Media Contact:
Tim Lucas, News Services, 919/515-3470
Michelle Petrovich, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, 202/772-9886

Dec. 12, 2003

Department of Homeland Security, NC State to Announce New Research Initiative

Flanked by uniformed members of the Raleigh Fire Department and leaders from government, industry and education, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology division and North Carolina State University will announce a new research initiative at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at NC State’s College of Textiles.

Dr. Charles McQueary, Under Secretary of Science and Technology, will be joined by U.S. Rep. David Price and NC State Chancellor Marye Anne Fox at the announcement. Raleigh Fire Chief Earl Fowler and members of his department, outfitted in bunker gear, also will be on hand.

Media coverage of the event is welcomed.

Immediately following the announcement, the media is invited to join McQueary on a tour of NC State’s Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC). The tour is expected to start at about 10 a.m. and conclude before 10:30. It will include demonstrations of Pyroman, a computer-controlled mannequin that bursts into flames to test fire-retardant fabrics, and other highly visual testing devices.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology division serves as the primary research and development arm of the Department, utilizing the nation’s scientific and technological resources to provide federal, state and local officials with the technology and capabilities to protect the homeland.

NC State’s College of Textiles is located on Centennial Campus. Parking is available in the large lot at the side of the college, along Research Drive, or in the small lot in the front of the college.

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Note to media: Media must present valid press credentials. If you have any questions, call Tim Lucas at 919/515-3470 or Michelle Petrovich at 202/772-9886.