The Chairman's Blog

Pressing for Action in Baltimore

2009-11-12T13:21:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Well, I am off to Baltimore tonight to give my presentation to the National Working Group for Toxic Emergencies tomorrow. As I was compiling the data, a very, very deep sadness came over me again. This should have never happened - no one deserves to be harmed in such a way!! Knowing all I know now and the fact that this is so wrong to the depth of my being - I am totally focused on what the goal must be and it must be that the Government realign itself with the citizens they serve and do everything in their power to provide protection. Our founding fathers would be horrified to see that our Government has aligned itself with corporations.

As I was talking to Ben Nelms yesterday of The Citizen Newspaper, he reminded me of the FIFRA Act written in 1948 which inherently protects the corporation so it will always has the first out and it leaves it up to the citizen to prove harm. So this is what we are up against when all is said and done - we must turn our nation back towards the care of the people. I know this appears a daunting task but I see more and more people willing to take a stand and I truly think the climate is changing. America has the potential to stand for the higher good of all but it will only be if we decide that change is needed!!! I have made my decision - how about you?

We still need numerous signatures for our petition!! I am pasting the link once again below. Thanks to all those who have signed so far.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/toxicgeorgia/index.html

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Please Sign Petition

2009-11-05T08:04:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Please see this vital petition that needs your signature. We need a thousand signatures by next Wednesday so that it can be forwarded to our Governor, State House and Senate, Mayor of Atlanta and City Council.

Please forward this to all you know. There are links provided to educate the public as to the need for this petition. The absolute worst thing we can do is standby and do nothing. Georgia is now set for the perfect storm - there will be no high-end corporations settling here due to this report - our only commerce will be toxic industries and we have an EPD Director now in place who will easily permit these type of companies. We must take a stand for not only our physical and economic well being but for generations to come.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/toxicgeorgia/

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Forbes - Atlanta Most Toxic City in the U.S.

2009-11-04T08:57:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

I am not stunned at all by the report below. It is not only Atlanta - it is the entire State of Georgia. Our legislators have created an absolute nightmare for us all and it has got to stop!!!! We must wake-up!!! Please send this out to everyone you know - we must elect officials who care about the actual people of Georgia. The perfect storm has been created by the Governor - his recent appointment of an Environmental Protection Director whose firm is a main contributor in seeing to it that Georgia is over-run by toxic waste!! Please see both links below - the Forbes Report and the clip from WSB.

Your neighbor,

Connie

http://www.forbes.com/2009/11/02/toxic-cities-pollution-lifestyle-real-estate-toxic-cities.html

http://www.wsbtv.com/video/21456595/

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Taking a Stand

2009-10-29T07:17:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

It was another one of those moments since our community event in 2006 that a word of truth had to be spoken. The TV cameras arrived yesterday afternoon at the National Environmental Public Health Conference during the "Listening Session" where communities and governing bodies come together to be heard as to changes they feel need to be made in the handling of toxic events. Yet the Director of the ATSDR and the host of the listening session - Dr. Howard Frumkin - did not stay to listen which tells me more than I need to know. So much happened during the meeting and the conference at large that I will need to write an email at length over the weekend. Channel 2 stayed and filmed our community story and then interviewed me more candidly outside the conference doors. Just before we started filming, Tom Jones got the news that the Department of Natural Resources Board confirmed the nomination of Allen Barnes as the Director of the Environmental Protection Division. We were both stunned but felt it was important to go through with the story anyway. It is also my understanding that he starts the job today. So why the rush? Why was there no time given for public comment about this appointment? I am scared to see in the coming months the actual outcomes of his appointment - not being protected but further harmed is my fear.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

UPDATE

2009-10-27T17:33:00.000-05:00

Neighbor:

Very important - Tom Jones from Channel Two wants to interview me tomorrow at 10:30 but I told him it would be even better if he was at the Listening Session tomorrow at the Environmental Conference at 2pm. He can film our story again and then interview us all together. So you must come and stand with me!!!!! Go downtown on I 85 to exit 248 C stay to your left and get on International and park at the $3.00 parking at the first hotel on your left and then walk across the street to the Sheraton. It is very easy to get to - trust me.

I hope to see you there!!!! It will be in the Grand Ballroom on the second floor.

Your very angry neighbor,

Connie

National Conversation Public Listening Session

A National Conversation Listening Session will take place on Wednesday, October 28, 2009 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the Athens Room of the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel (Sheraton Atlanta Hotel / 165 Courtland Street NE / Atlanta, GA 30303).

Conference participants and interested members of the public can attend this open, facilitated discussion to exchange ideas and explore issues related to the National Conversation. Potential discussion topics include the National Conversation structure and process; lessons learned from the nation's historical approach to public health and chemical exposures; the nation's current shortcomings, gaps, and redundancies; and high priority options for better protecting the public from harmful chemical exposures. NCEH/ATSDR staff, RESOLVE staff, and others involved in the National Conversation project will engage in the discussion and collect participant input. This event is free and open to the public.

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Important Announcement about new EPD Director

2009-10-27T15:01:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Neighbor:

I had to take a moment out of my day to get this to you!!! Please read below - this is the firm that represented PSC against our community!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Your neighbor,

Connie

Begin forwarded message:

K&S lawyer will head EPD
Perdue recommends Allen Barnes . . . (Oct. 26, 2009)

Gov. Sonny Perdue has recommended the appointment of F. Allen Barnes, a partner with the King & Spalding law firm, to replace Carol Couch as director of the state's Environmental Protection Division (EPD).

Perdue's nomination is expected to be approved at Wednesday's meeting of the

Georgia Board of Natural Resources - whose members include another King & Spalding partner, Dwight Davis.

The appointment of Barnes had been widely rumored among environmentalists and is seen as a show of support by Perdue for the energy industry, especially the power companies that want to build coal-fired generation facilities in Georgia.

"This is a coup d'etat," said environmental lobbyist Neill Herring. "This is the Tanner-Barmeyer takeover of DNR-EPD moving into its completion phase,

less than two weeks after a K&S [King & Spalding] lawyer got put on the DNR Board. K&S is real worried about the two coal power plants they are representing, and are unwilling to take any more regulatory chances with EPD."

Herring was referring to former DNR commissioner Joe Tanner, who's now a powerful lobbyist for developers, and Patricia Barmeyer, a King & Spalding attorney who has represented the company trying to build the coal-fired Longleaf power plant in southwest Georgia.

Perdue's recent moves with the Department of Natural Resources, which includes EPD, appear to have put King & Spalding and its energy clients in the driver's seat where Georgia's environmental policy and regulation are concerned.

Davis, who has represented the gas marketing firm Scana for King & Spalding,

was appointed to the Board of Natural Resources by Perdue on Oct. 1. He will be able to vote on the confirmation of his colleague, Barnes, at Wednesday's board meeting.

Couch, the EPD director since 2003, abruptly announced her resignation last week and gave one week's notice of her departure, saying she would leave the

environmental agency as of Oct. 26. That cleared the way for Barnes to take

over the division immediately.

Barnes was chief of staff for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Region Four from 2002 to 2005, a region that covers eight southeastern states. As chief of staff Barnes worked with state environmental directors and with EPA's senior staff on regulatory, enforcement, permitting, and policy issues.

Before working at EPA, Barnes taught natural resource policy and law as an associate professor at Mississippi State University from 1996 to 2002.

"Allen brings a wealth of environmental and management experience to this position," Perdue said. "His impressive government and academic background ensures he will successfully lead EPD as they continue to be responsible stewards of our most precious natural resources."

C 2009 by Capitolimpact.com

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Free Webcast and Remember Your Voice is Needed

2009-10-25T19:42:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Neighbor:

I have returned today from a satellite forum on Toxic Mold - so much to do and so little time for all of our neighbors who recently experienced flooding. I want to remind you about your moment to speak this Wednesday at the National Conversation Listening Session - see below for details. Also, I am sending you a link for a free webcast of the keynote speakers at the National Conference on Public Health and the Environment. I am especially interested in hearing Tuesday morning's speeches - see that link as well for details. I hope to see as many as possible on Wednesday!!!

Your neighbor,

Connie

National Conversation Public Listening Session

Webcast Link - http://www.vodium.com/login.asp?lib=pn100753

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Your Voice is needed October 28th

2009-10-20T07:14:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

I participated in my first national conference call with the Chemical Emergencies Work Group for the National Conservation on Public Health and Chemical Exposures program. By the end of the 90 minute call, I had run my mouth so much about the chemical exposure incident in our community they asked me to do a presentation at our first face-to-face meeting in Baltimore next month.

At first, I was frustrated with myself for always having to call things like they are. But then I was glad I did. Because now we will finally get the opportunity to tell our story to some people who have the power to make a difference (such as Homeland Security - EPA and so many more).

Over the next few weeks, I will be working overtime to pull together a PowerPoint and a short film for my presentation. Luckily, I'll be able to use the information developed by Dr. Speaker and all of the material we compiled for our testimony at the State Capitol.

I will also be participating in the upcoming National Conference on Public Health and the Environment, which begins this Sunday here in Atlanta. I am including an email about the conference and I especially want to note that there will be a free listening session on Wednesday. This would be the perfect time for you to tell the CDC and Public Health exactly what went on in our community. It is also a time to make them aware of any other public health issues such as quarry residue inhalation and other housing issues such as mold. A victory for a public agency would be to have no public comments during the listening session. That would reinforce their position that change does not need to take place because they gave the public a chance to speak up and no one did so it must not be that big of a problem.

Make next Wednesday a priority -- they need to know we are still here!!!

Your neighbor,

Connie

P.S. Carol Couch has resigned as Director of the Environmental Protection Division and will be taking a position with UGA.

Constance (Biemiller) Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

National Conversation on Public Health and Chemical Exposures

October 2009 Project Update

Greetings,

Thank you for your interest in the National Conversation on Public Health and Chemical Exposures. Read on for the latest information about National Conversation activities and opportunities for you to get involved. As always, please e-mail nationalconversation@cdc.gov with any questions or comments.

Project Status

As you may know, the National Conversation project was launched with a day-long meeting on June 26, 2009. Meeting summary information is available on the National Conversation project Web site. Since the kick-off meeting, project work groups have stood up to address the following topics related to public health and chemical exposures: monitoring, scientific understanding, policies and practices, chemical emergencies, serving communities, and education and communication. An explanation of the membership selection process and membership lists for each work group are posted on the project Web site. Work groups will meet monthly, either by teleconference or in person, over the course of the project. Initial teleconferences are currently underway and the first face-to-face meetings will be held in November in Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD. Meetings will be open to members of the public by request on a space available basis. Each work group will prepare a report for inclusion in a final action agenda.

In addition to work groups, a project Leadership Council has convened and will meet for the first time in December. The Leadership Council includes a wide range of expertise and perspectives that will provide project guidance throughout the process and will develop the final action agenda. A current list of Leadership Council members is posted on the project Web site.

Check the project Web site regularly for project updates.

Opportunities for Involvement

2009 National Environmental Public Health Conference

The 2009 National Environmental Public Health Conference, taking place October 26 – 28, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia, will feature several activities related to the National Conversation:

National Conversation Public Listening Session

"Protecting the Public from Toxic Exposures" Plenary

In addition to many relevant breakout sessions, conference participants can attend "Protecting the Public from Toxic Exposures," a plenary session on Tuesday, October 27 from 8:30 to 10:30 am. Dr. Howard Frumkin, M.D., M.P.H, Director, National Center for Environmental Health/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and National Conversation co-chair; Paul Anastas, Ph.D., Director, Center for Green Chemistry and Green Engineering & Teresa and H. John Heinz III Professor in the Practice of Chemistry for the Environment, Yale University; and Christine Norman, Director, Risk Assessment Bureau, Safe Environments Program, Health Canada will participate in this plenary.

Note: If you will not be attending the conference, keynotes and plenary sessions will also be available by live webcast. Please register for the conference webcast in advance.

National Conversation Booth

The conference exhibition will include a National Conversation project booth. Conference participants can stop by with any questions or comments on the project. Project staff will be available throughout the exhibition, and project co-chairs Dr. Howard Frumkin, Director, NCEH/ATSDR, and Nsedu Obot Witherspoon, Executive Director, Children's Environmental Health Network, are tentatively scheduled to be at the booth Tuesday, October 27 from 12:00 to 12:30 pm. Look for us just outside the exhibit hall at Booth 48.

Future Opportunities

Keep your eye out for more information about the National Conversation Community Conversation Toolkit and web discussion forums. We expect to implement both of these project components in early 2010.

Warmly,

The National Conversation project team

Learn more >>.

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The National Journey Begins

2009-09-23T06:52:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Well, it appears the first time I will meet the panel I am working with on Chemical Emergencies will be through a conference call the first week of October. I will then fly to Baltimore, Maryland in November for our first face-to-face meeting. I am so blessed that Ben Nelms wrote the article below that will come out in the paper today - he truly validates the impact I will be trying to make on this journey.

http://www.thecitizen.com/~citizen0/node/39498

Also, I am extremely excited about the impact that the Environmental Institute of Georgia is having on our local community with the upcoming dedication of the Fairburn Nature Preserve and our Rivers Alive cleanup. I encourage you all to visit our home page at www.eiog.org to learn more about all that is taking place to improve the quality of life of Georgians.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

A New Vision

2009-09-07T07:16:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

I had the privilege yesterday of going to Callaway Gardens – biking the trails, enjoying the beautiful scenery and at dusk watching the vividly colored hot air balloons glide over the tree canopies. I was reminded in all of this that the initial vision of the Callaway family is what made my day so possible. Vision followed by action that expands to incorporate the talents of others for the higher good is truly what makes all positive change materialize.

It was a vision of a community that made it possible to shut down the operations of the Philip Services Corporation. And, it is a vision that needs to dominate the National Chemical Emergencies Work Group. It could easily be said that there is no way this group will have a unified vision - especially when you look at the list below of those who will be serving. However, it will only take two or three to begin the vision of change.

I remember making a point to never take a tour of PSC or go to their website to see how big and mighty they were. I did not want anything to obstruct my vision and this will be my goal in this work group setting as well. I will keep thinking of the young families who I saw that very first day holding their shirts over their nose and mouth – especially the young children and babies who were having difficulty breathing. I will remember a standing room only crowd at Bethany United Methodist that was begging for answers as to why they were sick and no answers were given.

A vision of a new road map of action that will be outlined for any community harmed is what is needed. I am open to any and all suggestions as to how this should look. Please email me with what you would like our government to do within those first few days of toxic exposure. No thought is too small - send anything you feel would be of benefit. Our hearts and minds working together is what will make all the difference.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Chemical Emergencies Work Group

Andrea Kidd Taylor, Morgan State University, chair

Scott Deitchman, NCEH/ATSDR senior liaison

Dana Goodson, RESOLVE facilitator

Montrece Ransom, NCEH/ATSDR staff

Membership [pending confirmation]

Bill Benerman Denver Department of Environmental Health

Nathan Birnbaum, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

John Bresland, U.S. Chemical Safety Board

Susan Cibulsky & Amanda Niskar, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Kathleen Curtis, Clean New York

Jacque Darbonne, Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services

James Eaton, Maine Health and Environmental Testing Lab

Fleming Fallon, Bowling Green State University

Michael Greenberg, American Academy of Clinical Toxicology

James Griffin, American Chemistry Council

Joseph Hughes, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Nancy Hughes, American Nurses Association

James James, American Medical Association

Erik Janus, CropLife America

Kimberly Jennings, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Todd Jordon, Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Betsy Kagey, Georgia Division of Public Health

Mark Kirk, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

James Madsen, U.S. Army Medical Corps

Jacqueline McBride, Love, Peace and Prosperity International, Inc

Maureen Orr, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry

Paul Orum, NGO Chemical Safety Consultant

Susan Palchick, Hennepin County

Clark Phinney, Maine Oxy

Darius Sivin, International Union, UAW

Derek Swick, American Petroleum Institute

Constance Thomas, South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Anthony Tomassoni, Yale University School of Medicine

Wanda Welles, New York State Department of Health

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Panel for Chemical Emergencies

2009-08-27T17:28:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Neighbor:

I found out today that I have been selected for the National CDC/ATSDR Work Group to reform the way Chemical Emergencies are handled across the nation. This is absolute validation that you never know where life will take you and that our fight has not been in vain. I pray for the wisdom and clarity to always say the right words that will make a difference.

I am deeply concerned that only two community leaders were selected for this panel of 30. You would think they would at least have one for each state so I guess Dr. McBride and myself and will have to be loud enough for all of us - not a problem!!

Thank you for your many, many nominations. I am absolutely humbled and want to serve with integrity - knowing that I have your support means more than you know.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

$4 million

2009-08-24T18:10:00.001-05:00

Good Evening Neighbor:

First, let me say how thrilled I am that the $4 million was dispersed among our community last Thursday - I pray that it will benefit you all! You suffered way more than $4 million and I am supremely reminded of that on this anniversary of Clare Hindman's death - no amount of money will ever amend for her suffering. I am at the same time extremely saddened for our neighbors who so much needed the money as well but did not receive it because their home was not among the wind pattern on June 29, 2006. And, in this I say - where is justice???

I want to thank you for the wonderful emails thanking me for my efforts - however - the credit is absolutely not all mine. We have our stellar Task Force to thank along with Ben Nelms of the The Citizens Newspaper and the many, many people who have helped behind the scenes (true warriors who could not let their faces be known).

Please know that this fight is not finished and what has happened in the South Fulton and Fayette community should never be forgotten. I still await my appointment to the CDC's National Conversation on Public Health and Chemical Exposure and the wonderful work that is being done through the Environmental Institute of Georgia does nothing but propel our community forward to a broader vision.

Thank you for being my neighbor and thank you for putting up with three years of emails - I do not know when they will come to an end because there always seems to be something else that needs to be said!! Or at least I thinks so!! I think we have 500 to 1000 on this email list - I quit counting a long time ago. You all are treasures and I always enjoy hearing from you.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Mold Emergency and Settlement

2009-08-17T18:36:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Neighbor:

Well, once again there was an urgent need today to contact the Environmental Protection Division, Georgia Department of Health and UGA Department of Veterinary Sciences. A neighbor in Cobb County is presently in the ER for mold exposure - also, her dog suddenly passed away this morning. We are trying to do all we can to make the agencies who are hired to protect us responsive with regard to immediate treatment for toxic exposure. The Coles have been living in a tent and staying with friends and family for months due to the mold in their home - they only returned this weekend so that their children could start school. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers in the coming hours.

Several of you have called with regard to the Philip Services Corporation settlement checks and it is my understanding they were mailed out today. As you all know, I have not been heavily involved in the settlement case so my information is very limited.

I hope you all are enjoying this beautiful summer - it is amazing the difference three years can make.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Update on PSC Settlement checks

2009-08-03T07:14:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Please see the email below from Scott Zahler regarding settlement checks. I know that many of you have been wondering the status on this - should you have questions about your check etc... please contact Scott Zahler - his contact information is below as well.

Have a wonderful day and I hope to get back with you soon with regard to the D.C panel - I do not have any word as of yet as to my acceptance. I want to thank the many of you who attempted to send in a nomination - there were problems in registering your vote so the outcome will be interesting.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

I've been fielding many calls about the status of the case so I really
appreciate your getting the word out. There were no appeals. Checks will
be mailed out by August 17th. If you need any further information, please
let me know. Thank you and the Task Force for all your hard work on this
matter.

Scott M. Zahler

Goetz I Zahler, LLC

900 Circle 75 Parkway

Suite 700

Atlanta, Georgia 30339

770-431-1107 Direct Dial

770-431-1101 Fax

smzahler@goetz-zahler.com Email

www.goetz-zahler.com Website

Update on Nomination

2009-07-09T07:47:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

I know that many of you are having problems registering your nomination through the ATSDR website - so instead please email Robert Zimmerman robert.zimmerman@state.de.us with your nomination along with a brief reason why you think I should serve on the work group panel. You can just paste this information to the email and then add your comments.

Name:	Constance Thomas
Title:	Chair
Organization/Affiliation:	South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force
Address:	P.O. Box 1593
	Fairburn, GA 30213

Also, the replay of the webcast is now available. The session that I told you about where we were able to demand that our voices be heard is below in the Plenary Session - click that link - give your name and email and you will be able to view it. What these community leaders have to say is so vital and clearly another reason why we must be a part of this work group panel.

Have a wonderful day.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Please note the following message is being re-sent to make the participant list more easily accessible.

Greetings,
This message provides follow-up information on the June 26, 2009 National Conversation on Public Health and Chemical Exposures kick-off meeting held in Washington, DC.

Participant List
A list of meeting participants is now available [here].

View the Webcast
The archive of the webcast of the National Conversation kick-off meeting is now available for viewing. The archive includes the morning portions of the meeting, covering introductory remarks by Gail Bingham, RESOLVE facilitator, Nsedu Obot Witherspoon, project co-chair and Dr. Howard Frumkin, project co-chair; Dr. Frumkin's presentation; presentations by keynote speakers Lisa Jackson, U.S. EPA Administrator, and Linda Birnbaum, NIEHS Director, as well as comments and questions from meeting attendees.

To view the introductory remarks and keynote presentations click [here].
To view the plenary question and comment period, click [here].

Work Group Membership Nominations
As a reminder, work group membership nominations will be accepted until July 20, 2009. Please submit nominations at www.2009nationalconversation.com.

For more information on the National Conversation, visit www.atsdr.cdc.gov/nationalconversation/.

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Nomination for National Conversation Work Group

2009-07-08T07:19:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

I have decided to submit my name for nomination to be a part of the National Conversation Work Group and I would ask - if you have a moment - please submit my name as well. It really only takes a couple of minutes - I was shocked that they did not want more information. Here is is my registration name etc.. below. My first committee choice is Policy and Practices and my second committee choice is Serving Communities. All nominations must be in by July 20th.

It is important that we continue to have a voice in this forum!!

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Nomination Summary

Name:	Constance Thomas
Title:	Chair
Organization/Affiliation:	South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force
Address:	P.O. Box 1593
	Fairburn, GA 30213

Begin forwarded message:

From: "National Conversation (CDC)" <nationalconversation@cdc.gov>
Date: July 6, 2009 4:20:25 PM EDT
To: robert.zimmerman@state.de.us
Subject: National Conversation Work Group Nomination Process: Deadline 07/20/09

Good afternoon,
**Please distribute widely**
National Conversation on Public Health and Chemical Exposures
Call for Work Group Membership Nominations
Submit nominations at
www.2009nationalconversation.com
Deadline: July 20, 2009
RESOLVE, a non-profit organization specializing in consensus building in public decision making, and CDC's National Center for Environmental Health and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (NCEH/ATSDR) are currently accepting nominations for membership on the National Conversation on Public Health and Chemical Exposures work groups.
We are seeking individuals with expertise, experience and/or interest in the following work group topics:

Monitoring: collecting information on chemical use, exposure pathways, exposure levels, and health outcomes;

Scientific Understanding: filling knowledge gaps on the health effects of chemicals;

Policies and Practices: reducing harmful chemical exposures and adverse health outcomes, eliminating inequities, and spurring the development and use of safer alternatives;

Chemical Emergencies: preventing, preparing for, and responding to acute chemical incidents;

Serving Communities: addressing local chemical exposure concerns to promote environmental justice and improve health, and

Education and Communication: ensuring a well-informed public and a competent network of health care providers.

Please visit www.2009nationalconversation.com to learn more about work group responsibilities and to submit a work group membership nomination.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF NOMINATIONS – JULY 20, 2009
Our apologies if this information has already reached you.

FREEDOM

2009-07-03T07:28:00.001-05:00

Good morning neighbor:

I wake today thanking God for my community. I was sent this video from a friend who lives in Arizona - it was recorded by a Fayette County officer who helped to escort the body of our fallen soldier Staff Sgt. Beale on June 11, 2009. I know many of you participated in this procession and I am so very proud to call you my neighbor. I often think about the opportunities I have had to speak my mind about the inadequacies of our government before 100s of people and I could very well be beaten, tortured or put to death for doing so if my freedom was not protected - as we have seen happen to so many beloved people in China and Iran to just name a few. Thank you to all the men and women who have given so much to make FREEDOM possible in this nation.

http://blip.tv/play/AYGJ5h6YgmE

Have a blessed July 4th!!

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Attending the National Conversation

2009-06-29T08:29:00.000-05:00

Good morning neighbor:

Well, it has taken me several days to even get my mind around what really happened while I was in D.C. I had several meetings prior and around the actual event and those meetings alone could prove to be truly ground breaking in the environmental realm - more to come on this as discussions progress.

The National Conversation Conference was held at the national headquarters for the Environmental Protection Agency - one had to go through security to even get to the auditorium. The morning began with speeches from Ms. Jackson (the Obama appointed Administrative head of the Environmental Protection Agency), Linda S. Birnbaum, Director, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health and Howard Frumkin, Director, National Center for Environmental Health/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.. There were microphones on stands on each side of the audience as if they were going to take questions or hear remarks. However, after hearing these speeches and then being told the agenda for the rest of the day, it became clear that there would not be any public input. I knew that only the morning session would be on webcast and that communities across America were watching to have their voice heard and I became extremely uncomfortable with the whole arrangement. My legs began to shake as they called for a 15 minute break - I needed to decide what my next course of action would be but before I could think a woman arose in the crowd and began speaking truth to power. She demanded to be heard and asked Director Frumkin why has he not responded to the cries of poisoned communities - she demanded to know. I went directly and stood with her giving her what support I could. When she ended her passionate remarks I began to speak out - I do not even remember all that I said but I do know I asked that this meeting be rearranged so that community members could go to the microphone during the morning webcast and let our voices be heard and to my amazement they agreed to change it up. Oh, how I wish the cameras were running during this time - it was so important!!!

They did follow through with allowing us to the microphones once the cameras were rolling again. I think I was third to speak. I firmly requested that the ATSDR Health Consultation and Assessment no longer be used and I requested we leave that day with this new mandate in place. These assessments are found to be faulty by design and do nothing but bring about further harm to communities across America as they try to advocate for their restoration and healing in the legal realm and it cuts off any possibility of being followed medically for years to come. (I must note here that there were 400 in attendance - with approximately 10 of us from any communities - the rest of the audience worked for the agencies themselves. I hope to have a copy of the webcast for your viewing in the near future and you will see how passionately we spoke and how difficult it was for those in the audience to clap for us as we finished our speeches.) Needless to say, there was no mandate for change by the end of the day. They want to form a national panel or 40 people to become the main working group that will steer the changes. They are accepting nominations at this time and as reluctant as I am to do this - I feel I absolutely must - and I guess we will see if they are bold enough to take me and a few of my colleagues.

I will keep you posted in the days to come. I could feel your support while I was there and I thank you for all you do to continually lift up not only our community but all those that are in desperate need across America.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Connie Goes to Washington

2009-06-24T06:57:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

I have to say one of my favorite movies has always been "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" and I feel this Friday's scenario will be much like the movie. However, I am afraid I now lack the naivety that Mr. Smith so bravely held. And, I ask for your thoughts and prayers as I take this journey for not only our community but for all of our neighbors across America. So many continue to suffer at the hands of corporate greed and the entrenched evil of doing nothing which many of our governing bodies now extol.

I am pasting the link for the conference and the link for you to sign up for the live webcast of the event on Friday morning. Please know that you all are with me on this journey and I am humbled and honored to put my best foot forward once again in attempting to make lasting changes for the benefit of us all.

You neighbor,

Connie

http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/nationalconversation/

http://www.vodium.com/login.asp?lib=pn100714

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

News on Lawsuit and West Fayetteville Bypass

2009-06-11T13:40:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Neighbor:

Sorry for the email overload but wanted to get this email to you (see below) from attorney Scott Zahler regarding the approval of the class action on June 1, 2009 and the dispensing of settlement money in the coming weeks.

Also, tonight at 7pm at the chamber room at the end of the Fayette County Administration building (across the parking lot from where you get your car tags) - the final vote for the West Fayetteville Bypass will take place. As many of you know, residents will lose their homes along with many whose property will be worthless because the road is passing so close to their home. And, it has also been pointed out that this will increase traffic through Christian City where many of our elderly live. At the last meeting, I went before the commissioners requesting that they do not take a person's property before all the environmental permits are in place. Mr. Dennis Chase (a biologist/environmentalist called on by many municipalities for his environmental expertise) feels that these permits will be denied due to endangerment of wetlands. It would be a travesty to see these homes taken from people at a time when their home value has fallen and then years from now the road is never built. So I hope to see you there tonight - remember this is not just a Fayette issue but an issue that once again goes to the heart of our fight as a community and a nation that our government must put the health and welfare of our citizens first!

Your neighbor,

Connie

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

The judge gave final approval of the settlement at a hearing on June 1st. There is a 30 day appeals period and if there are no appeals than the settlement checks will be sent 45 days after that. That's where we stand. Please let me know if you need any further information. Thank you.

Scott M. Zahler

Goetz I Zahler, LLC

900 Circle 75 Parkway

Suite 700

Atlanta, Georgia 30339

770-431-1107 Direct Dial

770-431-1101 Fax

smzahler@goetz-zahler.com Email

www.goetz-zahler.com Website

The "National Conversation" and Your Water

2009-06-11T08:56:00.001-05:00

Good morning neighbor:

So glad to see summer here and glad to see fleas on my dogs (yes fleas). I believe it was Corrie ten Boom in her book "The Hiding Place" that also glorified the flea in the concentration camp because at least she knew she was alive and the same here. If you will all remember, there were no fleas in the summer of 2006 signaling the physical death of our community if the poisoning did not stop. We have still lost some of our neighbors, many of our pets and most recently I am beginning to hear of the possibility that we have children born with deformities who were in their mother's womb during the summer of 2006. So the fight for justice and protection continues.

Last evening I was told that the Center for Disease Control would be paying my way to participate in "The National Conversation on Chemical Exposure" in D.C. on June 26 - see the link below. I will go and make whatever stand I can even though I think this "National Conversation" is nothing but a way to appear concerned and to appease the masses that change is on its way. The fact that they did not invite the very people who testified at our nation's capitol about the atrocities of the ATSDR says that they do not want change and trust me this will be a part of whatever statement I get to make at this meeting. I only think I am now invited because a few of us barked loud enough that they decided to crack the door a little open to let a few of the "regular people" inside.

Another subject I am deeply concerned about is the letter sent to many of you about toxins in your municipal water. Dr. Lois Speaker expresses much concern over this and feels you all should be drinking water from an outside source until this problem is resolved. I have forwarded this information to professionals at GreenLaw http://green-law.org/so that they can also begin to look into this. It maybe important to have a community meeting so let me know your thoughts and if you received a letter about your drinking water. It appears to have gone out to residents in the Peachtree City area.

Remember my quote below - Margaret Mead once said: Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Your neighbor,

Connie

http://www.2009nationalconversation.com/

http://science.house.gov/press/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=2390

Constance L. Thomas (Biemiller), Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Task Foce Response in Rockmart

2009-05-11T05:58:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Please see my letter to the various agencies and political figures with regard to last week's event.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Subject: Task Foce Response in Rockmart

On May 8, 2009 a team from the South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force traveled to the Rockmart area to investigate the "onion/garlic smell" that resulted in the calls to the Emergency Management Agency due to illness. We went directly to the Polk County EMA office in Cedartown to find out the exact locations of smell and illness as well as to educate the EMA about our experience and left research materials with them for future use if needed. The EMA plans to use the exposure form and we encouraged them to begin plotting illness on a map. So far on this particular day, there were no calls regarding odor or illness.

The EMA had no idea that the EPD had been out to the area the day before. We were shocked to learn that there had been no cross communication. In order for the EPD (Environmental Protection Division) to truly investigate, there would need to be a call to this agency to gather all reports but this did not occur. The report we received from the EPD is cited below - a random smell test appeared to be used. Also, the EPD did not state if they asked for any records from the Rockmart Waste Water Treatment Plant as to what had been treated over the three day period.

As I said in my previous email - in order to truly protect our communities, the agency lines must be blurred and begin to work as a team to oversee all toxic events that take place. Didn't we learn anything from Katrina?

I would also like to make another statement with regard to the use of proper testing equipment in the State of Georgia. The reason why Georgia can be inundated with toxic pesticide dumping from other states is the following:

a. The State of Georgia does not recognize pesticides as a toxic waste. Therefore, we have extremely lax laws around pesticide containment and these laws were even further relaxed in May of 2006 just before the event in our area occurred.

b. The State of Georgia has no proper testing equipment for the testing of toxicity of pesticides that are being emitted into the air, soil or water. It appears we are also willing to put our heads in the sand and never know what harm these toxins are bringing to our citizens.

After visiting the exposed area, the Task Force is temporarily concluding that the toxins were dumped in the Rockmart Landfill and covered over enough within a three day period to contain the odor. We will encourage the Polk County EMA to ask for landfill records of dumping during that period to see if it correlates with our conclusion.

We have yet to receive any communication from the GA Department of Health (an extension of the ATSDR) regarding this matter.

I am sure that our Task Force is seen as a thorn in the side of our government agencies - however - I can assure you that we only want the best for Georgia citizens and want our tax payer funded agencies to exceed the highest standards of protection. We will do all we can to help and truly be a part of the solution!!

Connie Thomas Biemiller, Chair
South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force
770-314-6999

Dear Ms. Biemiller,
After our discussion yesterday, I sent an inspector to the Rockmart Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP). This complaint was entered into the Complaint Tracking System as CTS #57719. The inspector did not detect any odors of onion or garlic. When he drove by Tip Top Poultry there was a slight odor but not the one described. He also noticed the fields adjacent to the plant had been recently cut. Finally he conducted an inspection of the WWTP, but did not find any problems. If you have any questions please contact Russell Nix at the EPD Mountain District Office at 770-387-4900.
Sincerely,
Jim Ussery

ONION SMELL IN ROCKMART/CEDARTOWN GEORGIA

2009-05-07T18:09:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Neighbor:

This is an email I absolutely hate to write but it appears that our
neighbors in the Rockmart/ Cedartown area are being exposed to the
same poison, One of our community leaders happened to be working on
the census in that area and has been smelling it for three days now.
He contacted us and we have since got in touch with the Emergency
Management Agency and their phone is ringing off the hook with
citizens whose throats are closing up and eyes burning.

Task force members will be leaving for that area tomorrow morning. I
ask that you keep us in your prayers as we attempt to make quick
decisions and force the hands of those in power to immediately
conduct appropriate testing of this community. We will not only be
saving countless lives but will also be totally confirming our
exposure to an organophosphate and literally change the course of our
community's investigation.

I will update you upon our return.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Connie Thomas Biemiller, Chair
South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force
770-314-6999

PSC update

2009-04-30T09:19:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Please see the email below with regard to the PSC settlement.

Also, there has been great news with regard to the rescinding of prior Heath Assessments such as the one given to our community - see the article below with regard to the poisoning at Camp Lejeune. The ATSDR is now admitting to using flawed information. It is up to our community to make sure that the same is done for us. We absolutely know that our community was not truly documented - not one person was ever seen or interviewed by the ATSDR so how could they have ever even generated a report. http://science.house.gov/press/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=2448

Your neighbor,

Connie

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Scott Zahler" <smzahler@goetz-zahler.com>
Date: April 29, 2009 9:51:36 AM EDT
To: "'Connie Thomas Biemiller'" <eiog@bellsouth.net>
Subject: RE: PSC

The Final Fairness Hearing was moved back by the Court to June 1^st due to moving back the claims deadline which moved the schedule back. If the Court gives final approvement of the settlement during that hearing, settlement payments will be sent 45 days after that. Thanks

Scott M. Zahler
Goetz I Zahler, LLC
900 Circle 75 Parkway
Suite 700
Atlanta, Georgia 30339

770-431-1107 Direct Dial
770-431-1101 Fax

smzahler@goetz-zahler.com Email
www.goetz-zahler.com Website

Updates for our Community

2009-04-28T07:09:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Neighbor:

Earth Day was a great success and I am including a link to some of the pictures taken that day. http://www.eiog.org/ed-photogallery.htm

Also, there is a an upcoming West Fayetteville Bypass meeting and I am including a link for that article and meeting time. If you live in North Fayette and South Fulton, this is a meeting you will want to attend. This road will impact Hwy 92, West Bridge, Rivers Road subdivisions, Lees Mill and Sandy Creek area. Many in our community will be losing their homes in the very near future. The county can take their homes without all of the transportation and environmnental permits in place. And, as you know - if this can happen in your neighbor's backyard it can happen in yours. http://www.thecitizen.com/~citizen0/node/36341

And lastly, I subscribe to FDA updates and since this is about the Swine Flu - I felt you all should be updated as well.

FDA Authorizes Emergency Use of Influenza Medicines, Diagnostic Test in Response to Swine Flu Outbreak in Humans
Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:57:00 -0500

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, in response to requests from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has issued Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) to make available to public health and medical personnel important diagnostic and therapeutic tools to identify and respond to the swine flu virus under certain circumstances. The agency issued these EUAs for the use of certain Relenza and Tamiflu antiviral products, and for the rRT-PCR Swine Flu Panel diagnostic test.

Your neighbor,

Connie

Connie Thomas Biemiller, Chair

South Fulton and Fayette Community Task Force

www.thecommunityvoice.tv

Ph. -770-314-6999

As Margaret Mead once said:

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.