The Internet edition of WLOX, dated today (05/26/04) says "If the Veteran's Administration goes through with its plans to close the Gulfport VA, the University of Southern Mississippi wants to lease the hospital. University president, Dr. Shelby Thames, officially notified the VA of his intentions Monday." The WLOX item goes on to say that "Part of the facility would be used for training through USM's nursing program."