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July 29, 2003
GovPro E-Newsletter
Null
Tuesday, July 29, 2003 Volume 2, Issue 29
Welcome to the GovPro Newsletter brought to you by the Penton Government Media Group. Look forward to news, resources, product and supplier information, and links relating to the government market.
If this message was sent in error or you wish to unsubscribe, see the unsubscribe information below.
Sponsored by MSA
CONTENTS
EPA Selects Cleanup Sites Fuel Facts Find Funding State Budgets Limit Conference Travel High-Speed Police ChasesSimulator Style News of the Weird
FEATURES
EPA TO BEGIN New Cleanup Projects in Nine States
EPA announced that to further protect public health of citizens living near hazardous waste sites, it will begin clean up at 11 new Superfund projects in Colorado, Louisiana, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Idaho. The new starts are in addition to the 450 sites currently being cleaned up under Superfund. Those 450 sites include 729 separate cleanup projects. To date, EPA has cleaned up 852 sites on the Superfund National Priorities List (NPL).
EPAs FY 2003 Superfund budget for cleanup is approximately $277 million ($227 million from the fiscal year 2003 Superfund appropriation and an estimated additional $50 million from past appropriations). In addition to appropriations that fund the program, the Superfund law requires parties found responsible for polluting sites pay to clean them up. Due to the polluter pays structure of Superfund, about 70 percent of Superfund sites are paid for and cleaned up by private parties. Other sites are cleaned up by EPA, with costs recovered from private parties after the cleanup. EPA collected almost $250 million last year through cost recoveries. Consequently, most of EPAs Superfund appropriation is devoted to orphan sites where the responsible parties cannot be found.
Among other criteria, the 11 new projects selected for cleanup were principally chosen based on the human health risks posed by the site. The $277 million will allow us to begin new work at the top priority sites across the country and continue work on sites where cleanup has already begun, said Marianne Lamont Horinko, EPA Acting Administrator. I want to emphasize that we will monitor all projects, including those where cleanup will not begin this year, to ensure they do not pose any immediate risk to the people living nearby.
According to Horinko, EPAs ability to start cleanups at new sites is more constrained today than in the past, despite the fact that both EPAs cleanup budget and the cleanup funds contributed by responsible parties have remained fairly constant. Appropriations from Congress for the Superfund program, which includes emergency removals, site assessment, site cleanup, enforcement, and administration, have remained between $1.3 and $1.5 billion since 1995.
Our first priority is to continue work on sites where cleanup has already begun, she said. The Superfund program has made huge progress over the years. What weve got left on the NPL are large, complex sites. Ongoing cleanup work, which can take decades, is eating up a big chunk of the money available.
At this time, 12 projects at 10 sites have not been selected to receive funding. However, all funding decisions are not final, and the Agency will make another announcement at the end of the fiscal year after determining what remaining funds are available, Horinko said. Any sites not receiving funding do not pose immediate risks to human health and will be considered for funding next year, she added.
This year approximately 40 percent of EPAs Superfund cleanup budget is dedicated to eight, complex Superfund sites. The Administration has requested a $150 million increase in its Superfund budget for fiscal year 2004 in order to accelerate cleanup at ongoing sites and begin long-term cleanup at new sites. The additional money would allow us to continue momentum in the Superfund program and allow us to begin work at new sites that are awaiting cleanup, said Horinko.
The 11 new projects that were selected for funding in fiscal year 2003 are: * Vasquez Boulevard and I-70, Denver, CO * Central Wood Preserving, East Feliciana Parish, LA * Mallard Bay Landing Bulk Plant, Grand Chenier, LA * Newton County Mine, Newton County, MO * DeRewal Chemical Co., Kingwood Township, NJ * Fruit Avenue Plume, Albuquerque, NM * Conroe Creosoting Company, Conroe, TX * Eureka Mills, Eureka, UT * Pownal Tannery, Pownal, VT * Bunker Hill, Kellogg and Shoshone County, IA (two projects)
For more information on the sites, visit: http://www.epa.gov/superfund
GRANTS FOR BIODIESEL EDUCATION PROGRAM AVAILABLE
Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman announced the availability of $920,000 in grants to conduct a biodiesel fuel education program.
The purpose of the program is to award the grants for the development of an education program to target governmental and private entities that operate vehicle fleets. The program will address issues previously identified by fleet operators and other potential users of this alternative fuel, including the need to balance the positive environmental, social and human health effects of biodiesel consumption with the increased cost per gallon.
In addition, the education programs are to be designed to inform other interested entities and the public about biodiesel fuel use. The program is authorized by Section 9004 of the 2002 Farm Bill through 2007.
Biodiesel can be made from almost any agricultural oil including soybean oil, animal fats and recycled greases. Biodiesel has many environmental and health benefits. It is biodegradable and reduces air toxics and cancer-causing compounds and can be considered to be an environmentally preferable fuel. Burning biodiesel or biodiesel blends reduces most forms of air pollution, including sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and particulate matter.
Detailed information about program requirements and information on how to apply is available in the July 15, 2003 Federal Register and at http://www.usda.gov/oce/oepnu/index.htm. Eligibility of applicants is limited to nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education (as defined in Sec. 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)) that have demonstrated both knowledge of biodiesel fuel production, use or distribution and the ability to conduct educational and technical support programs. Applications must be received by the close of business on August 14, 2003 to be considered. A maximum of two grant awards will be made.
Applicants and other interested parties are encouraged to contact Carmela A. Bailey, Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service at (202) 401-6443 or cbailey@csrees.usda.gov; or James Duffield, Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, U.S. Department of Agriculture, at (202) 401-0523 or jduffield@oce.usda.gov.
MSA
Since 1914, MSA has been offering a complete line of personal protection equipment. MSA has over 2,000 products on GSA schedules covering Respiratory/Head/Eye/Face/Hearing/Fall Protection and Portable Instruments for Gas Detection. http://www.msanet.com
NEWS
Legislative Conferences Attendance Sags
By Kathleen Murphy, Stateline.org Attendance at legislative conferences tackling state finance and health care issues will be lower than usual this year partly because some states tight budgets are forcing lawmakers to pay their own way, organizers said.
The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) is meeting in San Francisco this week. The American Legislative Exchange Council meets in Washington July 30 to Aug. 2.
Given the state of the budget in most states and with travel bans, that means many members have to pay their own way. Anticipating the worst case scenario, I was a little nervous about attendance but weve been pleasantly surprised, NCSL President Sen. Angela Monson, D-Oklahoma City, said in an interview.
NCSL, a nonpartisan organization that monitors state government and gathers information about state policies, expects 6,000 members to attend its workshops and policymaking sessions, said NCSL spokeswoman Nicole Casal. Two years ago, the meeting drew about 6,800 participants, and last year more than 6,000 came, Casal said.
Special sessions in Texas and Florida threaten to conflict with NCSLs meeting unless quick deals are cut on redistricting and medical malpractice respectively. Taxpayers usually foot the bill for members trips in both states and will have to eat the cost of unused airfare.
In Police Cruiser Simulators, the World's Full of Bad Drivers
General Electric Driver Development, FAAC, and Doron Precision Systems design simulators that allow police officers to practice high-speed pursuits and other scenarios without jeopardizing equipment. Approximately 150 of the more than 13,000 police departments in the nation use simulators, but FAAC service manager Terry Cutler suggests that the threat of lawsuits could increase the interest of law enforcement. A $100,000 simulator used by the Connecticut State Police allows officers to sharpen their driving skills in numerous scenarios, from pursuing drunk drivers to high-speed chases.
The simulator can adjust vehicle response based on weather or road conditions, and is equipped with plasma screens and high-speed graphic cards to provide a realistic driving experience. The newest simulator introduced by GE can simulate the driving characteristics of different vehicles. Philadelphia police officers lowered the number of accidents from 826 in 1998 to 655 last year using the Doron simulator. Source: NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary.
NEWS OF THE WEIRD: Bizarre but true stories about real people. http://www.govpro.com/GPRONewsletter/Article/29179/
LINKS
ORIX Public Finance, a leading provider of innovative financing for state and local municipalities, offers flexible terms, expedient processing and time-tested expertise. Let an ORIX professional help you today. http://www.orixfin.com
Federal Signal will accelerate your response time with electronic and mechanical outdoor warning sirens, software, and the Informer tone-alert radio. http://www.federalwarningsystems.com
PPI Modular Structures Inc. is a construction company that provides modular and pre-manufactured buildings. Custom applications are our specialty! http://www.ppimod.com
OLYMPIA! The only name you need to know for your office machine requirements! Paper Shredders, Typewriters, Calculators, Paper Handling Equipment. http://www.olympia.to
As a global leader in office furniture, Haworth offers a comprehensive line of furniture and service solutions for any office. http://www.haworth.com
Dawn Enterprises, a long time GSA choice for ultra-secure trashcans, planters, benches and bollards manufactured in either concrete or stone, in the colors of your choice. http://www.trashcans.com
GEM is the zero-emission transportation solution for your fleet needs. This Low Speed Vehicle is ideal for those everyday short distance trips. http://www.gemcar.com/gsa
John Deere. Better machines, greater choices. Lower prices, fewer hassles. Our complete online catalog brings the John Deere showroom right to you. http://www.JohnDeere.com/GovSales
Newark InOne is the only electronics distributor to have a catalog-wide GSA Schedule (GS-06F-0044M) exclusively for the supply of over 150,000 electronic components and supplies. Visit http://www.teamgov.com or contact 1.800.TEAM.GOV (832.6468) for a FREE catalog or to place your next order.
SimplexGrinnell: Your OneStop* provider for integrated fire, security and communications. Serving you via the GSA Schedule. To learn more, visit: http://www.simplexgrinnell.com/gsa
Custom-designed Meyer snow plows fit exact vehicle frame and weight specifications for exceptional performance in all applications. Visit: http://www.meyerproducts.com
KI is an award-winning, international furniture producer. Products include office seating, stacking and guest chairs, tables and wall systems. http://www.KI.com
Polythane Systems and the affiliated companies sell spray polyurethane foam for roofing, walls and tanks and the coatings necessary to complete the system. http://www.polythane.com
Alamo Industrial is the world's largest manufacturer of tractor-mounted vegetation management equipment. Built Sharper to give you the edge you need! Visit http://www.alamo-industrial.com
Installed in over 100 military and government facilities around the world, Onity provides superior electronic locking systems, e-safes and energy management solutions. Visit http://www.onity.biz
Skatewave Modular Skatepark Systems is a division of Landscape Structures Inc. Skatewave was founded in March 2001 and since then has installed more than 350 parks across the United States, Canada and Southeast Asia. Visit http://www.skatewave.com
Electric Eel Mfg. produces a full range of sewer cleaning equipment for the municipal market. Pipeline inspection and location equipment also available. Visit online at http://www.electriceel.com
Government fleets - comply with EPAct and Executive Order 13149, and meet petroleum reduction goals with help from FuelMaker and NGVs. http://www.fuelmaker.com
For over 60 years, C&H has been a leading supplier of industrial products such as material handling, shop equipment, maintenance equipment, material storage, shipping supplies, safety products, dock equipment and more. Contact C&H at 1-800-558-9966 or visit our website at http://www.chdist.com
Safety Storage, the first choice for custom and pre-fabricated hazardous storage buildings. http://www.safetystorage.com
C & H Distributors provide a fast, efficient way to purchase shelving, cabinets, packaging and shipping products, or office furniture. Visit: http://www.chdist.com
Crown Equipment designs, manufactures, distributes, services, and supports material handling products that provide customers with superior value. http://www.crown.com
You may qualify for a FREE Magazine Subscription
Complimentary subscriptions to Government Product News, a product-driven resource, and Government PROcurement, editorial targeting the public sector purchasing professional are available to those who qualify. To subscribe to Government Product News visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gn To subscribe to Government Procurement visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gp
Copyright 2003 Penton Media, Inc.
Welcome to the GovPro Newsletter brought to you by the Penton Government Media Group. Look forward to news, resources, product and supplier information, and links relating to the government market.
If this message was sent in error or you wish to unsubscribe, see the unsubscribe information below.
Sponsored by MSA
CONTENTS
EPA Selects Cleanup Sites Fuel Facts Find Funding State Budgets Limit Conference Travel High-Speed Police ChasesSimulator Style News of the Weird
FEATURES
EPA TO BEGIN New Cleanup Projects in Nine States
EPA announced that to further protect public health of citizens living near hazardous waste sites, it will begin clean up at 11 new Superfund projects in Colorado, Louisiana, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Idaho. The new starts are in addition to the 450 sites currently being cleaned up under Superfund. Those 450 sites include 729 separate cleanup projects. To date, EPA has cleaned up 852 sites on the Superfund National Priorities List (NPL).
EPAs FY 2003 Superfund budget for cleanup is approximately $277 million ($227 million from the fiscal year 2003 Superfund appropriation and an estimated additional $50 million from past appropriations). In addition to appropriations that fund the program, the Superfund law requires parties found responsible for polluting sites pay to clean them up. Due to the polluter pays structure of Superfund, about 70 percent of Superfund sites are paid for and cleaned up by private parties. Other sites are cleaned up by EPA, with costs recovered from private parties after the cleanup. EPA collected almost $250 million last year through cost recoveries. Consequently, most of EPAs Superfund appropriation is devoted to orphan sites where the responsible parties cannot be found.
Among other criteria, the 11 new projects selected for cleanup were principally chosen based on the human health risks posed by the site. The $277 million will allow us to begin new work at the top priority sites across the country and continue work on sites where cleanup has already begun, said Marianne Lamont Horinko, EPA Acting Administrator. I want to emphasize that we will monitor all projects, including those where cleanup will not begin this year, to ensure they do not pose any immediate risk to the people living nearby.
According to Horinko, EPAs ability to start cleanups at new sites is more constrained today than in the past, despite the fact that both EPAs cleanup budget and the cleanup funds contributed by responsible parties have remained fairly constant. Appropriations from Congress for the Superfund program, which includes emergency removals, site assessment, site cleanup, enforcement, and administration, have remained between $1.3 and $1.5 billion since 1995.
Our first priority is to continue work on sites where cleanup has already begun, she said. The Superfund program has made huge progress over the years. What weve got left on the NPL are large, complex sites. Ongoing cleanup work, which can take decades, is eating up a big chunk of the money available.
At this time, 12 projects at 10 sites have not been selected to receive funding. However, all funding decisions are not final, and the Agency will make another announcement at the end of the fiscal year after determining what remaining funds are available, Horinko said. Any sites not receiving funding do not pose immediate risks to human health and will be considered for funding next year, she added.
This year approximately 40 percent of EPAs Superfund cleanup budget is dedicated to eight, complex Superfund sites. The Administration has requested a $150 million increase in its Superfund budget for fiscal year 2004 in order to accelerate cleanup at ongoing sites and begin long-term cleanup at new sites. The additional money would allow us to continue momentum in the Superfund program and allow us to begin work at new sites that are awaiting cleanup, said Horinko.
The 11 new projects that were selected for funding in fiscal year 2003 are: * Vasquez Boulevard and I-70, Denver, CO * Central Wood Preserving, East Feliciana Parish, LA * Mallard Bay Landing Bulk Plant, Grand Chenier, LA * Newton County Mine, Newton County, MO * DeRewal Chemical Co., Kingwood Township, NJ * Fruit Avenue Plume, Albuquerque, NM * Conroe Creosoting Company, Conroe, TX * Eureka Mills, Eureka, UT * Pownal Tannery, Pownal, VT * Bunker Hill, Kellogg and Shoshone County, IA (two projects)
For more information on the sites, visit: http://www.epa.gov/superfund
GRANTS FOR BIODIESEL EDUCATION PROGRAM AVAILABLE
Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman announced the availability of $920,000 in grants to conduct a biodiesel fuel education program.
The purpose of the program is to award the grants for the development of an education program to target governmental and private entities that operate vehicle fleets. The program will address issues previously identified by fleet operators and other potential users of this alternative fuel, including the need to balance the positive environmental, social and human health effects of biodiesel consumption with the increased cost per gallon.
In addition, the education programs are to be designed to inform other interested entities and the public about biodiesel fuel use. The program is authorized by Section 9004 of the 2002 Farm Bill through 2007.
Biodiesel can be made from almost any agricultural oil including soybean oil, animal fats and recycled greases. Biodiesel has many environmental and health benefits. It is biodegradable and reduces air toxics and cancer-causing compounds and can be considered to be an environmentally preferable fuel. Burning biodiesel or biodiesel blends reduces most forms of air pollution, including sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and particulate matter.
Detailed information about program requirements and information on how to apply is available in the July 15, 2003 Federal Register and at http://www.usda.gov/oce/oepnu/index.htm. Eligibility of applicants is limited to nonprofit organizations and institutions of higher education (as defined in Sec. 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)) that have demonstrated both knowledge of biodiesel fuel production, use or distribution and the ability to conduct educational and technical support programs. Applications must be received by the close of business on August 14, 2003 to be considered. A maximum of two grant awards will be made.
Applicants and other interested parties are encouraged to contact Carmela A. Bailey, Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service at (202) 401-6443 or cbailey@csrees.usda.gov; or James Duffield, Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, U.S. Department of Agriculture, at (202) 401-0523 or jduffield@oce.usda.gov.
MSA
Since 1914, MSA has been offering a complete line of personal protection equipment. MSA has over 2,000 products on GSA schedules covering Respiratory/Head/Eye/Face/Hearing/Fall Protection and Portable Instruments for Gas Detection. http://www.msanet.com
NEWS
Legislative Conferences Attendance Sags
By Kathleen Murphy, Stateline.org Attendance at legislative conferences tackling state finance and health care issues will be lower than usual this year partly because some states tight budgets are forcing lawmakers to pay their own way, organizers said.
The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) is meeting in San Francisco this week. The American Legislative Exchange Council meets in Washington July 30 to Aug. 2.
Given the state of the budget in most states and with travel bans, that means many members have to pay their own way. Anticipating the worst case scenario, I was a little nervous about attendance but weve been pleasantly surprised, NCSL President Sen. Angela Monson, D-Oklahoma City, said in an interview.
NCSL, a nonpartisan organization that monitors state government and gathers information about state policies, expects 6,000 members to attend its workshops and policymaking sessions, said NCSL spokeswoman Nicole Casal. Two years ago, the meeting drew about 6,800 participants, and last year more than 6,000 came, Casal said.
Special sessions in Texas and Florida threaten to conflict with NCSLs meeting unless quick deals are cut on redistricting and medical malpractice respectively. Taxpayers usually foot the bill for members trips in both states and will have to eat the cost of unused airfare.
In Police Cruiser Simulators, the World's Full of Bad Drivers
General Electric Driver Development, FAAC, and Doron Precision Systems design simulators that allow police officers to practice high-speed pursuits and other scenarios without jeopardizing equipment. Approximately 150 of the more than 13,000 police departments in the nation use simulators, but FAAC service manager Terry Cutler suggests that the threat of lawsuits could increase the interest of law enforcement. A $100,000 simulator used by the Connecticut State Police allows officers to sharpen their driving skills in numerous scenarios, from pursuing drunk drivers to high-speed chases.
The simulator can adjust vehicle response based on weather or road conditions, and is equipped with plasma screens and high-speed graphic cards to provide a realistic driving experience. The newest simulator introduced by GE can simulate the driving characteristics of different vehicles. Philadelphia police officers lowered the number of accidents from 826 in 1998 to 655 last year using the Doron simulator. Source: NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary.
NEWS OF THE WEIRD: Bizarre but true stories about real people. http://www.govpro.com/GPRONewsletter/Article/29179/
LINKS
ORIX Public Finance, a leading provider of innovative financing for state and local municipalities, offers flexible terms, expedient processing and time-tested expertise. Let an ORIX professional help you today. http://www.orixfin.com
Federal Signal will accelerate your response time with electronic and mechanical outdoor warning sirens, software, and the Informer tone-alert radio. http://www.federalwarningsystems.com
PPI Modular Structures Inc. is a construction company that provides modular and pre-manufactured buildings. Custom applications are our specialty! http://www.ppimod.com
OLYMPIA! The only name you need to know for your office machine requirements! Paper Shredders, Typewriters, Calculators, Paper Handling Equipment. http://www.olympia.to
As a global leader in office furniture, Haworth offers a comprehensive line of furniture and service solutions for any office. http://www.haworth.com
Dawn Enterprises, a long time GSA choice for ultra-secure trashcans, planters, benches and bollards manufactured in either concrete or stone, in the colors of your choice. http://www.trashcans.com
GEM is the zero-emission transportation solution for your fleet needs. This Low Speed Vehicle is ideal for those everyday short distance trips. http://www.gemcar.com/gsa
John Deere. Better machines, greater choices. Lower prices, fewer hassles. Our complete online catalog brings the John Deere showroom right to you. http://www.JohnDeere.com/GovSales
Newark InOne is the only electronics distributor to have a catalog-wide GSA Schedule (GS-06F-0044M) exclusively for the supply of over 150,000 electronic components and supplies. Visit http://www.teamgov.com or contact 1.800.TEAM.GOV (832.6468) for a FREE catalog or to place your next order.
SimplexGrinnell: Your OneStop* provider for integrated fire, security and communications. Serving you via the GSA Schedule. To learn more, visit: http://www.simplexgrinnell.com/gsa
Custom-designed Meyer snow plows fit exact vehicle frame and weight specifications for exceptional performance in all applications. Visit: http://www.meyerproducts.com
KI is an award-winning, international furniture producer. Products include office seating, stacking and guest chairs, tables and wall systems. http://www.KI.com
Polythane Systems and the affiliated companies sell spray polyurethane foam for roofing, walls and tanks and the coatings necessary to complete the system. http://www.polythane.com
Alamo Industrial is the world's largest manufacturer of tractor-mounted vegetation management equipment. Built Sharper to give you the edge you need! Visit http://www.alamo-industrial.com
Installed in over 100 military and government facilities around the world, Onity provides superior electronic locking systems, e-safes and energy management solutions. Visit http://www.onity.biz
Skatewave Modular Skatepark Systems is a division of Landscape Structures Inc. Skatewave was founded in March 2001 and since then has installed more than 350 parks across the United States, Canada and Southeast Asia. Visit http://www.skatewave.com
Electric Eel Mfg. produces a full range of sewer cleaning equipment for the municipal market. Pipeline inspection and location equipment also available. Visit online at http://www.electriceel.com
Government fleets - comply with EPAct and Executive Order 13149, and meet petroleum reduction goals with help from FuelMaker and NGVs. http://www.fuelmaker.com
For over 60 years, C&H has been a leading supplier of industrial products such as material handling, shop equipment, maintenance equipment, material storage, shipping supplies, safety products, dock equipment and more. Contact C&H at 1-800-558-9966 or visit our website at http://www.chdist.com
Safety Storage, the first choice for custom and pre-fabricated hazardous storage buildings. http://www.safetystorage.com
C & H Distributors provide a fast, efficient way to purchase shelving, cabinets, packaging and shipping products, or office furniture. Visit: http://www.chdist.com
Crown Equipment designs, manufactures, distributes, services, and supports material handling products that provide customers with superior value. http://www.crown.com
You may qualify for a FREE Magazine Subscription
Complimentary subscriptions to Government Product News, a product-driven resource, and Government PROcurement, editorial targeting the public sector purchasing professional are available to those who qualify. To subscribe to Government Product News visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gn To subscribe to Government Procurement visit: http://www.submag.com/sub/gp
Copyright 2003 Penton Media, Inc.
