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Volume 10, Issue 8
August 2008
Glenn Rewards Exemplary Employee Efforts
On July 29 Center Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr. and Deputy Director Ramon (Ray) Lugo led coworkers, families and friends in saluting the center's "Best of the Best" among researchers, engineers, technicians and support assistants at the first annual Center Awards Ceremony. The honorees were nominated by their peers, supervisors and contractor managers for their exemplary efforts in support of the center's missions."We are extremely proud of your accomplishments, dedication and sacrifice that help us (Glenn) continue to be successful. We are leaders in all phases of NASA missions with an opportunity to have a larger role in the future," Dr. Whitlow stated. "We also want to recognize your families, for none of this could be possible without their support."
The following employees were recognized for going above and beyond in the support of the center's missions:
Pictured, left to right, Dr. Whitlow, Dr. Miller and Lugo.
Abe Silverstein MedalDr. Robert A. Miller
For research contributions to thermal and environmental barrier coating development and testing, which have enabled significant and practical advancements in turbine engine technology.
Pictured, left to right, Dr. Whitlow, McQuaid and Lugo.
Craftsmanship AwardsElizabeth A. McQuaid - Manufacturing Technology
For innovativeness and craftmanship in work related to the development of wireless communication and sensing electronics for harsh environments.
Pictured, left to right, Dr. Whitlow, Rivera and Lugo.
Ricky N. Rivera - Assembly and Buildup TechnologiesFor innovative design and fabrication of rachet-driven turnbuckles for adjustment of the T-700 variable geometry guide vane linkages.
Pictured, left to right, Dr. Whitlow with PUMA team members Dr. Dietrich, Lewis, Juergens, Lichter, Easton, Diedrick and Deputy Director Lugo.
Steven V. Szabo Engineering Excellence AwardPortable Unit for Metabolic Analysis Design (PUMA) Team: Dr. Daniel L. Dietrich, Jeffrey R. Juergens, Michael J. Lewis, Michael J. Lichter, Dale M. Diedrick and John W. Eastonfrom the National Center for Space Exploration Research
For demonstrated technical excellence, innovation and determination to develop a unique capability for measuring the health of astronauts during long-duration space flight.
Center Director Whitlow with Distinguished Paper co-authors Dr. Eldridge, Bencic and Dr. Spuckler and Deputy Director Lugo.
Distinguished Publication AwardCo-authors Dr. Jeffrey I. Eldridge, Timothy J. Bencic, Dr. Charles M. Spuckler, and Jogender Singh and Douglas E. Wolfe from Penn State University
For the publication titled "Delamination-Indicating Thermal Barrier Coatings using YSZ:Eu Sublayers," which presents a novel strategy and proof-of-concept for producing thermal barrier coatings that are self-indicating for coating longevity.
Center Director Whitlow with Redhouse and Deputy Director Lugo.
Diversity Leadership AwardRaquel L. Redhouse
For providing leadership in promoting diversity and making significant strides in building relationships with diverse audiences.
Support Assistant/Clerical Award
 Parker |
 Rakic |
 Roser |
 Terbrack |
 Waeltz |
 Clevenger |
 Kulik |
 Phillips |
 Saylor |
 Viancourt |
Patricia A. Parker
For superior executive management support, utilizing innovative professional means in ensuring NASA Glenn’s outstanding reputation.
Desa Rakic
For outstanding support to the Aeropropulsion Division management in successful accomplishment of the division goals.
Kathryn M. Roser
For continued support and dedication for the Office of the Chief Financial Officer.
Suzanne L. Terbrack
For consistent, exemplary support for the Office of Human Capital Management in assuring timely, accurate and productive relationships throughout several major change processes.
Mary Jo Waeltz
For Outstanding Human Capital support for Workforce Transformation Initiatives, 2007 Center Reorganization and e-OPF implementation.
Support Service Contractor Staff:
Harold Stinger, chief executive officer of Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Inc. (SGTI) joined Center Director Whitlow and Deputy Director Lugo in presenting the awards to SGTI employees:
Debra K. Clevenger
For outstanding working relationships with GRC staff and support to the Risk Workshops and the National Research Council review.
Diane Kulik
For providing excellent professional customer service in the areas of travel management, meeting preparations and the development of complex spreadsheets.
Cynthia L. Phillips
For outstanding dedicated service in providing logistical coordination between Metrology and GRC technical Staff.
Mary Ann Saylor
For providing excellent support to the success of the CONNECT NASA Research Announcement initiative.
Dorothy E. Viancourt
For continued excellent support in managing all chemical and ODIN catalog purchases for the Center.
The Robert E. Fails Award
Pictured, left, to right, Center Director Whitlow, NEBA's Stewart, Parker, NEBA's Young and Deputy Director Lugo.
Michael Stewart, chairman of the NASA Employees Benefit Association (NEBA) from NASA Johnson Space Center, attended the festivities to make a special announcement and presentation on behalf of the NEBA Board of Directors. The Board voted to rename its highest award in honor of Glenn's former Associate Center Director Robert E. Fails, who as NEBA's longest serving chairman made numerous improvements leading to reduced rates, increased coverage and expanded benefits for NASA employees and their families. NEBA board member Gwen Young, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, joined Stewart in presenting the first Robert E. Fails Award for Exceptional Service to the NASA Employees Benefit Association to Patricia Parker, executive management support assistant to Associate Director Vernon (Bill) Wessel. Parker previously supported Fails for 13 years, prior to his retirement.Photos by NASA/Marvin Smith (WYLE)
By S. Jenise Veris, SGT Inc.
Asst. Editor
Taylor Takes the Helm of PBS Deputy Director
 Taylor |
After serving all but 4 of his 18-year NASA career at Kennedy Space Center, Taylor eagerly assumed the position of manager of the Spacecraft Propulsion Research Facility (B-2) at Plum Brook Station in June 2007. In addition to this role, Taylor now takes over the helm of PBS deputy director. He is responsible for both the people and resources at PBS to ensure they operate safely, reliably and effectively, and coordinates PBS operations with offices centerwide. Taylor also serves as acting director for PBS when Director David Stringer is offsite.
"Although I was recruited to work for Kennedy right out of college, I've been around the agency and am familiar with the various facilities," said Taylor. "Plum Brook is one of the agency's crown jewels with its unique facilities and capabilities. I believe it has a bright future and I look forward to working with the PBS team to return it to a level of prominence within the agency and the region."
Previous experience as the program and facility manager for the Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC) at NASA Kennedy make Taylor uniquely qualified for his new position. The ATDC is a large-scale hazardous test facility where technologists and operators can perform ground and flight test demonstration activities. He managed technology development projects related to electrostatic shielding of spacecraft and in situ resource utilization on the Moon and Mars.
Taylor's tenure at Kennedy provided numerous opportunities of leadership in space launch and testing. At Marshall Space Flight Center, he worked as the Kennedy resident manager serving as the operations advisor to the Advanced Space Transportation, 2nd Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle and Next Generation Launch Technology programs. He also served as the flight systems manager for the Mars Ascent Vehicle Booster System and as project manager/technical lead for Kennedy's Mars Sounding Rocket Project. The project was a joint initiative between Kennedy and the Spaceport Florida Authority to design, build and test a small rocket capable of launching a payload from the surface of Mars utilizing in situ resources. As a result of this effort, Taylor expanded his outreach in the community by working with the state of Florida on launching large sounding rockets at various public and educational events around the country.
Taylor has earned several significant awards, including a Turning Goals Into Reality Award, a Silver Snoopy, a Space Flight Awareness Honoree award, two NASA Certificates of Commendation and an Exploration Appreciation Award.
Taylor is a 1989 graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. He currently lives in Norwalk, Ohio with his wife Kimberly and their three children.
"Dave Taylor's career across NASA, at both Kennedy and Marshall, as well as his extensive experience in both space launch and test, makes him extremely valuable to both Glenn, in general, and Plum Brook Station, in particular," said Stringer. "This Toledo native continues to make us proud."
By S. Jenise Veris, SGT Inc.
Asst. Editor
Hairston Bids Farewell to His NASA Family
John M. Hairston Jr., former director of Glenn's External Programs Directorate, bid a fond farewell to his NASA Family on June 30 after 17 years of distinguished NASA service.
Center Director Whitlow presents Hairston several gifts from the Director's Office and Leadership Team, while the evening's Masters of Ceremony George Yarborough and Bob Cerminara look on.
On June 12, the External Programs staff and employees throughout the center gathered at the Visitor Center to offer best wishes to Hairston and his wife Delaney during a cake and punch retirement reception. The auditorium and cakes were decorated in a beach motif simulating an atmosphere of relaxation that awaits Hairston at his retirement getaway, "Divine Intervention," in North Carolina. In addition to several presentations by Glenn senior managers, Hairston was greeted with a heart-warming video of testimonials and well wishes from his staff and friends.The celebration continued on July 11 with a long list of associates from federal, state and local government, NASA and civic organizations presenting numerous pictures, plaques and proclamations to Hairston during a retirement party at La Centre in Westlake. Hairston's friend and mentor, the Honorable Louis Stokes, former U.S. Representative of the 11th Congressional District of Ohio, kicked off the presentations.
Stokes noted Hairston's contributions to the local community during a 25-year career with the Cleveland Metropolitan School System, and service with the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections, the Glenville Development Corporation and Cleveland's Empowerment Zone Initiative. However, Stokes focused most of his accolades on Hairston's role in developing and implementing the Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Aerospace Academy (SEMAA), which he described as "the hottest STEM educational program in the nation."
Deputy Director Ray Lugo and Congressman Stokes lead guests at their table in rousing applause and wave of hands affirming they are part of Hairston's extended family.
A committee representing each of the three Offices Hairston managed -- Educational Programs Office, Community and Media Relations Office, and the Technology Transfer and Partnerships Office-- coordinated both events as well as the videos prepared in collaboration with the Imaging Technology Center that enabled remote individual and club sentiments. Highlights of the evening included the announcement of two scholarships awarded in recognition of Hairston. The awards recognize his commitment to youth development in science and mathematics and support for educational initiatives benefiting Cleveland area youth and their families. The Cleveland chapter of the National Technical Association will sponsor an annual scholarship to N.A.S.A. Project, a 6-week summer program targeting 7th and 8th grade students from Cleveland Metropolitan and Lorain County Schools with math and science deficiencies. Additionally, "the FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Buckeye Regional Planning Committee members, in recognition of John's dedication and support in establishing and sustaining the FIRST Buckeye Regional Robotics Competition, are making $1,000 "Gift of Education" to fund a student scholarship to Cuyahoga Community College in honor of John's retirement."
In addition to the evening's honors, Hairston earned several significant awards throughout his career. They include the Presidential Rank Award, NASA's Exceptional Achievement Medal, Outstanding Leadership Medal and Educational Distinguished Service Award, and the Leadership Cleveland's "Civic Volunteer of The Year" Award.
Hairston on the bike he adopted as his mode of transportation around the center.
During both events, Center Director Dr. Woodrow Whitlow Jr. affirmed Hairston's outstanding outreach and leadership in educational programming. "It's been an honor to have served with John," said Whitlow, during the July 11 event. "He's been a strong advocate for the center making its accomplishments and benefits to the nation well known in the halls of NASA, congress and across the region. While John's contributions to our nation's youth in education are well known -- he is also the brainchild of a recent initiative that will expand SEMAA to the island of the United Arab Emigrates -- making him truly a citizen of the world."
Photos by Tim Dedula, Educational Programs Office.
By S. Jenise Veris, SGT Inc.
Asst. Editor
Retirees and Employees Gather for Reunion and Picnic
Pictured, left to right, are Mary Lester, Logistics and Technical Information Division (LTID), Karin Gornick, Office of Chief Financial Officer; and retiree Frank Bechtel accompanied by his son-in-law.
Generations came together to celebrate NASA's 50th Anniversary on July 17-18. Over 300 retirees returned to Glenn for the Retiree Reunion that concluded with an Employee and Retiree Picnic. Photo by Michelle Murphy, WYLE
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Summer Students Demonstrate Success of NASA Pipeline
Reid works with his mentor, Linda Glover, Office of Human Capital Management. Credit: Doreen B. Zudell (SGTI)
When the school year comes to a close, many students pack away the books and take out their beach towels and sunscreen. For some, however, summer means getting a different kind of education: working at NASA Glenn Research Center.NASA Glenn's Educational Programs Office (EPO) manages many programs that introduce students to exciting career possibilities. These programs allow elementary through college-age children to explore the areas of science, technology, engineering, math and professional administration.
"Our programs are designed to work as an educational pipeline, where we attract students at an early age and offer them age-appropriate internship opportunities as they progress in their yearly studies," explained Jo Ann Charleston, EPO chief. "We hope to engage and prepare today's young minds to lead the nation's laboratories and research centers - including NASA -- for tomorrow."
Over the years, many students have benefited from taking full advantage of the programs and becoming part of the NASA pipeline.
Abundant Opportunities
Robbie Reid, a recent graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy, started interning during his junior year of high school in the former NASA Summer High School Apprenticeship Research Program (SHARP). Reid, a communication studies major, is now enrolled in the Glenn Cooperative (Co-op) Education Program in the Office of Human Capital Management. He continues to return each summer for several different reasons.
"I love it here," Reid said. "It's fun, you meet a lot of people and you never get tired of the work because there are many areas within the center that you can work. Because of my varied internships, I've discovered the area that best suits me."
Reid previously interned in the Aerospace Inlet Branch, Electrochemistry Branch, Flight Space Research Branch and Office of Human Resources. He plans to pursue a master's degree, and hopes to continue his career at NASA after completing his co-op term.
Inspiring Others
Mignosa with N.A.S.A. Project students, left to right, Devonte Williams, William Correra and Perry Bratton Kamfolt Jr. at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School in Cleveland.
Giovanna Mignosa started interning at NASA during her sophomore year of high school in the NASA Plus Program. She also participated in NASA SHARP, Explorer Post 631 (computer technology), and NASA Lewis Educational and Research Collaborative Internship Program (LERCIP) College while attending Ohio University.Mignosa, who interned at NASA for nine years before being hired as a full-time employee working for SGT, Inc. in the EPO, is as enthusiastic as the day she started. She now manages the New Approach to Self Achievement (N.A.S.A) Project, a six-week summer program for middle school students and parents.
"Coordinating this program enables me to expose students to NASA, which has special meaning to me because I was a summer student," Mignosa explained. "Now I can inspire and engage others and feel good about what I do everyday. The more I share my experiences, the more excited I get about what I do."
People Make the Difference
Orlando Antongiorgi, currently a senior at Cleveland State University with a major in electrical engineering, started interning in the NASA pipeline as an East Technical High School (Cleveland, Ohio) student in 1998. Mike Krasowski, Optical Instrumentation and NDE Branch, has mentored Antongiorgi for the past five summers.
"It's nice to have somebody who knows me," Antongiorgi said. "The first summer here, I had an idea to be an electrical engineer but I wasn't sure. Mike gave me crash courses, which helped me during the school year because I had already been exposed to the material through my work with Mike."
In 2001, Antongiorgi, at 16 years of age, put some of these skills to the test when he designed a radiometer circuit to monitor an experiment, the NASA Mars MATE (Mars Array Technology Experiment). Although the Mars Surveyor Lander mission was scrubbed after the failure of the 1998 Mars Polar Lander mission, the MATE experiment, with Antongiorgi's radiometer circuit, remains in storage at NASA Johnson Space Center hopeful for a future mission opportunity.
Left to right, Krasowski; Aaron Joseph, Arctic Slope Regional Corporation; and Antongiorgi perfect a remote monitoring vehicle prototype. Credit: Doreen B. Zudell (SGTI)
Antongiorgi said he has learned more than just engineering tools, however. "Mike taught me the way things go in the real world. It's going to be hard transitioning from a student to a full-time worker, but with Mike's guidance, it will be easier than if I hadn't had him as a mentor," Antongiorgi said. "Mike is an example of the great people here."Although these internships can lead to publications, resume boosters, good pay and even a full time job for students, they attest there is so much more that can be gained through these programs.
Affirms Mignosa, "I've grown both professionally and interpersonally. It's been a journey."
For information about Glenn's summer internship programs, contact Educational Program Specialist Sue Gott, EPO, at 216-433-3833.
By Emily Kennard, LERCIP intern
Technology Transfer and Partnership Office
2008 CFC Calls for Increased Participation
NASA Glenn kicks off its 2008 Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) on September 22. This year's theme "Go the Extra Mile," will call on increased employee participation and a monetary goal of $360,000."While the monetary goal is important to the agencies our donations support, reaching that goal is much more rewarding when we have the participation of many employees across the center," explained CFC 2008 Chair Gloria Richards. "Participating - by volunteering and donating - is a wonderful way to reach out in support of the community."
To increase employee participation, a personalized Glenn video, upgraded web site and a convenient pledging station will be added to this year's CFC, said Co-Chair Rick Reames.
Also new this year, the North Coast Ohio CFC is sponsoring the 2008 Federal Idol. The contest invites federal employees who reside in counties under the North Coast Ohio CFC to compete for the title of 2008 Federal Idol. Glenn's own Paul Senick, Launch Systems Project Office, and Daniel Paxson, Controls and Dynamics Branch, are competing. Both competed earlier this summer and earned a spot in the top 20 finalists. In October, they will compete in another elimination round for the top 10 finalists. Final competitions take place in January. For more information on the contest, visit www.cleveland.feb.gov/idol
Save These Dates!
Kick Off: Monday, September 22
Agency Fair: Monday, September 22
Crusin' & Ice Cream Social: September 18 (rain date September 19)
Basket Raffle: October 31 (Halloween)
CFC Bay: Cancelled - will not be doing this year
Fred Holland, Mechanics and Life Prediction Branch, is Glenn's CFC 2008 Loaned Executive.
h1>NASA 50th Anniversary Gala Set for August 29
Ohio's aerospace community is celebrating NASA's 50 years of inspiration, innovation and discovery with an Anniversary Celebration Gala and Ohio Astronaut Reunion the evening of August 29 at downtown Cleveland's Marriott Key Center. The event begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m., and a program at 8:30 p.m.John H. Glenn, Jr. is the Honorary Chair of the event. Nearly 20 Ohio astronauts are expected to attend. Jay Barbree, NBC News correspondent, is the guest speaker. He will moderate "A Conversation with Ohio's Astronauts." This will be a lively discussion time before the audience.
Attendance will be limited to 600 people. The Ohio Aerospace Institute has already sold over 250 tickets through sponsorships and individual orders. Interest in the event is expected to be high, so those interested in attending should purchase tickets as soon as possible. The deadline is August 15.
Individual tickets are on sale now at www.NASA50thOhioGala.org
The ticket price for this black tie event is $150 per person.
"Yes, If" Boosts Team Spirit and Mission Success
 Tom HartlineSafety and Mission Assurance Director |
If I may use a football analogy: we are the offensive line protecting the backs and receivers (NASA's researchers, engineers, fabricators, welders etc.) so they can reach the end zone (mission goal). It's our job to ensure facilities have the engineering controls necessary and the employees have the knowledge and resources they need to do what they need to do to meet the mission goals safely. When those resources and controls are not in place, it is our job to help find a way to reach those goals safely.
Gone are the days when we acted like referees waiting to throw a flag and stop the play or like coaches on the sideline telling people how to do their jobs. Gone are the fans in the stands that refused to make the hard decisions but criticized the players after the fact. The resource constraints (time, money, personnel and facility) facing projects today require teamwork and creative team thinking to succeed.
We all know that there is nothing less empowering than the word "No." It can stunt a team's creativity, efficiency, and, ultimately, the success of a project. But, "Yes," given irresponsibly, can have serious consequences as well. So, I'd like to suggest a third alternative, "Yes If."
Members of Glenn's SMAD are finding great success operating under the "Yes If" philosophy. In fact, Bryan O'Conner, chief of NASA's SMAD, is so impressed with our success stories that he is disseminating them as "best practices" throughout the agency. Here are two examples as they relate to the Ares IX Upper Stage Simulator:
Yes, we can mount a milling machine on top of a segment, if...
To meet flatness requirements for the flanges, a machine repairman in our Fabrication Shop suggested removing the head of a milling machine and placing it on top of flange to perform the machining. SMAD said, "Yes, if" we can find a way to safely secure the mill to the flange. The team came up with a mounting bracket that would mate with the segment flange. Now, all the flight segment flanges are machined using these portable milling machines.
Yes, we can flip a segment with internal access hardware, if...
Can we flip a (tuna can) segment with internal access hardware installed? Although the team had flipped the cans before, they were concerned that the addition of internal hardware might offset the can's center of gravity and create a kickback effect. Although SMAD was initially uncomfortable with this proposal, the decision was deferred pending discussions with manufacturing personnel and engineers to discuss the dynamics of the lift and various lifting options. The procedures were tested and validated on the Pathfinder segment, and are now used to flip all the flight segments.
It is important to note that if team members had not discovered a way to machine these flanges and flip the segments onsite, every segment would have had to be shipped offsite to a local machine shop. This would have required police escorts (because of the segment size) and NASA would have had to pay to install a new door at the off-site facility to accommodate the size of the segment. This would have created cost and schedule impacts.
Personnel working under this "Yes If" philosophy are reporting a renewed sense of empowerment and creativity. They willingly present concerns and solutions without fear that their views will be criticized or discarded. They have learned an essential lesson: a project is far too important to point fingers or lay blame. Like a football team with a teammate who is down, we help cover his or her position; when someone fumbles the ball, we run to jump on it.
As SMAD director, I pledge my commitment, and the commitment of my staff, to provide our expertise to the Glenn community in a "Yes If" manner. Make sure to include us on your team draft.
News Briefs
Festive Occasion for Exploration Lessons
Dick DeLombard, ISS and Human Research Project Office, performs a "free fall" (microgravity) demonstration with the mini drop tower while discussing NASA facilities that are used to show effects of microgravity. Credit: NASA
From June 25 to July 6, over one million people attending the 42 Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival at the National Mall in Washington, DC, could explore NASA's contributions to science and culture for the past 50 years and into the future. NASA was one of three programs featured including the Himalayan nation of Bhutan, and the music, food and wine of Texas. Glenn had a significant presence among the exhibits and personnel, showcasing NASA's workforce culture and expertise across eight areas of work, including space science, Earth science, aeronautics, human space flight, propulsion and control systems, future initiatives, education and outreach, nutrition and space art. Employees and retirees took turns staffing the Glenn exhibits on crew exploration vehicles, wind tunnels, International Space Station power, microgravity, craftsmanship and NASA-derived technologies. Visitors could participate in activities or discussion that covered the full breadth of NASA.
Expanding Life's Range Aboard Space Station
Astronaut Lee Morin gives the audience an overview of the Constellation Program during his Third Saturday presentation. Morin currently works at NASA's Johnson Space Center assisting in the cockpit design for Constellation's Orion spacecraft that will carry humans to the Moon and Mars. Credit: Robert Tome
Astronaut Lee Morin launched into space aboard Atlantis' STS-110 mission over six years ago, but still recalls in vivid detail what he encountered as the first astronaut performing an extravehicular activity (EVA) on the International Space Station while strapped to station's Canadian robotic arm. As guest speaker for Glenn's Third Saturday event, July 19, Morin reviewed the progression of space habitation inspired by visionaries and his role on what became known as NASA's "mission of milestones." While maneuvering the void of space, he made history as part of NASA's first grandfather team, performing two of four EVAs scheduled for STS-110. Partnering with crewmate Jerry Ross, they installed the space station's starboard truss (SO), considered the backbone of future expansion. The SO housed navigational devices, computers, and cooling and power systems used to accommodate additions such as the recent Columbus and Kibo modules. The team also installed tracks for the Mobile Transporter, the first train in space.
Awards
Patent Awarded
Pictured, left to right, Dr. Xu, Lukco and Dr. Hunter. Credit: NASA/S. Jenise Veris (SGTI)
The team of Dr. Gary Hunter, Dr. Jennifer Xu and Dorothy Lukco (Artic Slope Regional Corporation) from the Sensors and Electronics Branch was awarded a U.S. Patent entitled, "Miniaturized Metal (Metal Alloy)/PdOx/SiC Hydrogen and Hydrocarbon Gas Sensors." The patent describes the method for making miniaturized Schottky diode hydrogen and hydrocarbon sensors developed for leak detection applications. The sensors are potentially applicable for emissions monitoring, fire detection, and environmental and human health monitoring.
Welch Member of Group Achievement Award
 Welch |
People
Glenn Adds Three New Aeronautics Project Managers
 Follen |
Gregory Follen becomes project manager of the Aircraft Aging and Durability Project, which focuses on developing advanced diagnostic and prognostic capabilities for detection and mitigation of aging-related hazards. Formerly technical integration manager for the ARMD Fundamental Research Program's Subsonic Fixed Wing Project, Follen brings to his new position extensive technical and project management experience to aid cross-center and cross-theme project integration. He previously served as the associate project manager in the Subsonic Fixed Wing Project, and project manager for the Numerical Propulsion System Simulation Project.
 Helland |
Claudia Meyer (not pictured) was named project manager for the Aviation Safety Program's Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) Project, which focuses on developing technologies to identify potential system/component degradation and damage to prevent in-flight failures to air and space transportation systems. Meyer's considerable project management and technical experience has helped her develop and apply health management technologies for numerous rocket engine and launch vehicle applications, while leading a multicenter team as part of the Space Launch Initiative, and more recently managing a 24-university consortium that worked on capabilities for the Constellation Program.
Wright with bakery for center friends and employees. Credit: NASA/S. Jenise Veris (SGTI)
Blossie's Bakery Featured on WVIZ
Glenn's own Blossie Wright, JDDI/Logistics and Technical Information Division, was one of several amateur cooks showcased on the "WVIZ/PBS Cooks!" Ideastream television show featuring favorite recipes from local residents. On June 7, Wright prepared a sour cream pound cake, a family recipe originating from her sister and often prepared for church, family and work gatherings. Wright offered the recipe, along with nine others, for publication in a WVIZ cookbook on "Fellowship Feasts." The book is available to viewers as a gift for a $60 pledge in support of public broadcasting. Since the first "WVIZ/PBS Cooks!" program aired in 1995, the station has amassed a library of cookbooks featuring some of the very best dishes from chefs and amateur cooks from across Ohio.
Calendar of Events
AUGUST THIRD SATURDAY EVENT: On Saturday, August 16, the Visitor Center will present "Mr. Hubble's Telescope." Join us for a discussion about the Hubble servicing mission and the latest astronomical results obtained by the Hubble Space Telescope. For more information, contact the Visitor Center at 216-433-9653 or log on to http://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/events/index.htmlWOMENS RETIREE LUNCHEON: The next NASA Womens Retiree Luncheon will be held at Quince Restaurant, 8074 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls at Grand Pacific Junction on Thursday, August 21, at noon. Please contact Gerry Ziemba, 330-273-4850 or gto64gerry@yahoo.com to reserve your place.
NASA GLENN SUPPORTS SUMMER FESTIVALS, AIR SHOWS: Glenn's Community and Media Relations Office is reaching out to the public at several events during the summer months. If you're in the area, stop by the NASA exhibit. Some of the upcoming events include the following: August 15-17, Erie City Festival, Erie, Pa.; August 22-24, Indianapolis Air Show, Indianapolis, Ind.; August 30 to September 1, Cleveland Air Show, Cleveland.
NASA 50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION GALA: Mark your calendar for NASA's 50th Anniversary Celebration Gala on Friday, August 29 at the Marriott Key Center Hotel in downtown Cleveland. Join Ohio’s aerospace community for a celebration of NASA’s 50 years of inspiration, innovation and discovery. The event will also pay tribute to Ohio’s astronauts, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to space exploration and advancing the state’s position as first in aerospace. Over 18 astronauts have confirmed their attendance. This event is open to the public. For tickets and more information about the gala, please visit http://nasa50th.grc.nasa.gov → or http://www.NASA50thOhioGala.org →
AFGE MEETING: AFGE Local 2182 will hold its next monthly membership meeting on Wednesday, September 3 at 5 p.m. at Denny's Restaurant, 25912 Lorain Road, North Olmsted.
LESA MEETING: LESA/IFPTE, Local 28, will hold its next monthly membership meeting on Wednesday, September 10, at noon in the Employee Center.
SEPTEMBER THIRD SATURDAY EVENT: On Saturday, September 20, the Visitor Center will present "Star Gazing." Visitors will learn more about the night sky and our place in the solar system during our 5th annual astronomy event. Don't miss the Starlab Dome presentations and day and night telescope viewing. For more information, contact the Visitor Center at 216-433-9653 or log on to http://www.nasa.gov/centers/glenn/events/index.html
GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE: The Bloodmobile will be set up in the Administration Building Auditorium from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the following dates:
- September 9 and 10
- November 6 and 7
NASA COUNTERINTELLIGENCE (CI) NEWSLETTER: NASA's monthly newsletter on CI and counterterrorism, "All Eyes on NASA," features information on such issues as foreign travel requirements, foreign visitors, CI indicators and reportable matters. Employees can access the newsletter through Glenn's internal Counterintelligence and Safeguards Office Web site at https://safeguards.grc.nasa.gov. Click on "CI Newsletter" from the Table of Contents.
In Memory
Victor Gordon, 89, who retired from NASA in 1979 with 35 years of Federal service, died on July 20. Gordon served as the director of Resources and Financial Management. A graduate of the Case Institute of Technology in chemical engineering, Gordon parlayed that knowledge, along with budgetary experience and people skills developed while serving as a recruiter with the Civil Service Commission, to take on a new vocation at the center. For years, "see Vic, he'll take care of you," was a common expression shared among researchers, who respected Gordon and his ability to uncover the resources needed to further their work. Gordon also served in the U.S. Army during WWII.Ellyn M. Hilliker, 83, who retired September 1975 after 15 years of service, died on July 20. Hilliker served as a clerk typist in the Nuclear Systems Division, prior to her retirement. Over the past 15 years or more, Hilliker kept connected to NASA through an annual reunion in Olmsted Falls with fellow retirees who were also residents of the Renaissance Community.
Charles Mitchelll, 78, who retired with 30 years of Federal service, died on July 9. Mitchell served as editor of "The Lewis News," predecessor to "AeroSpace Frontiers." He was a tireless advocate of good journalism--honest reporting that includes human-interest stories and accuracy in presenting scientific and administrative data. He will be remembered for capturing the culture and contributions of the center while stimulating pride and support in the workplace. As a member of the Cleveland area Mensa, Mitchell also enjoyed sharing his skill and intellect by freelancing for the Plain Dealer and other neighborhood newspapers. He became a good friend to many and will be sorely missed. Mitchell also was a veteran of the Korean War.
Robert Stanzel, 92, who retired in January 1980 with 31 years of NASA service, died on May 25. Stanzel was a pipefitter in the Facilities Operations and Maintenance Division. He also served four years in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Stanzel also took pride in being one of the temporary workers hired in the 1930s to erect stands for the National Air Races. The races were held on the land that eventually became Lewis Field!
In Appreciation
I would like to express my appreciation for the outstanding job performed by the NASA 50th Anniversary Retiree Reunion Committee in arranging and conducting this unique event. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing many of my past co-workers I haven't seen or talked to since I retired 10 years ago. Everything was outstanding including the displays of the past, the individual arrangements, and in particular, the presentations made reviewing the current R&D work being executed at the center (and planned for the future). It made me a little jealous of the younger people now conducting this exciting work. This whole event was planned and executed with the same excellence I was accustomed to while I worked at NASA Lewis/Glenn.Thank you again.
--Bernie Blaha (NASA Class of 1998)
After 22-plus years, Dave Wilt has left the building (Energy Conversion Laboratory)! I have left NASA and accepted a job at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Albuquerque, NM. I'd like to thank all of my friends and colleagues at Glenn for your support and patience with me all of those years. It's been both an honor and pleasure. Keep making me proud!
--David Wilt
(david.wilt@kirtland.af.mil)