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Code · REGISTER · 2007-02-02 · Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, USDA · Notices

Notices. Notice to reestablish committee

14,502 words·~66 min read·/register/2007/02/02/07-461

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

BILLING CODE 3410-11-M DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration Grain Inspection Advisory Committee Reestablishment AGENCY: Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, USDA. ACTION: Notice to reestablish committee. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that the Secretary of Agriculture has reestablished the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration's Grain Inspection Advisory Committee. The Secretary of Agriculture has determined that the Committee is necessary and in the public interest.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Terri L. Henry, Designated Federal Official, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, USDA, Telephone
(202)205-8281; Fax
(202)690-2755; E-mail *Terri.L.Henry@usda.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The purpose of the Advisory Committee is to provide advice to the Administrator of the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration with respect to the implementation of the U.S. Grain Standards Act (7 U.S.C. 71 *et seq.* ). Relevant information about the Advisory Committee is available on the GIPSA Web site. Go to *http://www.gipsa.usda.gov* and under the section “I Want To * * *”, click on “Learn about the Advisory Committee.” James E. Link, Administrator, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration. [FR Doc. E7-1623 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-KD-P ANTITRUST MODERNIZATION COMMISSION Public Meeting AGENCY: Antitrust Modernization Commission. ACTION: Notice of public meeting. SUMMARY: The Antitrust Modernization Commission will hold a public meeting on Thursday, February 22, 2007. The purpose of the meeting is for the Antitrust Modernization Commission to deliberate on possible recommendations regarding the antitrust laws to Congress and the President. DATES: February 22, 2007, 9:30 a.m. to approximately 5 p.m. Advanced registration is required. ADDRESSES: Morgan Lewis, Main Conference Room, 1111 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrew J. Heimert, Executive Director & General Counsel, Antitrust Modernization Commission: Telephone:
(202)233-0701; e-mail: *info@amc.gov.* Mr. Heimert is also the Designated Federal Officer
(DFO)for the Antitrust Modernization Commission. *For Registration:* For building security purposes, advanced registration is required. If you wish to attend the Commission meeting, please provide your name by e-mail to *meetings@amc.gov* or by calling the Commission offices at
(202)233-0701. Please register by 12 noon on Wednesday, February 21, 2007. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The purpose of this meeting is for the Antitrust Modernization Commission to deliberate on its report and/or recommendations to Congress and the President regarding the antitrust laws. The Commission may conduct additional business as necessary. Materials relating to the meeting will be made available on the Commission's Web site ( *http://www.amc.gov* ) in advance of the meeting. The AMC has called this meeting pursuant to its authorizing statute and the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Antitrust Modernization Commission Act of 2002, Pub. L. 107-273, sec. 11054(f), 116 Stat. 1758, 1857; Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App., 10(a)(2); 41 CFR 102-3.150 (2005). Dated: January 29, 2007. By direction of Deborah A. Garza, Chair of the Antitrust Modernization Commission. Approved by Designated Federal Officer: Andrew J. Heimert, Executive Director & General Counsel, Antitrust Modernization Commission. [FR Doc. E7-1706 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6820-YH-P COMMITTEE FOR PURCHASE FROM PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND OR SEVERELY DISABLED Withdrawal of Deletion Notice In the document appearing on page 40980, FR Doc. 05-13969, in the issue of July 17, 2005, the Committee published suspension of the effective date of the Deletion Notice published on page 35223, FR Doc. 05-3139, in the issue of June 17, 2005 for the following products: Cup, Disposable NSN: 7350-00-914-5089—Cup, Disposable NSN: 7350-00-761-7467—Cup, Disposable NSN: 7350-00-914-5088—Cup, Disposable Cup, Disposable (Foam Plastic) NSN: 7350-00-721-9003—Cup, Disposable (Foam Plastic), 6 oz. NSN: 7350-00-145-6126—Cup, Disposable (Foam Plastic), 16 oz. NSN: 7350-00-926-1661—Cup, Disposable (Foam Plastic), 10 oz. NSN: 7350-00-082-5741—Cup, Disposable (Foam Plastic), 8 oz. Lid, Plastic (Foam Cup) NSN: 7350-01-485-7092—Lid, Plastic (Foam Cup), 6 oz. NSN: 7350-01-485-7094—Lid, Plastic (Foam Cup), 8 oz. NSN: 7350-01-485-7093—Lid, Plastic (Foam Cup), 10 oz. NSN: 7350-01-485-7889—Lid, Plastic (Foam Cup), 16 oz. This notice withdraws the deletion of the above products from the Procurement List effective immediately. Sheryl D. Kennerly, Director, Information Management. [FR Doc. E7-1714 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6353-01-P COMMITTEE FOR PURCHASE FROM PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND OR SEVERELY DISABLED Procurement List Proposed Additions AGENCY: Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. ACTION: Proposed additions to Procurement List. SUMMARY: The Committee is proposing to add to the Procurement List services to be furnished by nonprofit agencies employing persons who are blind or have other severe disabilities. *Comments Must be Received on or Before:* March 4, 2007. ADDRESSES: Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled, Jefferson Plaza 2, Suite 10800, 1421 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202-3259. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO SUBMIT COMMENTS CONTACT: Sheryl D. Kennerly, Telephone:
(703)603-7740, Fax:
(703)603-0655, or e-mail *CMTEFedReg@jwod.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This notice is published pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 47(a)(2) and 41 CFR 51-2.3. Its purpose is to provide interested persons an opportunity to submit comments on the proposed actions. If the Committee approves the proposed additions, the entities of the Federal Government identified in the notice for each product or service will be required to procure the services listed below from nonprofit agencies employing persons who are blind or have other severe disabilities. Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification I certify that the following action will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The major factors considered for this certification were: 1. If approved, the action will not result in any additional reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements for small entities other than the small organizations that will furnish the services to the Government. 2. If approved, the action will result in authorizing small entities to furnish the services to the Government. 3. There are no known regulatory alternatives which would accomplish the objectives of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (41 U.S.C. 46-48c) in connection with the services proposed for addition to the Procurement List. Comments on this certification are invited. Commenter's should identify the statement(s) underlying the certification on which they are providing additional information. End of Certification The following services are proposed for addition to Procurement List for production by the nonprofit agencies listed: Services *Service Type/Location:* Grounds/Custodial Services, Cherokee National Forest—Tellico Ranger District, 250 Ranger Station Road, Tellico Plains, TN. *NPA:* Goodwill Industries—Knoxville, Inc., Knoxville, TN. *Contracting Activity:* USDA, Forest Service Cherokee National Forest. *Service Type/Location:* Mailroom Operation, Food and Drug Administration, White Oak (including College Park Drops), 5630 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD. *NPA:* Sheltered Occupational Center of Northern Virginia, Inc., Arlington, VA. *Contracting Activity:* Food and Drug Administration, Rockville, MD. *Service Type/Location:* Secure Document Destruction, Internal Revenue Service, 124 South Tennessee, Lakeland, FL. *Service Type/Location:* Secure Document Destruction, Internal Revenue Service, 129 Hibiscus Boulevard, Melbourne, FL. *Service Type/Location:* Secure Document Destruction, Internal Revenue Service, 850 Frafalga Court, Maitland, FL. *NPA:* Brevard Achievement Center, Inc. *Contracting Activity:* Internal Revenue Services. Sheryl D. Kennerly, Director, Information Management. [FR Doc. E7-1715 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6353-01-P COMMITTEE FOR PURCHASE FROM PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND OR SEVERELY DISABLED Procurement List Additions AGENCY: Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. ACTION: Additions to Procurement List. SUMMARY: This action adds to the Procurement List services to be furnished by nonprofit agencies employing persons who are blind or have other severe disabilities. DATES: *Effective Date:* March 4, 2007. ADDRESSES: Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled Jefferson Plaza 2, Suite 10800, 1421 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia, 22202-3259. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO SUBMIT COMMENTS CONTACT: Sheryl D. Kennerly, Telephone:
(703)603-7740, Fax:
(703)603-0655, or e-mail *CMTEFedReg@jwod.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On December 8, 2006, the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled published notice (71 FR.71130) of proposed additions to the Procurement List. After consideration of the material presented to it concerning capability of qualified nonprofit agencies to provide the services and impact of the additions on the current or most recent contractors, the Committee has determined that the services listed below are suitable for procurement by the Federal Government under 41 U.S.C. 46-48c and 41 CFR 51-2.4. Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification I certify that the following action will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The major factors considered for this certification were: 1. The action will not result in any additional reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements for small entities other than the small organizations that will furnish the services to the Government. 2. The action will result in authorizing small entities to furnish the services to the Government. 3. There are no known regulatory alternatives which would accomplish the objectives of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (41 U.S.C. 46-48c) in connection with the services proposed for addition to the Procurement List. End of Certification Accordingly, the following services are added to the Procurement List: Services *Service Type/Location:* Custodial Services, 10 W. Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL. *Service Type/Location:* Custodial Services, 18 W. Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL. *NPA:* Bona Fide Conglomerate, Inc., Lakeside, CA. Contracting Activity: GSA, Public Buildings Service, Region 5, Chicago, IL. *Service Type/Location:* Custodial Services, Coast Guard Housing Office, 227 S. Oakwood, Novato, CA. *NPA:* North Bay Rehabilitation Services, Inc., Rohnert Park, CA. Contracting Activity: U.S. Coast Guard-Alameda, Alameda, CA. *Service Type/Location:* Facilities Maintenance, Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA. *NPA:* PRIDE Industries, Inc., Roseville, CA. Contracting Activity: NASA-Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA. *Service Type/Location:* Patient Escort Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1055 Clermont Drive, Denver, CO. *NPA:* Bayaud Industries, Inc., Denver, CO. Contracting Activity: VISN 19 Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Denver, CO. This action does not affect current contracts awarded prior to the effective date of this addition or options that may be exercised under those contracts. Sheryl D. Kennerly, Director, Information Management. [FR Doc. E7-1716 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6353-01-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Economic Development Administration [Docket No.: 070125020-7021-01] Solicitation of Applications for the University Center Economic Development Program AGENCY: Economic Development Administration (EDA), Department of Commerce ACTION: Notice and request for applications. SUMMARY: EDA is soliciting competitive applications from accredited institutions of higher education and from consortia of accredited institutions of higher education for FY 2007 University Center Economic Development Program funding in the geographic areas served by its Austin and Denver regional offices. EDA's mission is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. Institutions of higher education have many assets and in partnership with EDA establish and operate University Centers. These EDA-sponsored University Centers conduct applied research, provide technical assistance to public and private sector organizations, and conduct other activities with the goal of enhancing regional economic development by promoting a favorable business environment to attract private capital investment and higher-skill, higher-wage jobs. DATES: The closing date and time for receipt of applications for funding under the FY 2007 University Center Economic Development Program competition is May 3, 2007 at 4 p.m. local time. EDA's Austin and Denver regional offices will each hold a teleconference to answer questions about the FY 2007 University Center Economic Development Program competition on March 8, 2007 and February 27, 2007, respectively. For further information and instructions regarding these teleconferences, please see the information provided below under “Teleconferences.” ADDRESSES: Applications may be submitted in two formats:
(i)In paper format at the addresses provided below; or
(ii)electronically in accordance with the procedures provided on *www.Grants.gov* . The content of the application is the same for paper submissions as it is for electronic submissions. EDA will not accept facsimile transmissions of applications. *Paper Submissions:* Applicants in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas should submit paper submissions (via postal mail, overnight delivery or hand-delivery) to: FY 2007 University Center Program Competition, Economic Development Administration, Austin Regional Office, 504 Lavaca Street, Suite 1100, Austin, Texas 78701-4037. Applicants in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming should submit paper submissions (via postal mail, overnight delivery or hand-delivery) to: FY 2007 University Center Program Competition, Economic Development Administration, Denver Regional Office, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 670, Denver, Colorado 80204-3591. *Electronic Submissions:* Applicants may submit applications electronically in accordance with the instructions provided at *http://www.Grants.gov.* EDA strongly encourages that applicants not wait until the application closing date to begin the application process through *http://www.Grants.gov.* The preferred file format for electronic attachments (e.g., the Project Narrative and exhibits to Form ED-900A) is portable document format (PDF); however, EDA will accept electronic files in Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Lotus or Excel formats. Applicants should access the following link for assistance in navigating *www.Grants.gov* and for a list of useful resources: *http://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant_help.jsp.* If you do not find an answer to your question under *Frequently Asked Questions* , try consulting the *Applicant's User Guide.* If you still cannot find an answer to your question, contact *www.Grants.gov* via e-mail at *support@grants.gov* or telephone at 1.800.518.4726. The hours of operation for *www.Grants.gov* are Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
(EST)(except for Federal holidays). For a copy of the FFO announcement for this request for applications, please see the Web site listed below under “Electronic Access.” FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For additional information or for a paper copy of the FFO announcement, the designated contact person in the Austin regional office is John Christ. Mr. Christ may be reached at *jchrist@eda.doc.gov* or at 512.381.8145. The designated contact person in the Denver regional office is Forlesia S. Willis. Ms. Willis may be reached at *fwillis@eda.doc.gov* or at 303.844.5452. EDA's Internet Web site at *http://www.eda.gov* also contains additional information on EDA and its programs, including the University Center Economic Development Program. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Program Information EDA began administering the University Center Economic Development Program as a competitive multi-year program as part of its FY 2004 Announcement of Federal Funding Opportunity (FFO). Under this multi-year program designation, EDA held University Center Economic Development Program competitions annually in two of its six regional offices during FY 2004 through FY 2006. The Austin and Denver regional offices solicited applications for the FY 2004 University Center competition, the Philadelphia and Chicago regional offices solicited applications for the FY 2005 University Center competition, and the Atlanta and Seattle regional offices solicited applications for the FY 2006 University Center competition. *Electronic Access:* The FFO announcement for the FY 2007 University Center Economic Development Program competition is available at *www.Grants.gov* . Additional information is available through EDA's Internet Web site at *http://www.eda.gov.* *Funding Availability:* Applicants are hereby given notice that the Department of Commerce Appropriation Act for FY 2007 has not been enacted as of the date of publication of this request for applications. EDA is currently operating with appropriations made available under the current continuing resolution for the Department of Commerce, which is in effect through February 15, 2007 (unless further amended or superseded). *See* H. J. Res. 102, Pub. L. 109-383, amending Division B—Continuing Appropriations Resolution, Pub. L. 109-289, 120 Stat. 1257. EDA anticipates making awards for the University Center Economic Development Program, provided that funding for this program is continued beyond February 15, 2007. In all events, the funding periods and funding amounts referenced in this notice are subject to the availability of FY 2007 funds at the time of award. The Department of Commerce and EDA will not be held responsible for application preparation costs if the University Center Economic Development Program fails to receive funding or is cancelled because of agency priorities. Publication of this notice does not obligate the Department of Commerce or EDA to award any specific grant or cooperative agreement or to obligate all or part of available funds. Based on recent appropriation levels, EDA anticipates a total of approximately $7,900,000 will be available in FY 2007 for the National, University Center Economic Development and Local Technical Assistance Programs. Of these anticipated amounts, EDA expects to allocate approximately $6,500,000 to the University Center Economic Development Program in FY 2007. Subject to the availability of funding at the time of award, the funds allocated to the University Center Economic Development Program are anticipated to be available until expended. Actual amounts appropriated are likely to vary from these estimates and could be significantly less. The amount of University Center funding available for competition in FY 2007 is expected to be approximately $978,000 for the geographic area served by the Austin regional office and approximately $795,000 for the geographic area served by the Denver regional office. Annual awards for the University Centers selected under the FY 2004 competition were in the $90,000 to $100,000 range in the Austin regional office and in the $95,000 to $155,000 range in the Denver regional office. These regional offices may, however, choose to fund awards under this competition outside of these ranges. The remaining FY 2007 University Center Economic Development Program funds will be used to continue support for current University Centers selected during the FY 2005 and FY 2006 competitions in EDA's other four regional offices. *Statutory Authority:* The authority for the University Center Program is section 207 (42 U.S.C. 3147) of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, as amended (42 U.S.C. 3121 *et seq.* ) (PWEDA). EDA published final regulations (codified at 13 CFR Chapter III) in the **Federal Register** on September 27, 2006 (71 FR 56658). The final regulations became effective upon publication and reflect changes made to PWEDA by the Economic Development Administration Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-373, 118 Stat. 1756). The final regulations and PWEDA are accessible on EDA's Internet Web site at *http://www.eda.gov/InvestmentsGrants/Lawsreg.xml.* *Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
(CFDA)Number:* 11.303, Economic Development—Technical Assistance. *Applicant Eligibility:* An accredited institution of higher education or a consortium of accredited institutions of higher education are eligible to apply for and to receive funding under the University Center Economic Development Program. *See* section 3(12) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3122(12)) and 13 CFR 300.3. A University-affiliated research foundation also is eligible to apply for and to receive funding under the University Center Economic Development Program, provided it demonstrates (e.g., a letter or other documentation from a University President or Chancellor) that it maintains the full and integral support of the University with respect to its economic development activities. For applicants applying as a consortium, a lead agent should be identified who would have lead responsibility to EDA and to the other members of the consortium for implementing a University Center Economic Development Program award. For FY 2007, the University Center Economic Development Program competition is open to eligible applicants in the geographic areas served by EDA's Austin and Denver regional offices. The Austin regional office serves Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. The Denver regional office serves Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. *Cost Sharing Requirements:* Generally, the amount of the EDA grant may not exceed fifty
(50)percent of the total cost of the project. Projects may receive an additional amount that shall not exceed thirty
(30)percent, as determined by EDA, based on the relative needs of the region in which the project will be located. *See* section 204(a) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and 13 CFR 301.4(b)(1). The Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development has the discretion to establish a maximum EDA investment rate of up to one-hundred
(100)percent where the project
(i)merits and is not otherwise feasible without an increase to the EDA investment rate; or
(ii)will be of no or only incidental benefit to the recipient. *See* section 204(c)(3) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and 13 CFR 301.4(b)(4). In the application review process, EDA will consider the nature of the contribution (cash or in-kind) and the amount of the matching share funds. While cash contributions are preferred, in-kind contributions, fairly evaluated by EDA, may provide the non-federal share of the total project cost. *See* section 204(b) of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3144) and section I.B. of the FFO announcement for this request for applications. In-kind contributions, which may include assumptions of debt and contributions of space, equipment, and services, are eligible to be included as part of the non-federal share of eligible project costs if they meet applicable federal cost principles and uniform administrative requirements. Funds from other federal financial assistance awards are considered matching share funds only if authorized by statute, which may be determined by EDA's reasonable interpretation of the statute. *See* 13 CFR 300.3. The applicant must show that the matching share is committed to the project, available as needed and not conditioned or encumbered in any way that precludes its use consistent with the requirements of EDA investment assistance. *See* 13 CFR 301.5. *Intergovernmental Review:* Applications for funding under the University Center Economic Development Program are subject to the State review requirements imposed by Executive Order 12372, “ *Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.* ” *Evaluation and Selection Procedures:* Prior to the review paneling process, EDA's Austin and Denver regional offices will undertake a technical review of each application to ensure that all required forms, signatures and documentation are present and that the application is in compliance with the requirements of this competitive solicitation. Applications materially failing to meet the technical requirements of this competitive solicitation will not be referred to the review panel. Applications meeting all technical requirements will undergo a merit review by EDA's Austin and Denver regional offices. The review panel will consist of federal employees, at least three
(3)of which will be members of EDA staff from the Austin and Denver regional offices, who will evaluate and competitively rate and rank all technically-sufficient applications using the criteria provided under “Evaluation Criteria” below. The Regional Director of each regional office is the Selecting Official for the applications received from applicants located within that regional office's geographic service area. The review panel will submit to the Selecting Official a list of applicants recommended for funding. *Evaluation Criteria:* The evaluation of applications will be accomplished through a review using the following criteria, listed in descending order of importance:
(i)Ability to satisfy one or more of the University Center-specific investment policy guidelines;
(ii)applicant's ability to successfully implement the project;
(iii)feasibility of the project budget; and
(iv)cost of the project to the Federal government. Each criterion is described below. *Investment Policy Guidelines.* The following University Center-specific investment policy guidelines have been adapted from
(i)EDA's general investment policy guidelines set forth in 13 CFR 301.8 and
(ii)the specific award requirements for University Center projects listed in 13 CFR 306.5. Applications received in response to this competitive solicitation will be competitively rated and ranked based on the project's ability to satisfy one or more of these University Center-specific investment policy guidelines (each criterion will be given equivalent weight). 1. *Be market-based and results driven.* An investment in an EDA University Center will capitalize on the university's competitive strengths and will bolster regional economic competitiveness, resulting in tangible, quantifiable improvements in regional economic health, such as increased numbers of higher-skill, higher-wage jobs, increased tax revenue or increased private sector investment. 2. *Have strong organizational leadership.* An investment will have strong leadership, relevant project management experience, and a significant commitment of human resources talent to ensure a high-performing University Center. Specifically for University Center investments, this includes:
(a)The extent to which the proposed University Center will maximize coordination with other relevant organizations and avoid duplication of services offered by other organizations;
(b)the extent to which the University Center will access, take advantage of, and be supported by the other resources present at the sponsoring institution, especially the institution's economic development activities; and
(c)the degree of evidence demonstrating the support and commitment (both financial and non-financial) of the highest management levels of the proposed University Center's sponsoring institution. 3. *Advance productivity, innovation and entrepreneurship* . An investment in a proposed University Center will embrace the principles of entrepreneurship; enhance regional industry clusters, and leverage and link technology innovators (university research) with the private sector to create the conditions for greater productivity, innovation and higher-skill, higher-wage job creation. 4. *Look beyond the immediate economic horizon, anticipate economic changes, and diversify the local and regional economy.* A University Center's activities will be part of an overarching, long-term comprehensive economic development strategy that enhances a region's success in achieving a rising standard of living. 5. *Demonstrate a high degree of local commitment by exhibiting:* • High levels of local government or non-profit matching funds and private sector leverage; • Clear and unified leadership and support by local elected officials; and • Strong cooperation between the business sector, relevant regional partners and local, State and Federal governments. *Ability to Successfully Implement the Project:* The review panel will evaluate the applicant's ability to successfully implement the project. This evaluation will include the extent to which the applicant (including its sponsoring institution) has successfully implemented past technical assistance projects, especially those involving economic development. The review panel also will evaluate the expertise of project staff, as well as the academic programs and other resources available within the sponsoring institution. *See* 13 CFR 306.5. *Feasibility of Project Budget:* The review panel will evaluate the feasibility of the project budget, including but not limited to the reasonableness and the allowability of project costs. *Cost of the Project to the Federal Government:* The review panel will evaluate the cost of the project to the Federal government, taking into account the technical assistance services to be performed by the University Center and how those services are anticipated to spur regional economic development. As provided under “Cost Sharing Requirements” in this request for applications and in section I.B. of the FFO announcement, EDA may give a preference to those applications that include a cash contribution for the matching share requirement. Selection Factors EDA expects to fund the highest ranking applications submitted under this competition solicitation. The Selecting Official will normally follow the recommendations of the review panel; however, the Selecting Official may decide not to make a selection, or he may select an application out of rank order for several reasons, including:
(1)A determination that the application better meets the overall objectives of sections 2 and 207 of PWEDA (42 U.S.C. 3121 and 3147);
(2)the availability of program funding;
(3)the geographic balance in distribution of program funds;
(4)program priorities as set forth in the FFO announcement; or
(5)the applicant's performance under previous federal financial assistance awards. *The Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements:* The administrative and national policy requirements for all Department of Commerce awards, contained in the *Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements,* published in the **Federal Register** on December 30, 2004 (69 FR 78389), are applicable to this competitive solicitation. *Teleconferences:* The Austin regional office will hold a pre-application teleconference on March 8, 2007 at 11 a.m. (CST). The Denver regional office will hold its pre-application teleconference call on February 27, 2007 at 12 p.m. (MST). These teleconferences will provide general program information and information regarding the preparation of applications for funding under this competitive solicitation. To ensure the integrity of this competition, EDA will not provide substantive information regarding the competition to prospective applicants outside of these scheduled teleconferences. To ensure that enough incoming lines are available for each caller, the Austin regional office requires interested parties planning to participate on the teleconference to register no later than 6 p.m.
(CST)on March 6, 2007; the Denver regional office requires interested parties planning to participate on the teleconference to register no later than 12 p.m.
(MST)on February 23, 2007. To register, please send an e-mail with “Teleconference Registration” in the subject line to the designated contact person in the Austin or Denver regional office, as provided under “For Further Information” in this request for applications. The telephone number and pass code for each teleconference will be provided upon registration. Please be advised that the pre-application teleconferences may be audio-taped and the actual recordings or a transcript of the actual recording may be made available online for the benefit of prospective applicants unable to participate. Prospective applicants who choose to participate on the teleconferences are deemed to consent to the taping. Paperwork Reduction Act This document contains collection-of-information requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The use of Form ED-900A ( *Application for Investment Assistance* ) has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)under the control number 0610-0094. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person is required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the requirements of the PRA unless that collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number. Executive Order 12866 This notice has been determined to be not significant for purposes of Executive Order 12866. Executive Order 13132 (Federalism) It has been determined that this notice does not contain policies with Federalism implications as that term is defined in Executive Order 13132. Administrative Procedure Act/Regulatory Flexibility Act Prior notice and an opportunity for public comments are not required by the Administrative Procedure Act or any other law for rules concerning grants, benefits, and contracts (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). Because notice and opportunity for comment are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 or any other law, the analytical requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 *et seq.* ) are inapplicable. Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis has not been prepared. Sandy K. Baruah, Assistant Secretary of Commerce, for Economic Development. [FR Doc. E7-1614 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-24-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration Initiation of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Administrative Reviews and Request for Revocation in Part AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Commerce. SUMMARY: The Department of Commerce (the Department) has received requests to conduct administrative reviews of various antidumping and countervailing duty orders and findings with December anniversary dates. In accordance with our regulations, we are initiating those administrative reviews. The Department also received a request to revoke one antidumping duty order in part. DATES: *Effective Date:* February 2, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sheila E. Forbes, Office of AD/CVD Operations, Office 4, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230, telephone:
(202)482-4737. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The Department has received timely requests, in accordance with 19 CFR 351.213(b) (2004), for administrative reviews of various antidumping and countervailing duty orders and findings with December anniversary dates. The Department also received timely requests to revoke in part the antidumping duty order on Honey from Argentina with respect to one exporter. Initiation of Reviews In accordance with section 19 CFR 351.221(c)(1)(i), we are initiating administrative reviews of the following antidumping and countervailing duty orders and findings. We intend to issue the final results of these reviews not later than December 31, 2007. Period to be reviewed Antidumping Duty Proceedings Argentina: Honey, A-357-812 12/01/05-11/30/06 Asociacion de Cooperativas Argentinas Agroin Las Piedras Ltda. Compania Apicola Argentina S.A. El Mana, S.A. Mielar S.A. Naiman S.A. Nexco S.A. Patagonik S.A. Seabird Argentina S.A. Seylinco S.A. Ultramar Argentina SA India: Carbazole Violet Pigment 23, A-533-838 12/1/05-11/30/06 Alpanil Industries India: Certain Hot-Rolled Carbon Steel Flat Products, A-533-820 12/1/05-11/30/06 Essar Steel Ltd. Ispat Industries Limited JSW Steel Limited Tata Steel Limited India: Stainless Steel Wire Rod, A-533-808 12/1/05-11/30/06 Mukand, Ltd. Sunflag Iron and Steel Co., Ltd. The People's Republic of China: Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 1 , A-570-892 12/1/05-11/30/06 Aesthetic Colortech (Shanghai) Company, Limited Anhui Worldbest IE Company, Limited Cidic Company, Limited Ganguink Group, Pigment Division Goldlink Industries Company, Limited Hunan Sunlogistics International Company, Limited Hygeia-Chem (Shanghai) Company, Limited Nantong Haidi Chemical Company, Ltd. Pudong Prime International Logistic Incorporated Shanghai Rainbow Dyes Import & Export Sinocol Corporation, Limited Trust Chem Co., Ltd. Yancheng Tiacheng Chemical Company, Limited The People's Republic of China: Certain Cased Pencils 2 , A-570-827 12/1/05-11/30/06 China First Pencil Company, Ltd. Shandong Rongxin Import & Export Co., Ltd. Three Star Stationary Industry Co., Ltd. The People's Republic of China: Hand Trucks and Parts Thereof 3 , A-570-891 12/1/05-11/30/06 Qingdao Huatian Hand Truck Co., Ltd. Qingdao Taifa Group Co., Ltd. True Potential Co., Ltd. Qingdao Future Tool, Inc. Shandong Machinery I & E Group Corp. Formost Plastics & Metalworks (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. Forecarry Corp. Since Hardware (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd. The People's Republic of China: Honey 4 , A-570-863 12/1/05-11/30/06 Anhui Honghui Foodstuff (Group) Co., Ltd. Apiarist Co. Beijing World Trade Co., Ltd. Cheng Du Wai Yuan Bee Products Co., Ltd. Chiangmai Healthyproduct Co., Ltd China Ocean Shipping Agency Beijing Dongtai Peak Honey Industry Co., Ltd. Eurasia Bee's Products Co., Ltd. Hangzhou Golden Harvest Health Industry Co., Ltd. Hangzhou Golden Dragon Group Corporation Ltd. Hangzhou Xinsheng (or Xinyun) Shipping Agency Co., Ltd. Inner Mongolia Altin Bee-Keeping Inner Mongolia Youth Trade Development Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Kanghong Natural Healthfoods Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Light Industry Products Imp & Exp (Group) Corp. Kunshan Xinrui Co., Ltd. M&H Shipping (Shanghai) Corporation Mgl Yung Sheng Honey Co., Ltd. Qingdao Aolan Trade Co., Ltd. Qinhuangdao Municipal Dafeng Industrial Co., Ltd. Rich Shipping Company Shanghai Bloom International Trading Co., Ltd. Shanghai Taiside Trading Co., Ltd. Shanghai Xinyun International Transportation Co., Ltd. Sichuan-Dujiangyan Dubao Bee Industrial Co., Ltd. Tianjin Eulia Honey Co., Ltd. United Logistics Group Inc. Wuhan Bee Healthy Co., Ltd. Wuhan Shino-Food Trade Co., Ltd. Wuhu Qinshi Tangye Zhejiang Native Produce & Animal By-Products I/E Group Corp. The People's Republic of China: Malleable Cast Iron Pipe Fittings 5 , A-570-881 12/1/05-11/30/06 Mueller Comercial de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Countervailing Duty Proceedings Argentina: Honey 6 , C-357-813 1/1/06-12/31/06 India: Carbazole Violet Pigment 23, C-533-839 1/1/05-12/31/05 Alpanil Industries India: Certain Hot-Rolled Carbon Steel Flat Products, C-533-821 1/1/06-12/31/06 Essar Steel Ltd. Ispat Industries Limited JSW Steel Limited Tata Steel Limited 1 If one of the above named companies does not qualify for a separate rate, all other exporters of Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from the People's Republic of China who have not qualified for a separate rate are deemed to be covered by this review as part of the single PRC entity of which the named exporters are a part. 2 If one of the above named companies does not qualify for a separate rate, all other exporters of Certain Cased Pencils from the People's Republic of China who have not qualified for a separate rate are deemed to be covered by this review as part of the single PRC entity of which the named exporters are a part. 3 If one of the above named companies does not qualify for a separate rate, all other exporters of Hand Trucks and Parts Thereof from the People's Republic of China who have not qualified for a separate rate are deemed to be covered by this review as part of the single PRC entity of which the named exporters are a part. 4 If one of the above named companies does not qualify for a separate rate, all other exporters of Honey from the People's Republic of China who have not qualified for a separate rate are deemed to be covered by this review as part of the single PRC entity of which the named exporters are a part. 5 If one of the above named companies does not qualify for a separate rate, all other exporters of Malleable Cast Iron Pipe Fittings from the People's Republic of China who have not qualified for a separate rate are deemed to be covered by this review as part of the single PRC entity of which the named exporters are a part. 6 In accordance with section 351.213(b) of the regulations, the petitioners have requested an administrative review of this countervailing duty order. No individual exporters requested the review pursuant to section 351.213(b) of the regulations. Accordingly, the Department will be conducting the review of this order on an aggregate basis. Suspension Agreements None. During any administrative review covering all or part of a period falling between the first and second or third and fourth anniversary of the publication of an antidumping duty order under section 351.211 or a determination under section 351.218(f)(4) to continue an order or suspended investigation (after sunset review), the Secretary, if requested by a domestic interested party within 30 days of the date of publication of the notice of initiation of the review, will determine, consistent with *FAG Italia* v. *United States,* 291 F.3d 806 (Fed. Cir. 2002), as appropriate, whether antidumping duties have been absorbed by an exporter or producer subject to the review if the subject merchandise is sold in the United States through an importer that is affiliated with such exporter or producer. The request must include the name(s) of the exporter or producer for which the inquiry is requested. Interested parties must submit applications for disclosure under administrative protective orders in accordance with 19 CFR 351.305. These initiations and this notice are in accordance with section 751(a) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1675(a)), and 19 CFR 351.221(c)(1)(i). Dated: January 24, 2007. Stephen J. Claeys, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Import Administration. [FR Doc. E7-1742 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DS-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration Antidumping or Countervailing Duty Order, Finding, or Suspended Investigation; Opportunity To Request Administrative Review AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sheila E. Forbes, Office of AD/CVD Operations, Office 4, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230, *telephone:*
(202)482-4697. Background Each year during the anniversary month of the publication of an antidumping or countervailing duty order, finding, or suspension of investigation, an interested party, as defined in section 771(9) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (the Act), may request, in accordance with section 351.213(2004) of the Department of Commerce (the Department) Regulations, that the Department conduct an administrative review of that antidumping or countervailing duty order, finding, or suspended investigation. *Opportunity To Request A Review:* Not later than the last day of February 2007, 1 interested parties may request administrative review of the following orders, findings, or suspended investigations, with anniversary dates in February for the following periods: 1 Or the next business day, if the deadline falls on a weekend, federal holiday or any other day when the Deparmtnet is closed. Period Antidumping Duty Proceedings *Brazil:* Stainless Steel Bar, A-351-825 2/1/06-1/31/07 Frozen Warmwater Shrimp, A-351-838 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Ecuador:* Frozen Warmwater Shrimp, A-331-802 2/1/05-1/31/07 *France:* Uranium, A-427-818 2/1/06-1/31/07 *India:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, A-533-817 2/1/06-1/31/07 Forged Stainless Steel Flanges, A-533-809 2/1/06-1/31/07 Frozen Warmwater Shrimp, A-533-840 2/1/06-1/31/07 Stainless Steel Bar, A-533-810 2/1/06-1/31/07 Certain Preserved Mushrooms, A-533-813 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Indonesia:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, A-560-805 2/1/06-1/31/07 Certain Preserved Mushrooms, A-560-802 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Italy:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, A-475-826 2/1/06-1/31/07 Stainless Steel Butt-Weld Pipe Fittings, A-475-828 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Japan:* Carbon Steel Butt-Weld Pipe Fittings, A-588-602 2/1/06-1/31/07 Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, A-588-847 2/1/06-1/31/07 Stainless Steel Bar, A-588-833 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Malaysia:* Stainless Steel Butt-Weld Pipe Fittings, A-557-809 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Mexico:* Welded Large Diameter Line Pipe, A-201-828 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Philippines:* Stainless Steel Butt-Weld Pipe Fittings, A-565-801 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Republic of Korea:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, A-580-836 2/1/06-1/31/07 Stainless Steel Butt-Weld Pipe Fittings, A-580-813 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Taiwan:* Forged Stainless Steel Flanges, A-583-821 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Thailand:* Frozen Warmwater Shrimp, A-549-822 2/1/06-1/31/07 *The People's Republic of China:* Axes/adzes, A-570-803 2/1/06-1/31/07 Bars/wedges, A-570-803 2/1/06-1/31/07 Certain Preserved Mushrooms, A-570-851 2/1/06-1/31/07 Frozen Warmwater Shrimp, A-570-893 2/1/06-1/31/07 Hammers/sledges, A-570-803 2/1/06-1/31/07 Natural Bristle Paint Brushes and Brush Heads, A-570-501 2/1/06-1/31/07 Picks/mattocks, A-570-803 2/1/06-1/31/07 *Socialist Republic of Vietnam:* Frozen Warmwater Shrimp, A-552-802 2/1/06-1/31/07 Countervailing Duty Proceedings *France:* Low Enriched Uranium, C-427-819 1/1/06-12/31/06 *India:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, C-533-818 1/1/06-12/31/06 Prestressed Concrete Steel Wire Strand, C-533-829 1/1/06-12/31/06 *Indonesia:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, C-560-806 1/1/06-12/31/06 *Italy:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, C-475-827 1/1/06-12/31/06 *Republic of Korea:* Certain Cut-to-Length Carbon-Quality Steel Plate, C-580-837 1/1/06-12/31/06 Suspension Agreements None. In accordance with section 351.213(b) of the regulations, an interested party as defined by section 771(9) of the Act, may request in writing that the Secretary conduct an administrative review. For both antidumping and countervailing duty reviews, the interested party must specify the individual producers or exporters covered by an antidumping finding or an antidumping or countervailing duty order or suspension agreement for which it is requesting a review, and the requesting party must state why it desires the Secretary to review those particular producers or exporters. 2 If the interested party intends for the Secretary to review sales of merchandise by an exporter (or a producer if that producer also exports merchandise from other suppliers) which were produced in more than one country of origin and each country of origin is subject to a separate order, then the interested party must state specifically, on an order-by-order basis, which exporter(s) the request is intended to cover. 2 If the review request involves a non-market economy and the parties subject to the review request do not qualify for separate rates, all other exporters of subject merchandise from the non-market economy country who do not have a separate rate will be covered by the review as part of the single entity of which the named firms are a part. Please note that, for any party the Department was unable to locate in prior segments, the Department will not accept a request for an administrative review of that party absent new information as to the party's location. Moreover, if the interested party who files a request for review is unable to locate the producer or exporter for which it requested the review, the interested party must provide an explanation of the attempts it made to locate the producer or exporter at the same time it files its request for review, in order for the Secretary to determine if the interested party's attempts were reasonable, pursuant to 19 CFR 351.303(f)(3)(ii). As explained in *Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Proceedings: Assessment of Antidumping Duties,* 68 FR 23954 (May 6, 2003), the Department has clarified its practice with respect to the collection of final antidumping duties on imports of merchandise where intermediate firms are involved. The public should be aware of this clarification in determining whether to request an administrative review of merchandise subject to antidumping findings and orders. See also the Import Administration Web site at *http://ia.ita.doc.gov.* Six copies of the request should be submitted to the Assistant Secretary for Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Room 1870, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230. The Department also asks parties to serve a copy of their requests to the Office of Antidumping/Countervailing Operations, Attention: Sheila Forbes, in room 3065 of the main Commerce Building. Further, in accordance with section 351.303(f)(l)(i) of the regulations, a copy of each request must be served on every party on the Department's service list. The Department will publish in the **Federal Register** a notice of “Initiation of Administrative Review of Antidumping or Countervailing Duty Order, Finding, or Suspended Investigation” for requests received by the last day of February 2007. If the Department does not receive, by the last day of February 2007, a request for review of entries covered by an order, finding, or suspended investigation listed in this notice and for the period identified above, the Department will instruct the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to assess antidumping or countervailing duties on those entries at a rate equal to the cash deposit of (or bond for) estimated antidumping or countervailing duties required on those entries at the time of entry, or withdrawal from use, for consumption and to continue to collect the cash deposit previously ordered. This notice is not required by statute but is published as a service to the international trading community. Dated: January 29, 2007. Stephen J. Claeys, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Import Administration. [FR Doc. E7-1744 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DS-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Clean Energy Technologies Trade Mission, India and China, April 18-25, 2007 AGENCY: International Trade Administration, Commerce. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The International Trade Administration of the United States Department of Commerce is organizing a Clean Energy Technologies Trade Mission to India and China, April 18-25, 2007, to be led by Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Market Access and Compliance, David Bohigian. The trade mission will target a broad range of clean energy technologies such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, clean coal, and distributed generation. This mission takes place within the context of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate, a public-private partnership in which member countries work together to facilitate commercial deployment of technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security. The goal of the mission is to match participating U.S. companies with prescreened partner agents, distributors, representatives, licensees or retailers in each of these important sectors. The mission will include meetings with national and local government officials, networking opportunities, one-on-one business meetings, country briefings by experts, and site visits. DATES: Recruitment will begin immediately and will close on March 19, 2007. The Trade Mission will take place April 18-25, 2007. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Frank Caliva, U.S. Commercial Service—U.S. Department of Commerce, E-mail: *frank.caliva@mail.doc.gov* , Telephone: 202-482-8245, Mission Web site: *http://www.export.gov/cleanenergymission* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Commercial Setting *India:* With the rapid growth of its economy, demand for energy in India far exceeds its growth in supply. Rising energy prices, worsening pollution problems, and energy security risks have created a critical need for investments in clean energy. The Government of India has prioritized the development of renewable energy. The following factors support the growth of the Indian renewables sector: the large demand-supply gap in electricity; abundant renewable energy resources (solar, wind, biomass, and hydro); low gestation periods for establishing renewables projects; conducive government policies; availability of numerous financing options for capital equipment; and increasing industry awareness of the benefits of environmental responsibility. The market in India for renewable energy is estimated to be worth $500 million, and is growing at an annual rate of 15 percent, creating strong and diverse business prospects for U.S. renewable energy companies. As the seat of the national government, New Delhi is also the principal end-user of clean energy technology fulfilling the Government of India's directives on nation-wide deployment of renewables. In many cases, the Government of India provides incentives to promote the installation of renewable energy generation projects. New Delhi is also one of India's largest metropolitan areas and is in dire need of power generation and environmental quality improvements. The city's size makes it an attractive market for large investments in clean energy projects from solid and liquid wastes, the utilization of which for the purposes of energy production is a key national priority. Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, and in addition to being one of the top five Indian states in terms of foreign direct investment, it has the distinction of being a leader in wind energy. The state has also taken a lead role in India in promoting solar air heating technology. Taking advantage of the state government's investments in renewable energy, India's first-of-its kind special economic zone
(SEZ)for manufacturing and testing of non-conventional energy equipment is set to open soon in Chennai. The project is expected to attract an investment of $65-$90 million over the next four years and will encompass over 1,000 acres. Chennai is also the location of the Center for Wind Energy Technology, a research institute active in all aspects of wind energy. *China:* Due to rapidly increasing energy demand and the desire to expand the use of non-fossil fuels, the Chinese government is targeting the development of clean energy technologies in its current 11th Five Year Plan. Emphasized sectors include clean coal technologies, wind power, solar power, and biomass. Beijing is unique in China in that it is a city with provincial status, enabling its municipal government to approve independent foreign investment projects up to a value of $30 million. This has positioned Beijing as an attractive location for foreign investment in China. As the national capital, Beijing offers unparalleled access to meet with Chinese policymakers. There is a strong market for clean energy technologies in Beijing, due to its size and economic importance. The selection of the city as the host of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games has spurred substantial government investment in projects that improve environmental quality. Nanjing (population 5,000,000), a few hours from Shanghai along the Yangtze River, is one of China's most developed cities. Power and energy are among the city's core industries. The city hosts one of China's largest trade fairs on renewable/clean energy and is currently undertaking a prominent provincial-level project to create an efficient power plant. The project is intended to achieve energy conservation and efficiency by implementing new technologies, and is rooted in demand-side management familiar to U.S. companies. The utilization of clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency are crucial components of the project. *Mission Goals:* The Trade Mission's goal is to facilitate market entry or increased sales into these significant markets for U.S. clean technologies firms, as well to assist the mission participants in gaining first-hand market information and access to key government officials and potential business partners. *Mission Scenario:* In India and China, the International Trade Administration will: • Provide a market briefing highlighting opportunities in the clean technologies sectors. • Schedule one-on-one appointments with potential business partners for each participant. • Provide a venue for the one-on-one appointments and provide interpreters as needed. • Provide networking opportunities with the private and public sectors. • Organize relevant site visits. Proposed Mission Timetable Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Arrive in Chennai Wednesday, April 18, 2007 Business appointments in Chennai Evening reception Thursday, April 19, 2007 Site visit, additional appointments in Chennai Afternoon flight to New Delhi Evening reception in New Delhi Friday, April 20, 2007 Business appointments in New Delhi Saturday, April 21, 2007 Free day in New Delhi Evening flight to Beijing Sunday, April 22, 2007 Free day in Beijing Monday, April 23, 2007 Business appointments in Beijing Evening reception in Beijing Tuesday, April 24, 2007 Site visit in a.m. Afternoon flight to Nanjing Evening reception in Nanjing Wednesday, April 25, 2007 Business appointments in Nanjing Conclusion of trade mission (It is possible for companies to participate in one or both countries of this trade mission.) Criteria for Participation • Relevance of the company's business line to the mission scope and goals. • Potential for business in the selected markets. • Timeliness of the company's completed application, participation agreement, and payment of the mission participation fee. • Provision of adequate information on the company's products and/or services and communication of the company's primary objectives to facilitate appropriate matching with potential business partners. • Certification that the company's products and/or services are manufactured or produced in the United States or if manufactured/produced outside of the United States, the product/service must be marketed under the name of a U.S. firm and have U.S. content representing at least 51 percent of the value of the finished good or service. • Diversity of sectors represented. Any partisan political activities of an applicant, including political contributions, will be entirely irrelevant to the selection process. *The mission will be promoted through the following venues:* ITA's Export Assistance Centers, the Energy Team, the Asia Pacific Team, the Africa, Near East, and South Asia Team, Global Trade Programs; the Trade Events List *http://www.export.gov* ; industry newsletters; the **Federal Register** ; the Asia-Pacific Partnership for Clean Development and Climate; relevant trade publications; relevant trade associations; past Commerce trade mission participants; various in-house and purchased industry lists; and on the Commerce Department trade missions calendar: *http://www.ita.doc.gov/doctm/tmcal.html* . Recruitment will begin immediately and will close on March 19, 2007. Qualified U.S. companies/applicants will be selected on a rolling basis. The trade mission participation fee will be U.S. $4,900 per company. (If a company would like to participate in just the India portion or just the China portion of the trade mission, the participation fee will be $2,450.) There will be an additional fee of $750 per country for each additional participant a company sends. The participation fee does not include the cost of travel, lodging, ground transportation, or some meals. Participation is open to 20 qualified U.S. companies. Applications received after that date will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints permit. Dated: January 30, 2007. David Bohigian, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Market Access & Compliance. [FR Doc. E7-1713 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DA-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Minority Business Development Agency [Docket No: 070116014-7015-01] Solicitation of Applications for the Cleveland and Queens Minority Business Enterprise Centers AGENCY: Minority Business Development Agency, Commerce. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Minority Business Development Agency
(MBDA)originally published a **Federal Register** notice on July 26, 2006 soliciting competitive applications for operators of the Cleveland Minority Business Enterprise Center (Cleveland MBEC) and the Queens Minority Business Enterprise Center (Queens MBEC) under its Minority Business Enterprise Center program. However, due to the lack of responsive applications, the Cleveland MBEC and the Queens MBEC competitions were deemed unsuccessful by MBDA. In accordance with 15 U.S.C. 1512 and Executive Order 11625, this notice re-solicits competitive applications for operators of the Cleveland MBEC and the Queens MBEC. This notice supersedes in its entirety the original competitive solicitation notice for these two projects. Responsibility for ensuring that applications are complete and received by MBDA on time is the sole responsibility of the Applicant. Applications that do not meet the requirements of this notice will be rejected. DATES: The closing date for receipt of applications is March 5, 2007. Completed applications must be received by MBDA no later than 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time at the address below for paper submission or at *http://www.Grants.gov* for electronic submission. The due date and time is the same for electronic submissions as it is for paper submissions. The date that applications will be deemed to have been submitted electronically shall be the date and time received at Grants.gov. Applicants should save and print the proof of submission they receive from Grants.gov. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Anticipated time for processing is sixty
(60)days from the date of publication of this notice. MBDA anticipates that awards for the Cleveland MBEC and for the Queens MBEC will be made with a start date of May 1, 2007. *Pre-Application Conference:* In connection with this solicitation, a pre-application teleconference will be held on February 16, 2007. Conference participants must register at least 24 hours in advance of the event. Please visit the MBDA Minority Business Internet Portal at *http://www.mbda.gov* (MBDA Portal) for registration instructions. Additionally, a summary of the questions and answers from the pre-application conference will be available through the MBDA Portal as soon as practicable following the conference. ADDRESSES:
(1a)*Paper Submission—If Mailed:* If the application is mailed/shipped overnight by the applicant or its representative, one
(1)signed original plus two
(2)copies of the application must be submitted. Completed application packages must be mailed to: Office of Business Development—MBEC Program, Office of Executive Secretariat, HCHB, Room 5063, Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230. U.S. Department of Commerce delivery policies for Federal Express, UPS, and DHL overnight services require the packages to be sent to the address above. *(1b) Paper Submission—If Hand-Delivered:* If the application is hand-delivered by the applicant or his/her representative, one
(1)signed original plus two
(2)copies of the application must be delivered to: U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency, Office of Business Development—MBEC Program (extension 1940), HCHB, Room 1874, Entrance #10, 15th Street, NW., Washington, DC. (Between Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues). U.S. Department of Commerce “hand-delivery” policies state that Federal Express, UPS, and DHL overnight services submitted to the address listed above (Entrance #10) cannot be accepted. These policies should be taken into consideration when utilizing their services. MBDA will not accept applications that are submitted by the deadline but rejected due to Departmental hand-delivery policies. The applicant must adhere to these policies in order for his/her application to receive consideration for award. *(2) Electronic Submission:* Applicants are encouraged to submit their proposal electronically at *http://www.Grants.gov.* Electronic submissions should be made in accordance with the instructions available at Grants.gov (see *http://www.grants.gov/ForApplicants* for detailed information). MBDA strongly recommends that applicants not wait until the application deadline date to begin the application process through Grants.gov. Paper applications and Standard Forms may be obtained by contacting the MBDA National Enterprise Center
(NEC)for the area where the Applicant is located (see Agency Contacts below) or by visiting the MBDA Portal at *http://www.mbda.gov.* Standard Forms 424, 424A, 424B can also be obtained at *http://www.Grants.gov.* Forms CD-511 and CD-346 may be obtained at *http://www.doc.gov/forms.* Form SF-LLL can be obtained at *http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Agency Contacts 1. Office of Business Development, 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW., Room 5073, Washington DC 20230. *Contact:* Efrain Gonzalez, Program Manager at 202-482-1940. 2. Chicago National Enterprise Center
(CNEC)is located at 55 E. Monroe Street, Suite 1406, Chicago, IL 60603. This region covers the states of Ohio, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, and Missouri. *Contact:* Eric Dobyne, Regional Director, CNEC at 312-353-0182. 3. New York National Enterprise Center (NYNEC) is located at 26 Federal Plaza, Room 3720, New York, NY 10278. This region covers the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and District of Columbia. *Contact:* Heyward Davenport, Regional Director, NYNEC at 212-264-3262. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Background:* The Minority Business Development Agency
(MBDA)published a **Federal Register** notice on July 26, 2006 (71 FR 42351) soliciting competitive applications for operators of the Cleveland MBEC and the Queens MBEC under its Minority Business Enterprise Center program. However, due to the lack of responsive applications, the Cleveland MBEC and the Queens MBEC competitions were deemed unsuccessful by MBDA. On December 22, 2006, MBDA published a Federal Notice (71 FR 76981) allowing for up to a 120-day funded extension (on a non-competitive basis) of the current award for the Queens MBEC to allow for continued program delivery by the incumbent operator while MBDA completes the solicitation process for an operator of the Queens MBEC for the next award period. The Cleveland MBEC is a new project without an incumbent operator and therefore a similar extension was not necessary for this project. In accordance with 15 U.S.C. 1512 and Executive Order 11625, this notice re-solicits competitive applications for the Cleveland MBEC and for the Queens MBEC. This notice supersedes in its entirety the original competitive solicitation notice for these projects. *Geographic Service Areas:* The MBEC will provide services in the following geographic areas: MBEC name Location of MBEC Geographic service area Cleveland MBEC Cleveland, OH State of Ohio. Queens MBEC Jamaica, NY New York Counties of: Queens, Nassau and Suffolk. *Electronic Access:* A link to the full text of the Announcement of Federal Funding Opportunity
(FFO)for this solicitation may be accessed at *http://www.Grants.gov,* at *http://www.mbda.gov,* or by contacting the appropriate MBDA representative identified above. The FFO contains a full and complete description of the MBEC Program requirements. In order to receive proper consideration, applicants must comply with all information and requirements contained in the FFO. Applicants will be able to access, download and submit electronic grant applications for the MBEC Program in this announcement at *http://www.Grants.gov.* MBDA strongly recommends that applicants not wait until the application deadline date to begin the application process through Grants.gov. The date that applications will be deemed to have been submitted electronically shall be the date and time received at Grants.gov. Applicants should save and print the proof of submission they receive from Grants.gov. Applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered. *Funding Priorities:* Preference may be given during the selection process to applications that address the following MBDA funding priorities:
(a)Applicants who submit proposals that include work activities that exceed the minimum work requirements for this program as set forth in the FFO;
(b)Applicants who submit proposals that include performance goals that exceed the minimum performance goal requirements for this program as set forth in the FFO;
(c)Applicants who demonstrate an exceptional ability to identify and work towards the elimination of barriers, which limit the access of minority businesses to markets and capital;
(d)Applicants who demonstrate an exceptional ability to identify and work with minority businesses seeking to obtain large-scale contracts and/or insertion into supply chains with institutional customers; and
(e)Applicants that utilize fee for service models and those that demonstrate an exceptional ability to charge and collect fees from clients. *Funding Availability:* The total award period under this competitive solicitation shall not exceed two
(2)years and eight
(8)months. MBDA anticipates a total of approximately $333,033 will be available in FY 2007 for Federal assistance to the Cleveland MBEC and to the Queens MBEC, and that a total of approximately $499,550 will be available for Federal assistance to these MBECs in FY 2008 and in FY 2009, respectively. Specific funding levels for the Cleveland MBEC and for the Queens MBEC are set forth in the below table. Applicants are hereby given notice that funds have not yet been appropriated for this program. Accordingly, MBDA issues this notice subject to the appropriations made available under the current continuing resolution, H.R. 5631, “Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007,” Public Law 109-289, as amended by H.J. Res. 100, Public Law 109-369 and H.J. Res. 102, Public Law 109-383. In no event will MBDA or the Department of Commerce be responsible for proposal preparation costs if this program fails to receive funding or is cancelled because of other agency priorities. Projects will be funded for no more than eight
(8)months during the first funding period (expected to run May 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007) and one year at a time thereafter (January 1, 200x through December 31, 200x). Applicants must submit project plans and budgets for each of the three funding periods. Project proposals accepted for funding will not compete for funding in subsequent budget periods within the approved award period. Second and third year funding will depend upon the MBEC achieving a minimal “Satisfactory” performance rating by the award recipient in each preceding year. Recommendations for second year funding are evaluated based on a “Satisfactory” mid-year performance rating (e.g., May 1-August 31) and/or a combination of mid-year and year-to date (e.g., May 1-November 30) “Satisfactory” performance rating. Recommendations for third year funding are evaluated based on a “Satisfactory” mid-year performance rating (i.e., January 1-June 30) and/or combination of mid-year and cumulative third quarter (i.e., January 1-September 30) “Satisfactory” performance rating. Failure to achieve a “Satisfactory” performance rating may be cause for project termination. All funding periods are subject to the availability of funds to support the continuation of the project, as well as to Department of Commerce and MBDA priorities. Publication of this notice does not obligate the Department of Commerce or MBDA to award any specific cooperative agreement or to obligate all or any part of available funds. The maximum Federal funding amounts for each project year are shown below (MBDA requires award recipients to provide a minimum twenty percent (20%) non-federal cost share): Project name May 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007 Total cost ($) Federal share ($) Non-Federal share ($) (20% min.) January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008 Total cost ($) Federal share ($) Non-Federal share ($) (20% min.) January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009 Total cost ($) Federal share ($) Non-Federal share ($) (20% min.) Cleveland MBEC 194,000 155,200 38,800 291,000 232,800 58,200 291,000 232,800 58,200 Queens MBEC 222,389 177,833 44,555 333,583 266,750 66,833 333,583 266,750 66,833 Authority: Executive Order 11625 and 15 U.S.C. 1512. *Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA):* 11.800, Minority Business Enterprise Center
(MBEC)Program. *Eligibility:* For-profit entities (including sole-proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations), non-profit organizations, state and local government entities, American Indian Tribes, and educational institutions are eligible to operate MBECs. Applicants receiving three
(3)consecutive funding award cycles (beginning 2007 through 2015) will not be eligible to receive an award in 2016 (and thereafter). *Program Description:* MBDA is soliciting applications from organizations to operate a Minority Business Enterprise Center
(MBEC)(formerly a Minority Business Development Center). The MBEC Program requires MBEC staff to provide standardized business assistance services to minority firms with $500,000 or more in annual revenues and/or “rapid-growth potential” minority businesses (“Strategic Growth Initiative or “SGI” firms) directly; to develop a network of strategic partnerships; and to provide strategic business consulting. This is a fee for service program, therefore, the MBEC is required to charge client fees. These requirements will be used to generate increased results with respect to financing and contracts awarded to minority-owned firms and are a key component of this program. The MBEC Program will concentrate on serving SGI firms capable of generating significant employment and long-term economic growth. The MBEC program shall continue to leverage telecommunications technology, including the Internet, and a variety of online/computer-based resources to dramatically increase the level of service that the MBEC can provide to minority-owned firms. The MBEC program incorporates an entrepreneurial approach to building market stability and improving the quality of services delivered. This strategy expands the reach of the MBEC by requiring project operators to develop and build upon strategic alliances with public and private sector partners, as a means of serving SGI firms within the project's geographic service area. In addition, MBDA will establish specialized business consulting training programs to support the MBEC client assistance services. These MBEC training programs are designed specifically to foster growth assistance to its clients. The MBEC will also encourage increased collaboration and client/non-client referrals among the MBDA-sponsored networks. This will provide a comprehensive approach to serving the emerging sector of the minority business community. The MBEC will operate through the use of trained professional business consultants who will assist minority entrepreneurs through direct client engagements. Entrepreneurs eligible for assistance under the MBEC Program are African Americans, Puerto Ricans, Spanish-speaking Americans, Aleuts, Asian and Pacific Islander Americans, Asian Indians, Native Americans, Eskimos and Hasidic Jews. As part of its strategy for continuous improvement, the MBEC shall expand its delivery capacity to *all* minority firms (as defined in the FFO), with greater emphasis on SGI firms capable of impacting economic growth and employment. MBDA wants to ensure that MBEC clients are receiving a consistent level of service throughout its funded network. To this end, MBDA will require MBEC consultants to attend training course(s) designed to achieve standardized services and quality expectations. Please refer to the FFO for additional programmatic information. *Match Requirements:* MBDA requires award recipients to provide a minimum twenty percent (20%) non-federal cost share for each of the three program years. Cost sharing is the portion of the project cost not borne by the Federal Government. Applicants must meet this requirement in
(1)cash contributions;
(2)non-cash applicant contributions; or
(3)third party in-kind contributions. Bonus points will be awarded for cost sharing exceeding 20 percent that is applied on the following scale: more than 20%-less than 25%—1 point; 25% or more-less than 30%—2 points; 30% or more-less than 35%—3 points; 35% or more-less than 40%—4 points; and, 40% or more—5 points. Applicants must provide a detailed explanation of how the cost-sharing requirement will be met. The MBEC must charge client fees for services rendered. Client fees shall be used towards meeting cost share requirements. Client fees applied directly to the award's cost sharing requirement must be used in furtherance of the program objectives. *Evaluation Criteria:* Applications will be evaluated and selected for funding based on the following criteria. An application must receive at least 70% of the total points available for *each* evaluation criterion, in order for the application to be considered for funding. The maximum number of total points for each evaluation criterion is provided below. The number of points assigned to each evaluation criterion will be determined on a competitive basis by the MBDA review panel based on the quality of the application with respect to each criterion. The maximum total of points that can be earned is 105 including bonus points for related non-federal cost sharing, except when oral presentations are made by applicants. If oral presentations are made (see paragraph 5 below), the maximum total of points that can be earned is 115. 1. *Applicant Capability* (40 points). The applicant's proposal will be evaluated with respect to the applicant firm's experience and expertise in providing the work requirements listed. Specifically, the proposals will be evaluated as follows: • MBE Community—experience in and knowledge of the minority business sector and strategies for enhancing its growth and expansion; particular emphasis shall be on expanding SGI firms (4 points); • Business Consulting—experience in and knowledge of business consulting of SGI firms (5 points); • Financing—experience in and knowledge of the preparation and formulation of successful financial transactions (5 points); • Procurements and Contracting—experience in and knowledge of the public and private sector contracting opportunities for minority businesses, as well as demonstrated expertise in assisting MBEs into supply chains (5 points); • Financing Networks—resources and professional relationships within the corporate, banking and investment community that may be beneficial to minority-owned firms (5 points); • Establishment of a Self-Sustainable Service Model—summary plan to establish a self-sustainable model for continued services to the MBE community beyond the MBDA funding cycle (3 points); • MBE Advocacy—experience and expertise in advocating on behalf of minority businesses, both as to specific transactions in which a minority business seeks to engage, and as to broad market advocacy for the benefit of the minority community at large (3 points); and • Key Staff—assessment of the qualifications, experience and proposed role of staff who will operate the MBEC. In particular, an assessment will be made to determine whether proposed key staff possesses the expertise in utilizing information systems and the ability to successfully deliver services (10 points). 2. *Resources (20 points).* The applicant's proposal will be evaluated according to the following criteria: • Resources—discuss those resources (not included as part of the cost-sharing arrangement) that will be used, including (but not limited to) existing prior and/or current data lists that will serve in fostering immediate success for the MBEC (8 points); • Location—Applicant must indicate if it shall establish a location for the Center that is separate and apart from any existing offices in the geographic service area (2 points); • Partners—discuss how you plan to establish and maintain the network of five
(5)Strategic Partners and how these partners will support the MBEC to meet its performance objectives (5 points); and • Equipment—discuss how you plan to accomplish the computer hardware and software requirements (5 points). 3. *Techniques and Methodologies (20 points).* The applicant's proposal will be evaluated as follows: • Performance Measures—relate each performance measure to the financial, information and market resources available in the geographic service area to the applicant (including existing client list) and how the goals will be met (marketing plan). Specific attention should be placed on matching performance outcomes (as described under “Geographic Service Areas and Performance Goals” of the FFO) with client service (billable) hours. The applicant should consider existing market conditions and its strategy to achieve the goal (10 points); • Plan of Action—provide specific detail on how the applicant will start operations. The MBEC shall have thirty
(30)days to become fully operational after an award is made. Fully operational means that all staff are hired, all signs are up, all items of furniture and equipment are in place and operational, all necessary forms are developed (e.g., client engagement letters, other standard correspondence, etc.), and the center is ready to open its doors to the public (5 points); and • Work Requirement Execution Plan—The applicant will be evaluated on how effectively and efficiently all staff time will be used to achieve the work requirements (5 points). 4. *Proposed Budget and Supporting Budget Narrative (20 points).* The applicant's proposal will be evaluated on the following sub-criteria: • Reasonableness, allowability and allocability of costs. All of the proposed expenditures must be discussed and the budget line item narrative must match the proposed budget. Fringe benefits and other percentage item calculations must match the proposed line item on the budget. (5 points); • Proposed cost sharing of 20% is required. The non-Federal share must be adequately documented, including how client fees will be used to meet the cost-share (5 points); and • Performance Based Budget. Discuss how the budget is related to the accomplishment of the work requirements and the performance measures. Provide a budget narrative that clearly shows the connections (10 points). Proposals with cost sharing which exceeds 20% will be awarded bonus points on the following scale: More than 20%-less than 25%—1 point; 25% or more-less than 30%—2 points; 30% or more-less than 35%—3 points; 35% or more-less than 40%—4 points; and 40% or more—5 points. 5. *Oral Presentation—Optional (10 points)* . Oral presentations are held only when determined by MBDA. When the merit review by the panel results in applications scoring 70% or more of the available points for each criterion, MBDA may request all those applicants to develop and provide an oral presentation. This presentation will be used to establish a final evaluation and rating. The applicant's presentation will be evaluated on the following sub-criteria:
(a)The extent to which the presentation demonstrates how the applicant will effectively and efficiently assist MBDA in the accomplishment of its mission (2 points);
(b)The extent to which the presentation demonstrates business operating priorities designed to manage a successful MBEC (2 points);
(c)The extent to which the presentation demonstrates a management philosophy that achieves an effective balance between micromanagement and complete autonomy for its Project Director (2 points);
(d)The extent to which the presentation demonstrates robust search criteria for the identification of a Project Director (1 point);
(e)The extent to which the presentation demonstrates effective employee recruitment and retention policies and procedures (1 point); and,
(f)The extent to which the presentation demonstrates a competitive and innovative approach to exceeding performance requirements (2 points). Review and Selection Process 1. *Initial Screening.* Prior to the formal paneling process, each application will receive an initial screening to ensure that all required forms, signatures and documentation are present. 2. *Panel Review.* Each application will receive an independent, objective review by a panel qualified to evaluate the applications submitted. MBDA anticipates that the review panel will be made up of at least three independent reviewers (all Federal employees) who will review all applications based on the above evaluation criteria. Each reviewer will evaluate and provide a score for each proposal. In order for an application to be considered for funding, it shall need to achieve 70% of the available points for each criterion. Failure to achieve these results will automatically deem the application as unsuccessful. 3. *Oral Presentation—Optional.* When the merit review by the panel results in applications scoring 70% or more of the available points for each criterion, MBDA may request all those applicants to develop and provide an oral presentation. The applicants may receive up to 10 additional points based on the presentation and content presented. If a formal presentation is requested, the applicants will receive a formal communication (via standard mail, e-mail or fax) from MBDA indicating the time and date for the presentation. In-person presentations are not mandatory but are encouraged; telephonic presentations are acceptable. Applicants will be asked to submit a power point presentation (or equivalent) to MBDA that addresses the oral presentation criteria (see above, Evaluation Criteria, item 5. Oral Presentation—Optional). This presentation must be submitted at least 24 hours before the scheduled date and time of the presentation. The presentation will be made to the National Director (or his/her designee) and/or up to three senior MBDA staff who did not serve on the merit evaluation panel. The oral panel members may ask follow-up questions after the presentation. MBDA will provide the teleconference dial-in number and pass code. Each finalist will present to MBDA staff only; other applicants are not permitted to listen (and/or watch). The oral panel members shall score each presentation in accordance with the oral presentation criteria. An average score shall be compiled and added to the original score of the panel review. All costs pertaining to this presentation shall be borne by the applicant. MBEC award funds may *not* be used as a reimbursement for this presentation. MBDA will not accept any requests or petitions for reimbursement. 4. *Final Recommendation.* The National Director of MBDA makes the final recommendation to the Department of Commerce Grants Officer regarding the funding of applications, taking into account the selection criteria as outlined in this Announcement and the following:
(a)The evaluations and rankings of the independent review panel and the evaluation(s) of the oral presentations, if applicable;
(b)Funding priorities. The National Director (or his/her designee) reserves the right to conduct a site visit (subject to the availability of funding) to applicant organizations receiving at least 70% of the total points available for each evaluation criterion, in order to make a better assessment of the organization's capability to achieve the funding priorities; and (c)The availability of funding. *Intergovernmental Review:* Applications under this program are not subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” *Limitation of Liability:* Applicants are hereby given notice that funds have not yet been appropriated for this program. Accordingly, MBDA issues this notice subject to the appropriations made available under the current continuing resolution, H.R. 5631, “Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2007,” Public Law 109-289, as amended by H.J. Res. 100, Public Law 109-369 and H.J. Res. 102, Public Law 109-383. In no event will the Department of Commerce or MBDA be responsible for proposal preparation costs if this program fails to receive funding or is cancelled because of other agency priorities. Publication of this announcement does not oblige the Department of Commerce or MBDA to award any specific project or to obligate any available funds. *Universal Identifier:* Applicants should be aware that they will be required to provide a Dun and Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering system
(DUNS)number during the application process. See the June 27, 2003 **Federal Register** notice (68 FR 38402) for additional information. Organizations can receive a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free DUNS Number request line at 1-866-705-5711 or by accessing the Grants.gov Web site at *http://www.Grants.gov.* *Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements:* The Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements contained in the **Federal Register** notice of December 30, 2004 (69 FR 78389) are applicable to this solicitation. *Paperwork Reduction Act:* This document contains collection-of-information requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). The use of standard forms 424, 424A, 424B, SF-LLL, and CD-346 have been approved by OMB under the respective control numbers 0348-0043, 0348-0044, 0348-0040, 0348-0046, and 0605-0001. Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, no person is required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection displays a currently valid OMB control Number. *Executive Order 12866:* This notice has been determined to be not significant for purposes of E.O. 12866. *Administrative Procedure Act/Regulatory Flexibility Act:* Prior notice for an opportunity for public comment is not required by the Administrative Procedure Act for rules concerning public property, loans, grants, benefits and contracts (5 U.S.C. 533(a)(2)). Because notice and opportunity for comment are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 533 or any other law, the analytical requirements of the regulatory flexibility Act (5 U.S.C 601 *et seq.* ) are inapplicable. Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis is not required and has not been prepared. Dated: January 29, 2007. Ronald N. Langston, National Director, Minority Business Development Agency. [FR Doc. E7-1808 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-21-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [030602141-7006-46] California Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) Program, Adult and Community Watershed Education in the Monterey Bay; Extension of Application Deadline AGENCY: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: NOAA publishes this notice to extend the solicitation period for applications for the California Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) Program, Adult and Community Watershed Education in the Monterey Bay which was originally announced in the **Federal Register** on December 27, 2006. The solicitation period for this program was extended to provide the public more time to submit proposals. DATES: Proposals must be received no later than 5 p.m., Pacific standard time, March 1, 2007. ADDRESSES: It is strongly encouraged that applications submitted in response to this announcement are submitted through the Grants.gov Web site. Electronic access to the Full Funding Opportunity Announcement for this program is available via the Grants.gov Web site: *http://www.grants.gov.* Applicants must comply with all requirements contained in the Full Funding Opportunity Announcement. Paper applications (a signed original and two copies) may also be submitted to the following address: Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, 299 Foam Street, Monterey, CA 93940. No facsimile or electronic mail applications will be accepted. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Seaberry Nachbar, National Marine Sanctuary Program, 299 Foam Street, Monterey, CA 93940, or by phone at
(831)647-4204. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: NOAA publishes this notice to extend the solicitation period on the California Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) Program, Adult and Community Watershed Education in the Monterey Bay which was originally announced in the **Federal Register** on December 27, 2006 (71 FR 77727). NOAA extends the solicitation period from February 1, 2007 to March 1, 2007 to provide the public more time to submit proposals, as the Full Funding Opportunity was not available for review at the time **Federal Register** Notice was published. All other requirements for this solicitation remain the same. Funding Availability This solicitation announces that approximately $100,000 may be available in FY 2007 in award amounts to be determined by the proposals and available funds. The National Marine Sanctuary Program anticipates that approximately 2-4 grants will be awarded with these funds and that typical project awards will range from $10,000 to $50,000. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1440, 15 U.S.C. 1540. *Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance:* 11.429. Eligibility Eligible applicants are institutions of higher education, nonprofit, organizations, state or local government agencies, and Indian tribal governments. The Department of Commerce/National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (DOC/NOAA) is strongly committed to broadening the participation of historically black colleges and universities, Hispanic serving institutions, tribal colleges and universities, and institution that service undeserved areas. *Cost Sharing Requirements:* No cost sharing is required under this program; however, the National Marine Sanctuary Program strongly encourages applicants to share as much of the costs of the award as possible. Funds from other Federal awards are not considered matching funds. The nature of the contribution (cash versus in-kind) and the amount of matching funds will be taken into consideration in the selection process with cash having priority over in-kind as the method of contribution. Intergovernmental Review Applications under this program are not subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” Evaluation Criteria and Selection Procedures NOAA published its agency-wide solicitation entitled—Omnibus Notice Announcing the Availability of Grant Funds for Fiscal Year 2006—for projects for Fiscal Year 2006 in the **Federal Register** on June 30, 2005 (70 FR 37766). The evaluation criteria and selection procedures for projects contained in that omnibus notice are applicable to this solicitation. Copies of this notice are available on the Internet at *http://www.ofa.noaa.gov/%7Eamd/SOLINDEX.HTML* . Further details on evaluation and selection criteria can be found in the full funding opportunity announcement. Pre-Award Activities If applicants incur any costs prior to an award being made, the do so solely at their own risk of not being reimbursed by the Government. Notwithstanding any verbal assurance that may have been received, there is no obligation to the applicant on the part of Department of Commerce to cover pre-award costs. Limitation of Liability NOAA must analyze the potential environmental impacts, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), for applicant projects or proposals which are seeking NOAA federal funding opportunities. Detailed information on NOAA compliance with NEPA can be found at the following NOAA NEPA Web site: ( *http://www.nepa.noaa.gov/* ), including our NOAA Administrative Order 216-6 for NEPA, ( *http://www.nepa.noaa.gov/NA0216_6_TOC.pdf* ), and the Council on Environmental Quality implementation regulations, ( *http://ceq.eh.doe.gov/nepa/regs/ceq.toc_ceq.htm* ). Consequently, as part of an applicant's package, and under their description of their program activities, applicants are required to provide detailed information on the activities to be conducted, locations, sites, species and habitat to be affected, possible construction activities, and any environmental concerns that may exist (e.g., the use and disposal of hazardous or toxic chemicals introduction of non-indigenous species, impacts to endangered and threatened species, aquaculture projects, and impacts to coral reef systems). In addition to providing specific information that will serve as the basis for any required impact analyses, applicants may also be requested to assist to NOAA in drafting of an environmental assessment, if NOAA determines an assessment is required. Applicants will also be required to cooperate with NOAA in identifying feasible measures to reduce or avoid any identified adverse environmental impacts of their proposal. The failure to do so shall be grounds for the denial of an application. In some cases if additional information is required after application is selected funds can be withheld by the Grants Officer under a special award condition requiring the recipient to submit additional environmental compliance information sufficient to enable NOAA to make an assessment on any impacts that a project may have on the environment. Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements The Department of Commerce Pre-Award Notification Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements contained in the **Federal Register** Notice of December 30, 2004 (69 FR 78389) are applicable to this solicitation. Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA)This notification involves collection-of-information requirements subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act. the use of Standard Forms 424, 424A, 424B, and SF-LLL and CD-346 has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget
(OMB)under control numbers 0348-0043, 0348-0044, 0348-0040 and 0348-0046 and 0604-0001, respectively. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person is required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the requirements of the PRA unless that collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number. Executive Order 12866 It has been determined that this notice is not significant for purposes of Executive Order 12866. Executive Order 13132 (Federalism) Prior notice and an opportunity for public comment are not required by the Administrative Procedure Act or any other law for rules concerning public property, loans, grants, benefits, and contracts (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). Because notice and opportunity for comments are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). Because notice and opportunity for comments are not required pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 or any other law, the analytical requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 *et seq.* ) are inapplicable. Therefore, a regulatory flexibility analysis has not been prepared. Dated: January 26, 2007. Daniel J. Basta, Director, National Marine Sanctuary Program, National Ocean Service. [FR Doc. 07-461 Filed 2-1-07; 8:45 am]
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Traces to 24 documents
15 references not yet in our index
  • Pub. L. 107-273
  • 116 Stat. 1758
  • 41 CFR 102
  • 41 USC 47(a)(2)
  • 41 CFR 51
  • 41 USC 46-48c
  • Pub. L. 109-383
  • Pub. L. 109-289
  • 120 Stat. 1257
  • Pub. L. 108-373
  • 118 Stat. 1756
  • 291 F.3d 806
  • Pub. L. 109-369
  • 5 USC 533(a)(2)
  • 5 USC 533
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Fed. Reg.Notices
F. App'x291 F.3d 806
Pub. L.Pub. L. 107-273
Stat.116 Stat. 1758
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