December 2, 2004: 

Start date of January 1, 2005

We have been given a firm start date of January 1, 2005 by the NSF. You can
charge legitimate expenses incurred up to 90 days before the award date, using the 
OPAS system.

Fred is working on establishing the procedures for travel re-imbursement so
those that attended the workshop in Denver will be able to receive payment
for their expenses. More details will follow.

Although you probably won't be able to start hiring until the new
year, if necessary you can start expending for supplies, travel, etc.