05/24/2010 - FORT NORFOLK, Va. — "With a diverse population you look at things differently, with a different perspective," said Dr. Arun Verma, guest speaker at the Norfolk District Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration, held here May 19.

Dr. Verma, an endowed university professor of mathematics at Hampton University, Hampton, Va., is a first generation Asian-American of Indian descent, who has lived in the United States for the past 21 years.

In his presentation, "Diverse Leadership for a Diverse Workforce," Dr. Verma discussed with district employees the many reasons for celebrating Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, elaborating on how people of Asian and Pacific Island descent have greatly contributed to American society. He also revealed that among the nearly 30 different ethnicities represented by Asian-Pacific Americans, each group offers unique cultures, heritages and religions.

In 1977, Congress reserved the first 10 days of May to celebrate Asian-Pacific American heritage. Congress recognized that people of Asian and Pacific Island descent should be commemorated for their important contributions in shaping the history of the United States. In 1990, the celebration was expanded to a month-long observance in May.

Following his presentation, Dr. Verma conducted an audience quiz using the Personal Response System. PRS is a computer program that uses clickers to answer questions. He quizzed the audience on his presentation as well as their knowledge of significant Asian-Pacific Americans.

At the program's conclusion, district employees were treated to a food-tasting of Philippine cuisine, featuring pancit and ensemada.

05/24/2010 - RICHMOND — A storm system now approaching the U.S. east coast has the potential to become a tropical storm and serves as a reminder to Virginia residents that the Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, starting tomorrow, can help them get ready for hurricane season while saving money.

Hurricane season formally begins June 1, and the Virginia General Assembly created the sales tax holiday to ease the cost of creating an emergency supply kit. Tomorrow through May 31, the purchase of certain items is exempt from sales tax. Some retailers also are discounting items that are exempt from sales tax for additional savings. Customers can use manufacturer's coupons to lower the price of an item even more.

Among the items exempt from sales tax are: bottled water of all sizes and types, flashlights, battery-powered radios, batteries and first aid kits. Frequently asked questions about the tax holiday, a media kit and links to the Virginia Department of Taxation's complete list of tax-exempt items are available at http://www.readyvirginia.gov/stayinformed/sales_tax_holiday.cfm .

05/27/2010 - CHESAPEAKE — The Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the City of Chesapeake and the Elizabeth River Project have all teamed up to restore 30,000 square feet of wetlands located on Scuffletown Creek, a tributary of the Elizabeth River here.

Work on the project is slated to begin on June 2.

"We've been working on this project since 1998 so it's great to get this project going," said Robert Pretlow, project manager with the Norfolk District.

The project is the Corps' first comprehensive effort to restore wetlands lost along the Elizabeth River Basin since the end of World War II, will have several positive impacts on the creek, the Elizabeth River, and ultimately, the Chesapeake Bay.

"This is not a huge restoration project on the ground, but it is huge nevertheless because it is the first of (hopefully) many similar projects to come, said Craig Seltzer, technical team leader on the project. " This project will transform a highly impacted site to valuable Elizabeth River fish and wildlife habitat and will provide the impetus to continue moving in a positive direction."

The former wetlands area being restored were covered with three to seven feet of construction debris located adjacent to the city's boat ramp off Poindexter Street.

The project also includes the clearing and excavation of 3,300 cubic yards of fill material, importing 950 cubic yards of sand, constructing three 56-foot stone and sand containment structures, and planting more than 8,900 plants best suited to survive in a wetlands habitat.

"We believe that this project will compliment the ongoing shoreline restoration work within the Elizabeth River watershed and restore needed shoreline wetland resources," said David Mergen, an environmental scientist with the City of Chesapeake. "The ecological functions this project will restore to these impaired waters are critical to achieving our clean-up goals for the Chesapeake Bay."

The project was first authorized in 1996 as part of the Water Resources Development Act for the same year and the final studies were completed in 2000, which at that time federal funding was not available to bring the project to completion. It wasn't until the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 that funds to complete the project were made available.

More information about the Scuffletown Creek Wetlands Restoration Project can be found on the Norfolk District's Website at www.nao.usace.army.mil/Library/Factsheets/ScuffletownCrkWtlnd_Restoration/.

06/01/2010 - SUFFOLK, Va. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will host its quarterly meeting of the Former Nansemond Ordnance Depot, or FNOD, Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) June 3, from 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

This meeting, which is always open to the public, will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn, 5921 Harbour View Boulevard in Suffolk.

Meeting topics will include status reports on the following:

• USACE Planning Process for Civil Works Projects
• Site Management Plan Update
• Munitions Response Update and Path Forward
• Public Involvement Plan (PIP)

The quarterly RAB meetings serve as the main public forum for discussing USACE remediation progress at the 975-acre former depot, located near the former Tidewater Community College Portsmouth Campus. In 1999, EPA placed FNOD on its National Priorities List.

In 1997, the FNOD RAB was established. It is the main forum for the public to provide input on the cleanup plans and efforts at the site directly to project team members of USACE, VDEQ and the EPA. The RAB is comprised of a diverse group of stakeholders, including community members, local business representatives, local and state officials, a Tidewater Community College (TCC) representative, TCC Real Estate Foundation, Inc., other property owners and FNOD interagency project team members from USACE, VDEQ and the EPA.

The meetings and application for RAB membership are open to the public. Adriane James is the Norfolk District Projects Branch environmental section chief and RAB government co-chair, (757) 201-7701. Sher Zaman, Baltimore District, is the FNOD project manager, (410) 962-3134; Sher.Zaman@usace.army.mil.

Additional project information is located at: http://www.nao.usace.army.mil/Library/Factsheets/FNOD/.

06/02/2010 - NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk District's survey vessel ADAMS II is among the expansive fleet of tall ships, military vessels and tugs, character vessels, sleek power cruisers, sailing craft, and antique and classic wooden boats slated to participate in the 34th Annual Norfolk Harborfest this year from June 11-13, 2010.

Following tradition, the Harborfest Parade of Sail will salute thousands of onlookers around noon on Friday, June 11. While many onlookers will be stationed at vantage points along the Elizabeth River, the larger portion of the crowd is expected to be viewing from Town Point Park, where the vessels will dock. Visitors will be able to play "pirate for a day," climb aboard and tour authentic tall ships, look at the wares of local artists, and listen to live musical acts.

Harborfest began more than a quarter century ago when the Norwegian Tall Ship Christian Radich came to Norfolk, a waterfront community that had no city-owned property or docking facility. The ship was docked three blocks from Town Point at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and 13,000 people crossed her gangway in just one and a half days. Over the next two years, City planners and leaders created berthing to accommodate more ships, and a waterfront public park was planned. Norfolk Harborfest was born.

Today, tall ships from all over the world frequently call on the city of Norfolk and nearly half-a-million visitors gather near the waterfront each year for this annual celebration of one of Hampton Roads' nautical heritage events.

"We were thrilled that Norfolk District was invited by Norfolk Festevents in March to have one of our vessels participate in Harborfest", said Billy Simmons, captain of the ADAMS II vessel.

"The ADAMS does a lot of work in the Hampton Roads harbor so it is a perfect fit," continued Simmons.

Norfolk District's ADAMS II vessel, equipped with state-of-the-art underwater surveying equipment, is used to survey water depths and locate obstructions that could potentially cause extensive damage to watercraft transiting federal navigation channels in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"This is a great opportunity for the public to see an important aspect of the district's navigation mission," said Eric Legaspi, chief of the district's navigation support and survey section.

During Harborfest, ADAMS II is scheduled to dock at the Otter Berth, where the Spirit of Norfolk cruise ship docks. Members of the public are invited to visit June 11 (Friday) from 2-6 p.m. and June 12-13 (Saturday and Sunday) from noon until 6 p.m.

06/03/2010 — Matthew Byrne was promoted to Chief of Engineering and Construction Division May 7, replacing William (Bill) Sorrentino Jr., who became the deputy district engineer. Sorrentino replaces Jim Thomasson, who retires this month.

For the past five months, Byrne has been serving as the interim division chief.

Byrne, originally from Lynn, Mass., graduated from Lowell Technological Institute, Lowell Mass., with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. In 1998, he completed his Masters of Engineering in Civil Engineering at Old Dominion University in Norfolk. He is a graduate of the Army Management Staff College and is a registered professional engineer in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Byrne's passion is spending time with his family and friends. While not at work, he enjoys woodworking, a craft he became interested in from watching the TV show "This Old House." Most of his work entails making furniture for his wife, Beth, who retired from the Corps two years ago. This meticulous skill set is also present in his other hobby, water color painting. He and Beth live in Virginia Beach. Their son, Jonathan, is a 2010 graduate of Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk.

"These are historic times for Norfolk District," said Byrne. "Our employees, at every level in the organization, have consistently stepped up to the plate to deliver quality service to our customers. I can't tell you how proud I am of them and to be part of this great team."

Byrne moved to Hampton Roads and began working at Norfolk District shortly after graduating from Lowell Technological Institute. Although the Corps was his first job out of college, he admits he never planned to live this far south. "My plan was to work in Norfolk until I got another job offer in New England, but the area and the job grew on me," he said.

Byrne was first hired as a cost engineer. Six months later he transferred to become a geotechnical engineer in the geo-environmental section. Byrne worked his way up to chief of geo-environmental section, chief of operations branch and, in 2006, he was promoted to deputy chief of technical services division, or TSD.

"The important thing in a career is to plan it," said Byrne. "If you want to stay purely technical take advantage of training opportunities…improve yourself every day…and become the best you can be in your chosen field. If you want to explore other areas, you need to take full advantage of developmental assignments to expand your knowledge and experience base and successfully position yourself for future opportunities."

His first career goal, earning his professional engineering license, was accomplished in 1983, which required an eight-hour written exam and at least four years of engineering experience. Byrne's second goal was reached last month with his promotion to chief of engineering and construction division.

The job search was open to both internal and external candidates on a national level. Byrne's experience throughout the different branches of TSD made him highly competitive within the selection process.

"The transition has been good, I was deputy chief for four years and acting chief since November, and now I'm officially chief," said Byrne.

As chief of TSD, Byrne's primary responsibility is to ensure the Corps meets its commitments in regard to cost, schedule and quality of the products and services they provide to their customers. His leadership philosophy is to equip his division team with the resources they need to perform their mission, and then empower them to work at a high level.

"Matt Byrne is an exceptional leader and a very detailed-oriented professional," says 17-year Corps veteran and co-worker Cheryl Fromme. "I think those traits, along with his wonderful sense of humor and Bostonian accent will serve him well as the new chief."

Byrne's career has been highlighted with many memories, promotions, opportunities and projects, but the one thing that has kept him at the Corps for 32 years are the people.

"I thank our employees here for being consummate public servants, for giving back to the citizens of Virginia, and for serving the nation and the U.S. Army," said Byrne.

06/08/2010 - NORFOLK, Va. — A living history encampment will take place at historic Fort Norfolk June 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. as the 2nd Virginia Regiment and 20th US Regiment re-enact life during the War of 1812.

Stepping through Fort Norfolk's arched entryway, visitors will be transported to another era as they have the opportunity to see military demonstrations of musket and artillery firing, marching and drilling.

The fort's four-acre site overlooks the Elizabeth River and includes earthwork embankments, ramparts, a dungeon, officers' quarters, powder magazine, barracks, and guardhouse with most structures dating back to 1810.

Originally built of earthen walls with wooden and some brick supports, Fort Norfolk is the last remaining of 19 harbor-front forts authorized in 1794 by President George Washington.

The fort helped protect Norfolk during the War of 1812. In the Civil War, Confederate forces seized the fort and used its magazine to supply the CSS Virginia (Merrimack) during its battle with the USS Monitor. In 1862 the fort was recaptured by the Union Army and used as a prison. Later it was an ordnance depot for the Navy. In 1923 the fort was occupied by the Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which still owns Fort Norfolk. The Norfolk Historical Society began making restorations to the fort in 1991.

Members of the public are invited to attend the June 19 encampment, hosted by the Norfolk Historical Society. The encampment will provide attendees with the opportunity to take a step back in time and learn about the victory at the Battle of Craney Island on June 22, 1813 in addition to the extensive history of Fort Norfolk. Self-guided tours of Fort Norfolk are available during the week.

NOTE TO VISITORS AND PARTICIPANTS: Attendees are permitted to park in the lot adjacent to Norfolk District's guard house and gate, located in the Ghent section of Norfolk at 803 Front Street. Visitors parking in Norfolk District's lot will sign in at the guard house and receive a Fort Norfolk tri-fold brochure.

06/10/2010 - PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Employees from the Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers answered the call to restore and protect the Chesapeake Bay.

Outfitted with sunscreen, bug spray and work gloves, 41 district employees braved a heat index of more than 100 degrees to keep Virginia waterways clean by participating in the 22nd Annual Clean the Bay Day June 5.

Clean the Bay Day is a statewide initiative organized by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, in conjunction with municipalities, businesses and government agencies working together to restore the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams. Every year since 1989, thousands of citizens throughout the Commonwealth have dedicated their time to clear litter from waterways.

Norfolk District employees volunteered three hours of their time Saturday morning to remove debris from the shorelines of the Craney Island Dredged Material Management Area, or CIDMMA, which is operated and maintained by the district. CIDMMA is a 2,500-acre confined dredged material disposal site on the north side of Portsmouth, Va. It serves as an economical and environmentally sustainable repository for material dredged within the federal waterways of the Hampton Roads harbor.

"I'm excited that we had a record number of employees come out to Craney Island to participate and spruce up the site this year," said Kristen Donofrio, biological scientist here and zone captain for the district's team of volunteers.

According to data collection sheets provided to Donofrio, 9,320 pounds of trash was removed from CIDMMA's shoreline, a majority of which included plastic and Styrofoam items, such as bottles, bags, wrappers, crab pot buoys and miscellaneous nautical debris.

Along with employees on-site at CIDMMA, members of the district's survey and navigation support teams patrolled area waterways using a small skiff and the district's patrol boat HARRELL. These vessels picked up floating debris that could potentially damage vessels in addition to collecting 450 pounds of trash.

Some unusual items found by district employees included a decoy duck, a bra, pizza delivery carrier, expired military identification, credit cards, portable toilet door, bowling ball and a periscope.

The nearly 10,000 pounds of trash collected by Norfolk District is part of the 177,577 pounds collected by 6,100 Virginia volunteers, who were dispersed between 242 sites with one common goal in mind – a cleaner, more wholesome Chesapeake Bay.

"Chesapeake Bay Foundation truly values the great partnership we have with the Corps for Clean the Bay Day," said Christy Everett, director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation office in Hampton Roads. "By cleaning the huge Craney Island site, Army Corps of Engineers staff are doing a tremendous service for the community, while improving the health and appearance of our waterways."

06/14/2010 - PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation will be hosting an anniversary celebration June 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. of the victory of American forces over British troops at the Battle of Craney Island.

Militia re-enactors, local historians, naval exhibits and children's activities are included in the program, scheduled to take place at the Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, land that figured prominently in the 1813 battle that raged 137 years ago.

On hand for the day will be re-enactors from the 2nd Virginia Regiment Militia and the 20th U.S. Infantry. Both will demonstrate musket firing and will talk with visitors about the life of Virginia soldiers during the War of 1812. Local historians will address the context of the battle and relate it to other battles waged during what many describe as the "the second American Revolution." The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum will also exhibit displays and maps, and will engage children in interactive crafts of the period.

Boy Scout Troop 219 will provide the honor guard during opening and closing ceremonies during the event, which happens to fall on Father's Day.

"We think a trip to Hoffler Creek will make a great Fathers Day gift," says Randi Strutton, executive director of the non-profit foundation. "It's a chance to enjoy the outdoors, to learn a little history and to exercise the imagination — all for free! What dad wouldn't love that?"

Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve is a site on the National Park Service's Star-Spangled Banner Geo-Caching Trail and in line to join the National Star-Spangled Banner Trail, now limited to sites only in Maryland. A state historical marker at the gate of the preserve commemorates the Battle of Craney Island in the war that inspired The National Anthem and that secured America's independence from England.

Visitors planning to attend the free event at the 142-acre wildlife preserve are advised to wear shoes and socks, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.

For more information about Hoffler Creek programs and kayak rentals, contact the foundation at 757-686-8684, E-mail at hofflercreek@hofflercreek.org, or go online by visiting www.hofflercreek.org.

06/17/2010 - WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced today it has suspended the use of Nationwide Permit 21 (NWP 21) in the Appalachian region of six states.

NWP 21 is used to authorize discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States for surface coal mining activities. The suspension is effective immediately and applies to the Appalachian region of Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

NWP 21 continues to be available in other regions of the country.

The suspension in Appalachia will remain in effect until the Corps takes further action on NWP 21 or until NWP 21 expires on March 18, 2012. While the suspension is in effect, individuals who propose surface coal mining projects that involve discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States will have to obtain Department of the Army authorization under the Clean Water Act, through the Individual Permit process. The individual permit evaluation procedure provides increased public involvement in the permit evaluation process, including an opportunity for public comment on individual projects.

On June 11, 2009, the U.S. Department of the Army, U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding with each agency agreeing to work together to reduce the adverse environmental impacts of surface coal mining activities in the Appalachian region. As a part of the MOU, the Corps agreed to issue a public notice to seek comment on the proposed action to modify NWP 21 to preclude its use in the Appalachian region.

On July 15, 2009, a Federal Register notice was published soliciting public comment on the Corps' proposal to modify NWP 21. The notice also proposed to suspend NWP 21 in order to provide more immediate environmental protection while the longer-term process of modification is fully evaluated. The comment period was extended in response to many requests, and public hearings were conducted in October 2009 in each of the six affected states. Approximately 6,000 individuals attended the public hearings and about 400 individuals provided oral testimony. The Corps received approximately 23,000 comments during the comment period that concluded on October 26, 2009, of which 1,750 were substantive comments that were nearly evenly divided for and against the proposed modification and suspension actions.

The Corps determined after a thorough review and consideration of comments that continuing use of NWP 21 in this region may result in more than minimal impacts to aquatic resources. Activities that result in more than minimal impacts to the aquatic environment must be evaluated in accordance with individual permit procedures. Therefore, NWP 21 has been suspended in this region and coal mining activities impacting waters of the U.S. in this region will be evaluated in accordance with individual permit procedures.

NWP 21 verifications provided in writing by the Corps to mining companies before today's suspension will continue to be valid until the NWP expires on March 18, 2012. Modification of NWP 21 will continue to be evaluated and a decision on this proposal will be made before NWP 21 expires.

Five pending NWP 21 requests are currently being processed in the Appalachian region affected by suspension of NWP 21. Corps districts will contact these applicants to discuss the process to submit individual permit applications for these activities. If applicants submit individual permit requests for these activities, the Corps districts will prioritize the evaluation of these applications. The Corps will work with the applicants and other interested parties to address and resolve substantive concerns and make final permit decisions as expeditiously as possible.

The Corps' decision will be published in the June 18, 2010, edition of the Federal Register. A copy of the notice, FAQs and the decision document will be posted on the Corps' Web site at http://www.usace.army.mil/CECW/Pages/nnpi.aspx.

06/18/2010 - WASHINGTON — William (Bill) Sorrentino Jr., deputy district engineer of Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), was presented a Lifetime Achievement Award in April, at the 2010 Career Program 18 (Engineers & Scientist – Construction) Annual Training workshop held in San Antonio, Texas.

Lt. Gen. Robert L. Van Antwerp, commanding general, USACE, presented the award to Sorrentino at the annual training workshop, held March 30 through April 1. The workshop brought a wide diversity of leaders and practitioners within the career program together to learn, share best business practices and "chart the path to greatness," according to Van Antwerp.

As USACE functional chief of CP-18, the chief of engineers may choose each year to confer an award in a special category of service. These discretionary awards are not competed and are based on involvement in the career program goals and objectives, impact on the workforce and enduring contributions.

"For 15 years, Sorrentino has worked steadfastly to improve intern programs and training, and continues to be a proactive contributor to the overall success of the career program," said Van Antwerp. "He is without a doubt one of the most respected spokespersons for our program and serves as a model for other leaders within CP-18."

According to the chief of engineers, more than 220 senior leaders, training coordinators, activity career program managers, supervisors, interns, human resource personnel and workforce development specialists attended what is considered one of the most successful CP-18 workshops to date.

"I was especially pleased to note that we had several attendees from Installation Management Command, the Army Network Enterprise Technology Command, the Army Medical Command, the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management and representatives from career programs 16 (Engineers & Scientists – Non Construction) and 34 (Information Mission Area) join us this year," said Van Antwerp. "Often we get so involved in the mission that we overlook taking the time to have conversations, ask questions and learn from each other."

"I am honored to receive this prestigious award," said Sorrentino. "My time serving on the CP-18 Career Planning Board has been both personally and professionally fulfilling. Spending time with other dedicated leaders on the Board, all focused on growing our employees, is a highlight in my career. We all need to get involved and make a difference!"

06/10/2010 - FORT LEE, Va. — Celebration was in the air at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Fort Lee Garrison Consolidated Dining Facility June 9. The new dining facility will serve as a joint facility for all branches of the armed forces serving at Fort Lee.

The cafeteria opens up to several lines serving a variety of foods including pizza, salad and desert. This new dining facility will accommodate for the increase of airmen and sailors scheduled to train at Fort Lee. Funding for the new facility fell under the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure, or BRAC.

According to Headquarters of the Department of the Army, "BRAC is a means by which the Department of Defense (DoD) reconfigures its infrastructure into one where operational capacity is optimized for both warfighting capability and efficiency, and joint activity opportunities are aggressively pursued."

The work taking place at Fort Lee is part of DoD's efforts to reconfigure its infrastructure and to pursue joint activities. The dining facility, which has been open since June 1, is equipped to feed 800 service members per meal every 90 minutes. Food is served buffet-style, similar to a college cafeteria. It is also intended to be a gathering place for group activities.

"This is probably going to be one of the first dining facilities in the Army that will have all the services together working under the same roof and eating in the same facility," said Johnnie Durant, installation food program manager, Fort Lee.

Fred Stokes, former National Football League defensive end, was the guest speaker during the ribbon cutting ceremony.

"This is a great facility, when the military has someone who is a possible recruit they should bring them to this dining facility; showing them where they will be spending 20 to 30 minutes per meal every day." said Stokes. "It's an honor to be here today. I'm always very grateful to the men and women who proudly serve. When I travel I like to always thank them for doing what they do."

06/23/2010 - CHESAPEAKE, Va. — More than 250 Norfolk District employees and their families gathered June 17 for the annual Engineer's Day at the Great Bridge Reservation in Chesapeake. The Norfolk District has been celebrating Engineer's Day for more than 35 years.

The day began with a retiree breakfast hosted by Norfolk District Commander Col. Andrew Backus. More than 25 retirees -- who collectively had more than 700 years of service to the Corps -- attended.

"I'm here to see the people I used to work with and they look good for being old geezers," Jim Walsh said with a laugh. Walsh served with the Corps for 34 years and retired as deputy chief of engineering.

Following the breakfast, district employees began to arrive, and most of the retirees stayed for the duration of the event to talk about Corps projects they had worked on and meet the project managers who are overseeing those projects today. Colonel Backus, who has been with the district since June 2009, mentioned that last year's Engineer's Day was the first district event he attended. He then continued by congratulating everyone for a great year of hard work.

"It's right around the time of the Army and Engineer's birth, it's a time to reflect on our heritage and the past year," Backus said.

General George Washington appointed Col. Richard Gridley as the first chief of engineers on June 16, 1775. On March 16, 1802, the U.S. Army officially established the Army Corps of Engineers.

The district's welfare council organized the annual fete, and funding to pay for the food, beverages, DJ and door prizes was raised through bake sales and parking spot raffles. Welfare council members balance their responsibilities at work with volunteer welfare council activities.

"There was a lot of work to make this happen, but we have a great team," said Jennifer Heuer, president of the welfare council. "The staff at US Facility (Great Bridge Reservation) was also a great help, along with logistics," she added.

A great atmosphere was created at the park as music of every genre was played by DJ and district employee, Carlton Lillard. Lunch was catered by Alfs Café, and included fried chicken, hot dogs, pulled pork barbecue, green beans, hush puppies and macaroni and cheese. The desert table was overflowing with brownies, cupcakes, pudding, cookies and more. After lunch, people teamed up to play volleyball, horseshoes and kickball.

"It's great to take a break from our normal day of work; this event also gives me and other employees the opportunity to meet people who are new to the district," said Keith Lockwood. "I also enjoyed beating the interns in kickball."

There has been a competitive kickball game between the summer interns and full-time employees for several years. Although the full-time employees have always won, the interns were able to put up a great fight with a final score of 6-4. There was also a competitive volleyball game with the executive staff winning by two points in the third game.

This year's Engineer's Day proved to be a great way to kick-start the summer. At every corner of the park, people were seen smiling and laughing as they socialized, reflected and participated in summer activities.

06/24/2010 - NORFOLK, Va. — The sixth annual Safety & Health Week, held June 14 – 18, featured activities including an interactive nutrition presentation, blood drive, lunch time walk, first aid training class and health fair.

The kickoff event Monday, June 14 featured a presentation from Edwina Forrest and Valerie Lewis, both registered dieticians employed by the Office of Food Services for Virginia Beach City Public Schools. Forrest supervises 21 of the city's 82 food service operations and Lewis acts as nutrition and training coordinator. During the kickoff event, attendees learned how to read ingredient labels to make nutritious food choices and they also had the opportunity to sample healthier foods such as trail mix and baked snacks.

Following Monday's kick-off presentation, employees were invited to donate blood aboard the American Red Cross mobile. Safety Week Committee member Nora Batten reports that the employees exceeded the goal of collecting 25 pints, as 28 pints were collected.

In tune with the focus on nutrition and exercise, district commander Col. Andrew Backus led a half-hour lunch time walk along the Atlantic City Elizabeth River Trail Tuesday, June 15.

Also on June 15, Herb Maher, City of Virginia Beach safety specialist, provided two four-hour long first aid classes. Family members and friends of the district were also invited to attend the classes to learn first aid, CPR and automated external defibrillator procedures.

"Always remember it's better to do something than nothing," Maher stressed to a roomful of inquisitive and attentive participants who were very active during the hands-on portion of the class.

Each participant received a card, valid for two years, certifying their completion of the National Safety Council CPR course.

Wednesday's events included a health fair hosted by the Fort Norfolk Chapter of Federally Employed Women (FEW). Medical professionals from Ghent Chiropractic, Optima Health and Sentara Healthcare were on hand June 17 to provide free health screenings and counseling related to blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes risk, body mass index, tobacco cessation and chiropractic therapy.

"Every time FEW hosts a health fair, we attract a larger and larger number of employees that take advantage of the opportunity to speak to health care professionals and get confidential screenings. We are definitely happy that people are recognizing the importance of their health," said Melinda Worrell, president of the Fort Norfolk Chapter of FEW.

In a memorandum to the district, Col. Backus asked all employees to take the time to closely reflect on how they can improve personal safety and health within their offices, work environments, homes and leisure activities.

"Safety is everyone's responsibility. We have to live safety, we have to think safety, we have to practice safety, and we have to keep safety on our minds day in and day out," said Backus.

06/29/2010 - PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Effective immediately, the Craney Island Dredged Material Management Area, or CIDMMA, is implementing a new policy for facility visitation.

In an effort to promote safety and accident prevention, while also accommodating landing zones used during military flight operations, CIDMMA will accept requests for authorized visitation.

CIDMMA, operated and managed by the Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, reopened to visitors on a limited basis April 2.

Authorized visitation of Craney Island includes educational activities arranged by public or private academic institutions, environmental and natural resource organizations, birdwatching clubs and other groups established to study nature.

Because of its proximity to the Hampton Roads federal waterways, Craney Island offers a low-cost method to dispose of materials dredged during harbor deepening and maintenance dredging projects. In addition to providing a cost-effective alternative for dredged material, Craney Island stimulates ideal breeding conditions for bird species that are endangered, threatened or of special concern.

Requests for authorized visitation should be submitted to the chief of the Craney Island project office at least two weeks prior to the date of the intended visit. The date and times available for authorized visitation will be determined based on site conditions, construction activity and other operational factors. In most cases, authorized visits will be arranged for weekends to avoid conflict with daily construction operations.

School groups, organizations, associations and clubs interested in visiting Craney Island are encouraged to call CIDMMA's project office at (757) 484-1021 to arrange a visit.

07/01/2010 - FORT MONROE, Va. — A weeklong archaeological dig conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers here June 8-12 yielded no evidence of a contraband slave cemetery that's been a topic of speculation for years.

The archaeologists, led by Dr. Michael Hargrave from the Engineer Research Development Center's Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, focused their attention on several anomalies identified by ground-penetrating radar during a site survey in February.

Hargrave and his team, Dr. Jarrod Burks, director of geophysical survey, and Jeff Dilyard, staff archaeologist, both with Ohio Valley Archaeology, Inc., focused their efforts on determining if graves, human remains and artifacts were present in five trenches that included several anomalies – discolored areas in the ground that the team believed had the highest potential of being graves.

The effort is part of the Army's responsibility under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, said Paul Presenza, a cultural resource specialist with the fort's Department of Public Works. As the Army works to close Fort Monroe, officials must work with consulting parties to evaluate the potential effects of the closure on historic properties and define steps to avoid, reduce or mitigate harmful effects.

Thirty-two consulting parties, including the Contraband Historical Society, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources and Preservation Virginia worked with the Army to determine what actions can be taken regarding Fort Monroe's historic properties – such as the geophysical and archaeological search for a possible contraband cemetery.

As the Corps conducted archival research, the focus narrowed to a field adjacent to the post's airfield, now a place where Soldiers and their families practice their golf swing and walk their dogs. The area served as the post cemetery until the late 1890s and, once graves were removed to cemeteries in nearby Hampton, Va., later served as living and operations areas during World War I and II, Presenza said.

Throughout the week, Hargrave, Burks and Presenza watched for signs of artifacts as Addam Weatherly, a deckhand with the Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' navigation support team, excavated the upper layers of the trenches – modern-day dredged sand fill -- inch by inch.

As Weatherly's excavation work neared the World War I habitation layer, a visible dark line about 36 inches below the modern surface, scientists moved in with shovels and trowels and explored the trench floors by removing layers a centimeter at a time until they hit the water table. Then they sifted through bucket after bucket of material at sorting tables erected near the trenches.

"Archaeology is often long periods of boredom punctuated by a few exciting moments … followed by more boredom," Burks often said as the scientists clustered around a potential find only to return to the routine moments later.

One by one, each of the anomalies revealed themselves as something other than graves – mostly pits of discarded building material, such as wood, bricks and the occasional piece of glass. Two spent .45 caliber bullet casings were the only signs that the dig occurred on a historic military installation.

Hargrave will submit a report detailing the geophysical and archaeological findings of the contraband cemetery investigation to officials at Fort Monroe in August.

07/08/2010 - PORTSMOUTH, Va. — U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District (NAO) and the Virginia Port Authority (VPA) will host a contractor open house Thursday, July 22 from 8:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center in Portsmouth, Va.

Contractors, subcontractors and suppliers are encouraged to attend the event to learn details about the 522-acre Craney Island Eastward Expansion project and the bidding process.

A project of dual purpose, the eastward expansion will extend the life of Craney Island as a dredged material management area and provide land for construction of a new marine terminal. The multi-million dollar marine construction project calls for the expertise of firms specializing in dredging, earthwork, port construction, in addition to resources provided by aggregate suppliers of rock and sand.

During the contractor open house, representatives from NAO and VPA will provide project updates, including an overview of the selected design, material quantities, permits and project schedule.

The initial construction contract, which includes construction of the containment cell cross dikes, will be advertised this summer and is expected to be awarded early fall.

Additional contracts expected for bid this year include the first environmental mitigation project and naval pipeline relocation. The mitigation project includes the creation of 10 acres of wetlands from an upland area along Paradise Creek in Portsmouth, Va. The Navy fuel and oil waste pipeline relocation calls for the installation of approximately 10,000 linear feet of an eight- and 10-inch steel pipeline, 800 linear feet of which require underwater construction.

Contractors, subcontractors and suppliers interested in learning about immediate and long-term contracting opportunities are required to register for the open house individually at this link.

07/12/2010 - NORFOLK — This fall Hampton Roads high school students will be exposed to a new side of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as interns launch an initiative that will expose students to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, or STEM.

The Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's high school outreach program is designed to educate students about the benefits of pursuing STEM-related academic studies, including research opportunities, jobs, internships and higher education.

The program is a comprehensive effort cultivating high school students to STEM and providing guidance from the perspective of district interns who have already completed the program, said Danit Carrier Tal, project manager for the new initiative.

Along with a team of a dozen up-and-coming district leaders, Carrier Tal has worked the past few months to lay the groundwork for the program under the direction of seasoned leaders at the district. One of which is Keith Lockwood, chief of the technical support section, who launched an integrated internship program in January 2008 to recruit student interns at the professional, graduate and under-graduate levels.

"I am thrilled at the opportunity to help the team of interns launch their high school outreach program. These young leaders, who all started off as a part of the integrated internship program, are definitely taking the district to new heights when it comes to growing our connection to younger generations," said Lockwood.

Expanding the recruitment and hiring processes of the integrated internship program, the newly developed high school outreach program is a means of exposing local high school students to STEM. A tri-fold brochure created by the team outlines high school level science, technology, engineering and mathematics courses to help prepare students for college-level courses or the workforce.

The goal of the high school outreach program, unlike the internship program, is to increase the number of high school students with interest and competencies in STEM, which may ultimately increase the number of college graduates and professionals with the technical competencies that comprise the Corps of Engineers' workforce.

Carrier Tal is a prime example of a success from the district's internship program. Since joining the Corps of Engineers', Carrier Tal led a successful initiative that resulted in Norfolk District being chosen by Inside Business as the 2010 Best Place to Work in Hampton Roads award. A similar initiative led by Carrier Tal, who works as a management analyst with the engineering branch, led to two environmental sustainability awards for the district from the City of Norfolk.

Another district success story who notes the importance of STEM class offerings in high school settings is Drew Johnson.

"I went to Cox High School in Virginia Beach and they offered basic technical drawing, which led to my enrollment in an architecture class as well as an engineering class. It was in these classes when I realized I wanted to be a structural engineer. Here I am now, working in the structural section at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers," said Johnson.

To get the new outreach initiative started, Johnson and his fellow team members are scheduled to make a presentation at Nauticus, a maritime-themed science center and museum in Norfolk July 13. Area students attending the museum's water scholars oceanography camp will receive a 90 minute presentation by district interns working in diverse STEM-related jobs, including staff accountant, environmental scientist, program analyst and engineer-in-training.

In August, team members will follow up with area high school principals and guidance counselors to arrange similar presentations for students attending Chesapeake, Suffolk, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News and York County schools. Each team member serves as a point of contact for specific school districts.

"We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to provide guidance and mentorship to students at a very critical time in their lives as they make decisions about joining the workforce or going to college," said Carrier Tal.

Engineer-in-training and fellow team member Alicia Farrow echoes Carrier Tal's sentiments. "Knowledge about STEM programs is extremely important because it not only informs students about science, math, engineering and technology, but the program also keeps those students who already have a passion in one or more of those fields a career choice and opens the door for career opportunities."

07/15/2010 - NORFOLK — The Hampton Roads Navigation Summit video "Full Potential" has won a prestigious Award of Merit in the public service programming category from The Accolade Competition.

Written, shot and edited by Patrick Bloodgood, a Norfolk District public affairs specialist, "Full Potential" was produced for the Hampton Roads Navigation Summit to raise awareness about the initiatives that will keep the Port of Hampton Roads viable and economically competitive in the future.

"Most people do not know that one out of every 10 jobs in Virginia is tied to the Port," said David White, vice president of the Virginia Maritime Association. "This video does a very good job of telling the story of how the Port of Hampton Roads can contribute even more to the regional and national economies and what will be needed to achieve our full potential."

The Accolade Competition is an international video award competition honoring those who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity and recognizes those who produce "standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change."

"The Accolade is not an easy award to win, entries are received from around the world," said Thomas Baker, Ph.D., who chairs The Accolade Competition. "The goal of 'The Accolade' is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve."

Film and television industry professionals judged "Full Potential," which competed against other videos from around the world.

According to Bloodgood, the entire production was done using in-house equipment and workforce, and used volunteer voice talent as well as subject matter experts in the compilation of the video.

"It is a big honor to know something I created won on an international competition level," said Bloodgood. Bloodgood also praised U.S. Navy Cmdr. Cornelius Reed, who performed the voice over work for the project.

"Commander Reed was great; his voice fit perfectly with the project, and I can't say enough how appreciative I am that he came in voluntarily to help us out," said Bloodgood.

The video can be viewed on both the Norfolk District's YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-wmsiVEm60 or on the Vimeo Channel at http://www.vimeo.com/10578804.

07/15/2010 - VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers captured the Best Place to Work in Hampton Roads honors by Inside Business, the Hampton Roads Business Journal, in a ceremony here July 12.

More than 50 companies competed in three categories (small-, medium-, and large-business). A panel of judges named the Norfolk District Best Place to Work in the large business category as well as the overall Best Place to Work in Hampton Roads.

Colonel Andrew Backus, district commander, and several district employees attended the awards luncheon and accepted the honor on behalf of "Team Norfolk".

"The Norfolk District is the kind of organization we are proud to recognize," said Carol Lichti, editor of Inside Business. "We are in a recession and this is a good way to show our community the value of what businesses are doing to keep the economy moving. The Corps is leading by example and very engaged with the community and the well-being of their employees. That is what this award is all about," Lichti added.

This is the eighth year Inside Business has honored companies in Hampton Roads. How a company treats its most valuable asset – its employees – is a key element in the judging process. Employee survey input is another.

"Norfolk is a great district, mainly because of the people here. Our team members are dedicated, enthusiastic and talented people who stay actively engaged to support the Corps' mission -- not only in the Commonwealth of Virginia, but overseas well," Backus said.

The Norfolk District is responsible for military and civil construction projects, maintaining navigable waterways, protecting the environment such as coastlines, storm damage reduction, environmental restoration, hurricane and beach erosion protection, and infrastructure design and build in overseas locations such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

Along with a spectacular view of the Norfolk harbor, employees who work at 803 Front Street in Norfolk also find time after work to get together for field trips, camping, canoeing, cookouts and seafood roasts.

"This is a great place to work because of the people. We are a family and care about each other. I believe that is the key ingredient to any winning team," said Danit Carrier Tal, management analyst. Carrier Tal was an intern for four years before joining the Corps team fulltime a year ago.

Of the 404 employees, many have worked with the Corps for 25, 30 and 35 years. There are husbands and wives, parents and their children who work here.

"This is one of the best family-environment organizations I have had the pleasure of working at in my 22 years in the U.S. Army," said Backus. "I'm happy to come to work every day. It's unique to have such a diversified group of professionals -- their can-do attitudes, creativity and mix of seasoned and fresh-out-of-college employees is why we are successful. Knowing we are helping our community is very rewarding," he added.

The district opened its doors for business for the first time in Hampton Roads in 1879. Now headquartered in downtown Norfolk and Fort Norfolk – one of the last remaining harbor forts and recent site of the reenactment of the War of 1812 -- the Norfolk District has 22 field offices, including Fort Belvoir, Va., Fort Lee, Va., Joint Langley-Eustis, Va., and Great Bridge Reservation in Chesapeake, Va.