simplify capabilities so soldiers are not distracted from what is going on around them.
The robotic technology showcased at the rodeo was designed to help the military with four missions: route clearance, to allow robots to sweep areas instead of troops; logistic convoys, in which robots travel alone between different points; persistent stare, where the robots can observe an area with artificial intelligence alerts; and as future robotic wingmen to augment the current manned combat force, Daniels said.
"The learning that took place on both sides was wonderful to witness," Overholt said.
Daniels agreed that the collaboration between soldiers and robot developers must continue. "Until the systems are in the hands of the soldiers, we are not done," he said.
(Christen N. McCluney works in the Defense Media Activity's emerging media directorate.)
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