Journal - Georgia Environmental Health Association
Transcription
Journal - Georgia Environmental Health Association
GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTALIST The official publication of the Georgia Environmental Health Association June 2013 In this issue: WelSTROM: A GIS Approach to Mapping Septic Systems and Private Wells Food Recalls: What You Need to Know Why It’s Difficult to Prove Environmental Causes of Cancer School Nutrition and Sustainability Biodiesel Reduces Exposure to Air Toxics ...and much more! GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTALIST The official publication of the Georgia Environmental Health Association DEDICATION This issue of the Georgia Environmentalist is dedicated to James Tobe “Jim” Free Mr. Free was Senior Salesman for Infiltrator Systems, Inc., Legislative Representative and Past-President of the Georgia On-site Wastewater Association, and Member of Regional Water Council of Georgia. He will be greatly missed. Mr. Jim Free passed away in December 2012 as a result of injuries from an unfortunate accident on his farm. Jim was a lifelong resident of Emanuel County, GA. Jim was a graduate of Swainsboro High School, and attended Middle Georgia College and Georgia Southern University. Jim began his career as a septic system installer working with his father, and in 1988 he and his wife, Tot, started an onsite waste management system product distribution company. In 1996, Jim worked in sales at Infiltrator Systems, Inc. where he continued to work for 17 years. He served as legislative representative, President, and Past-President of the Georgia On-site Wastewater Association. He also served as a member of the Regional Water Council of Georgia, and was a dedicated supporter of the Georgia Environmental Health Association. Jim was a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher at Oak Chapel Baptist Church, and served in the National Guard for six years. Jim was a certified tree farmer and an avid bird hunter, and he was instrumental in assisting and training environmental health specialists and septic installers throughout Georgia. He also coached the Dixie Youth League baseball and David Emanuel Academy softball teams. Jim was a compassionate and generous person with many friends throughout Georgia. He will be greatly missed. Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Tot, his son Bill, his two daughters Jamie and Bonnie, and extended family. The Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. is a nonprofit organization incorporated under the laws of Georgia, and the recognized Georgia affiliate of the National Environmental Health Association. Membership dues are $25.00 per year. 2 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTALIST The official publication of the Georgia Environmental Health Association Volume 35 www.geha-online.org ARTICLES FEATURES WellSTROM: An Approach to GIS Mapping of Septic Systems and Private Wells 8 Food Recalls: What You Need to Know 10 Why It’s So Hard to Prove Message from the President 5 Professional Certification 6 GBREHP Meeting 16 South Georgia Livin’ / 2013 AEC Agenda 17 Environmental Causes of Cancer 12 Conference Snapshots 18 Featured Interview: Scott Uhlich 18 Spotlight on Environmental Health 19 School Nutrition and Sustainability 20 NEHA Board of Directors Update 27 Environmental Health and Pop Culture 22 GEHA Awards and Scholarships 28 Local Biodiesel Helps Reduce Exposure GEHA News 29 to Air Toxics 24 Farmers and Consumers Market Bulletin 30 GEHA Membership Form 34 The Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. is a nonprofit organization incorporated under the laws of Georgia, and the recognized Georgia affiliate of the National Environmental Health Association. Membership dues are $25.00 per year. Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. 397 Eastman Hwy Hawkinsville, GA 31036 [email protected] www.geha-online.org COVER ART: This year’s cover art is a mosaic of photographs of septic system installation and commercial food safety inspections provided by the Georgia Onsite Wastewater Association (GOWA) and the Georgia Department of Agriculture. GOWA is a non-profit organization which represents professionals and companies in the Onsite Wastewater Management Systems. For more about GOWA, see the Spotlight on page 16. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 3 MESSAGE FROM THE GEHA PRESIDENT by Tad Williams The Georgia Environmental Health Association (GEHA) exists to “promote and support the efforts of, and provide training and registration for, individuals working in environmental health fields in government, academia, industry and business.” GEHA strengthens our knowledge and increases our commitment to our profession. Let’s embrace the opportunity to meet someone new from another agency, industry, or academia, and build relationships and form networks that will result in greater success as we return to our everyday duties. This is the first in several years we have scheduled a multi-day conference. Next year, in 2014, Georgia will be the host of the Interstate Environmental Health Seminar. When you return to your work place, encourage your co-workers to become members and to get excited about GEHA. In our daily duties, let us make use of the knowledge and experiences gained through these networks as we work to improve the quality of our food, water, air and surroundings for our families, neighbors, visitors, and all Georgians. Each year, our conference would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of many of our members, our speakers, and our sponsors from industry. Thank you on behalf all the members of GEHA. — Tad Williams We encourage you to write to us! Send letters to [email protected]. 4 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 GEHA OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS Georgia Environmentalist 2012-2013 EDITORIAL STAFF Julia Campbell, Editor Faith Flack, Assistant Editor President Tad Williams President-Elect Kathy Worthington With special thanks to Hugh and Cathy Coleman For more information, please contact the following: Journal 404.657.6534 Questions about GEHA [email protected] Membership [email protected] Georgia Board of Registered Environmental Health Professionals [email protected] Vice President Chris Rustin Past President Allison Strickland Treasurer/Finance Chad McCord Secretary Maggie Rickenbaker Kathryn Bennett Philip Cadwell Simone Charles Krissa Jones Jill Reade COMMITTEES CALL FOR ARTICLES and PHOTOS CHAIRS Audit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Perry/Christy Blair Audio Visuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Craig Nielsen Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Krissa Jones Board Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hugh Coleman Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cathy Coleman Constitution and Bylaws . . . . . . . . …Hugh Coleman Conference Coordinator . . . . .Allison Strickland/ Dwain Butler Door Prizes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Christy Blair Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julia Campbell Education/Scholarships . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Ann Zimeri Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandy Shepherd Exhibits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dwain Butler Golf Tournament . . . . .John Szymanski/David Perry Historian/GBREHP . . . . . . . . . Melinda Scarborough Legislative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harold Barnhart Membership Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Ford DPH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chris Rustin Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Krissa Jones DNR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dominic Guadagnoli Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chris Carter Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chad McCord Public Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hugh Coleman Resolutions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chad McCord Student Affiliate. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Simone Charles Silent Auction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacant Ways and Means . . . . . . . . . . . . . .John Szymanski Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leslie Freymann Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 The Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. (GEHA) invites environmental health professionals, educators, researchers, and other persons or entities to submit manuscripts for possible publication in the Georgia Environmentalist. Original technical papers, review articles or reports on experiences, research, endeavors, management techniques, or current issues are considered. Guest commentaries, letters to the editor, cover art, and other items of interest to the readership are also encouraged. Authors receive no monetary compensation for their contributions. All material is subject to peer review. GEHA is also accepting photos for journal publication. Photos may include natural scenes of Georgia, photos of Environmental Health in practice. Please, no pictures of pets. Submit articles, letters, and photos for publication to: [email protected], or call 404.657.6534 for information. If you would like to be added to the mailing list for this publication, you must become a member of GEHA. Please complete the membership form on page 34 or contact GEHA Membership at [email protected]. The Georgia Environmentalist is published annually by the Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. (GEHA). The contents, or portions thereof, may be reprinted with permission by contacting: [email protected]. Publication of articles in this journal does not mean that GEHA endorses, condones, approves, or recommends the use of materials, methodology, or policies therein. Conclusions and opinions are those of the individual authors only, and do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of GEHA. 5 GEORGIA BOARD OF REGISTERED ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS www.geha-online.org/Pages/Registration.htm ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST/SANITARIAN REGISTRATION PROGRAM Those desiring to be registered as a environmental health specialist/sanitarian in Georgia shall make a written request to the Board to take the environmental health specialist/sanitarian examination. The application shall: Qualify that the applicant will possess, within 30 days after the examination and as certified by the head or Dean of the applicant’s college or university, or already possesses, a degree from a four-year accredited college or university with a minimum of 45 quarter hours/30 semester hours plus one algebra or higher level math class, with exception that those with at least four years experience as of April 2002 may qualify with 40 quarter hours/27 semester hours of science. If you believe you are qualified, the first step toward becoming registered is to request an application from the GBREHP address listed below. Examinations are given each July in conjunction with the GEHA Annual Education Conference and at other times and locations under the supervision of an approved proctor. An admission letter will be sent prior to the exam date. Registration will depend upon the final grade attained on the examination and evaluation of the applicant’s experience. Top 3 Reasons To Be A Registered Environmental Health Professional 1. Professional credentials are one way of demonstrating your earned expertise and validating your credibility. It is a way of telling your clientele that your training and experience have enabled you to answer their questions and to improve their safety. In a time of continuous budget-cutting, it is important for our clientele to know that you have the broad-base expertise important to community and individual health and safety. 2. Professional credentials are a way of expressing your commitment to achieving your personal best for the clientele you serve. Credentials proclaim that you care, that you are on the leading edge of your profession and that you endeavor to stay current on emerging issues in environmental health through continuing education. 3. The Georgia Board of Registered Environmental Health Professionals is a growing, mentoring body. It offers the environmental health professional opportunities for continuing education, responsible leadership, and job growth. Credentials make you more marketable, affording better flexibility, mobility and job security. Position upgrades for environmental health professionals are slowly being implemented throughout the state, partially as a result of the work of this Board. Getting the credential is just the first step. We have a lot of work to do, and we need every environmental health professional's participation to make environmental health in Georgia the best it can be. Contact us and join the team! The Georgia Board of Registered Environmental Health Professionals 397 Eastman Hwy, Hawkinsville, GA 31036 Executive Clerk, Cathy Coleman, [email protected] 6 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 The GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION, INC. promotes and supports the efforts of, and provides training and registration for, individuals working in environmental health fields in government, academia, industry and business. The field of Environmental Health developed decades ago by successfully using the epidemiologic model for the sole purpose of preventing disease. Today, environmental concerns are becoming more prevalent among our citizens and, in Georgia; GEHA members are leaders in the field of Environmental Health. GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SECTION Inspecting and permitting on-site sewage management systems, food service establishments, tourist accommodations, and public swimming pools - childhood lead poisoning prevention - rabies and vector control - injury prevention - hazardous materials exposure investigations - epidemiologic investigations indoor air quality - nuisance complaints - individual and non-public water systems - Georgia healthy farmers. GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION Inspecting and permitting food products including meat, eggs and milk in grocery stores, bakeries, food processing plants, bottled water and soft drink bottling plants, farmers markets and meat, and seafood dealers - inspecting commercial scales and fuel pumps for accuracy - licensing and monitoring commercial nurseries, lawn care companies, exterminators, pesticides, pet and animal industries - testing dairy cattle and equipment - assuring proper formulation of fertilizers, pesticides, feeds and fuels - enforcing fair standards in the purchase of grain and livestock - monitoring the health of livestock in the state as well as those imported into Georgia. UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES The college of agricultural and environmental sciences promotes economic viability and global competitiveness of Georgia agriculture, fosters environmental stewardship and wise management of natural resources, and ensures the production and distribution of safe food, feed and fiber. Mission: To provide baccalaureate and graduate education in agricultural and environmental sciences that promotes excellence in student achievement and prepares students to effectively contribute and excel in a changing world; To inquire into the nature of agriculture and the environment, through the discovery, interpretation and creative application of knowledge; To serve the public through timely education of producers, consumers and agribusiness using relevant, accurate and unbiased research-based information, and To improve the quality of life through youth development and life-long education. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY Georgia business and industry support and encourage a wide variety of environmental leadership initiatives. They share a commitment to the environment based on the principle that they shall conduct business in ways that protect and preserve our environment. Furthermore, they promote a philosophy of shared responsibility, where all participants in the supply chain accept responsibility for the environmental impacts occurring in their specific part of the chain. Working together with suppliers, customers, regulators and other environmental partners, Georgia business and industry achieve an effective balance between responsible environmental and economic stewardship. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 7 GET YOUR MESSAGE OUT! Advertise in the Georgia Environmentalist STAY INFORMED! Check out our website at WWW.GEHA-ONLINE.ORG to get valuable information about GEHA and increase your business potential! Journal Advertising Rates $1500 - Full page ad, recognition at annual conference, banner at golf tournament $500 - Full page $250 -1/2 page $125 - 1/4 page $75 - 1/8 page $50 - 1/12 page (business card size) If you would like to advertise in the Georgia Environmentalist, please contact Julia Campbell, Editor at: 404.657.6534 1 2 3 4 ADVERTISING POLICY GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION, INC. The advertisement of any product in the Georgia Environmentalist does not constitute an endorsement of said product by the journal or by the Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. Advertisers alone are responsible for all performance claims which are made for any advertised products. The Board of Directors reserves the right to reject any advertisement by returning all copy and any fees paid. Fees collected for advertisements are incorporated into the general funds of the Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. ~ GEHA GEAR ~ Purchase GEHA Logo shirts and pins in time for next year’s Annual Education Conference! GEHA Logo Polo Shirts $20.00 GEHA Logo Lapel Pins $3.00 GBREHP Logo Pins $5.00 Send order and check made payable to GEHA at: Georgia Environmental Health Association 397 Eastman Parkway Hawkinsville, GA 31036 [email protected] 8 Membership Send in the membership form and you will get the official publication of GEHA, Georgia Environmentalist, a discount on annual education conference registration, GEHA publications, voting privileges in GEHA, and much more! Conferences The 2014 GEHA Annual Education Conference is a great place to network with peers, attend interactive educational seminars, and get your continuing education credits. Contact GEHA for more information! Professional Registration Professional credentials are one way of telling your clientele that your training and experience have enabled you to answer their questions and improve their safety. The Georgia Board of Registered Environmental Health Professionals offers opportunities for internationally recognized registration, continuing education, responsible leadership, and job growth. In addition, the website contains: Pictures from the annual conference Environmental health links Award recipients GEHA publications Details about the UK Partnership agreement Over 30 documents (including lists of certified tank installers and pumpers, study guides, product approval documents, committee reports, rules and regulations, educational materials, and much more!). GEHA is always open to comments or suggestions for improving the website. Please direct all comments to: [email protected]. WWW.GEHA-ONLINE.ORG Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 WelSTROM: A GIS Approach to Mapping Septic System and Private Well Locations by Chris Strom Chris Strom is currently the Director of Information Services for the Southern Georgia Regional Commission (SGRC). Prior to this position, Chris served as Geographic Information Services Director. Chris has had a long working history with the SGRC spanning 23 years. While working for SGRC, Chris has developed and implemented GIS mapping solutions to local governments in Georgia. While out on the front lines where regulation and residents meet, it is easy to get involved in the day-to-day work and forget about the picture being painted with the data we gather and record. The Well and Septic Tank Referencing and Online Mapping (WelSTROM) project by Southern Georgia Regional Commission is aimed at making that picture much more clear and accessible to environmental health staff and others across the state. The WelSTROM project is about gathering information about private well and septic system installations from multiple sources, and publishing that data in an online, interactive map, available at www.sgwebmaps.com/welstrom. This project began as a partnership between the South Health District and Southern Georgia Regional Commission in 2007 with 319(h) funding. It has since grown to other health districts across Georgia with funding from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Coastal Nonpoint Source Program, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. Project partners now also include the University of Georgia Marine Extension, Southeast Health District, and Coastal Health District. Today, the WelSTROM project includes information from 136 counties for private well, septic system, and other decisionsupporting layers available from Digital Health Department records thanks to the cooperation from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), Environmental Health Section. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Using the WelSTROM online m a p p i n g application, environmental and health officials are able to see current well and septic system installations WelSTROM application now in a spatial context. hosts well and septic system Each well or data for 136 counties in Georgia system mapped in WelSTROM includes a “Get Report” link that takes the user directly to that record in the Digital Health Department database. In many counties across southern Georgia, other layers of information relevant to the permitting decision process such as wetlands, flood zones, and parcel boundaries are available. Using the WelSTROM application, users can search for systems details, explore performance records, and customize text and spatial searches. Beyond its querying capabilities, website users can also create their own bookmarks, search for addresses, measure areas and distances, toggle layers, and print their own maps. While the mapping web application delivers the most widely recognized benefits of this project, there is just as much value in what the WelSTROM project means to planners and environmental professionals at the local, regional, and state levels. 9 WellSTROM: A GIS Approach to Mapping Septic System and Private Well Locations, continued... Users can search using property owner names, date ranges or even conduct spatial searches through drawing a graphic on the screen to delineate an area of interest. The results of these searches can be explored record by record or be exported to a MS Excel format and stored on the users computer. For the first time, an entire state of on-site sewage disposal systems are accessible from one single resource; and because of this, data can be leveraged to support decisions and analysis well beyond the daily routine of permits and inspections. For example, municipalities can begin to use this data to identify where public system expansions could be most efficient and effective. Additionally, complex spatial analysis can be performed in a geographic information system to support the needs of resource focused professionals to identify areas susceptible to increased pollution from concentrations of on-site sewage disposal systems. Imagination is the only limit to how this information can now be applied to decision making. How WelSTROM leverages permit and inspection data to help answer questions can be summed up by the old saying “everything has to be somewhere”, and with the disposal system inspection records provided by health districts, a more complete picture is being assembled of the balance between humans and our resources. The more data we have in this picture, the better our decisions can be about regulations, resources, growth, and other actions we take in the future. Chris Strom Information Services Director Southern Georgia Regional Commission 116 McKey St Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 242-1988 EPIDEMIC INTELLIGENCE SERVICE at the CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION The Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) is a unique 2-year post-graduate training program of service and on-the-job learning for health professionals interested in the practice of applied epidemiology. Since 1951, over 3,000 EIS officers have responded to requests for epidemiologic assistance within the United States and throughout the world. EIS officers are on the public health frontlines, conducting epidemiologic investigations, research, and public health surveillance both nationally and internationally. 10 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Food Recalls: What You Need to Know by Jessica Holthaus “FOOD RECALL” – two words that have immediate consequences. Every day around the world, food products are recalled for a variety of different reasons. Here in Georgia, recalls can impact our state’s food distribution system on a wholesale level, retail level and even directly to the end user/ consumer. Class I – A Class I recall is the most serious; it is a situation where there is a “reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death” to anyone consuming it. Examples of a Class I recall can include foodborne pathogens Inspection for prevention of Class I hazard found in food products; for Maybe a product is being recalled because its label example, if there is a positive test for Listeria failed to include information about ingredients that monocytogens in certain ready-to-eat foods; if could cause a harmful reaction in people with certain Salmonella is found in ready-to-eat food, pet food or food allergies; maybe something happened during food pet treats; or the toxin Clostridium botulinum is found production that caused the product to become in food. Class I recalls also apply to foods containing adulterated with a hard or sharp foreign object (such as any undeclared ingredient (i.e., not specifically listed metal or glass); or maybe that ready-to-eat product you on the label) containing proteins derived from milk, grabbed for dinner last night was contaminated with a egg, shellfish, fish, tree nuts, peanuts or soybeans. foodborne pathogen (such as Salmonella or E.coli). These ingredients are all allergens and must be listed as a specified “warning” on the label to notify persons with food allergies of potentially dangerous Georgia’s Food Safety Division At the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA), ingredients. our Food Safety Division administers state laws, rules Class II – A Class II recall is still considered serious, and regulations for all food processors, retail and but less so than a Class I. In this situation, “use of, or wholesale grocery stores and retail seafood stores. exposure to, a violative product may cause These food establishments are all required to obtain an temporary or medically reversible adverse health annual license. Within the division, program managers, consequences,” where the probability of serious inspectors and support staff all work together for adverse health consequences is remote. Georgia residents to help ensure product recalls are addressed quickly and efficiently. Examples of a Class II recall include undeclared coloring agents FD&C Yellow No. 5, which is an In fiscal year 2012, there were 114 food recalls that additive commonly used in butter, cheese and icedirectly impacted Georgia. This was up slightly from cream products, or histamine in seafood products. FY2011 (103 recalls) but down from FY2010 (141 Class II recalls would also be applied to products that recalls). Since recalls happen, on average, once every have been adulterated with hard or sharp foreign three days, what exactly does this mean to the average objects during the processing or packaging phase, such consumer? as plastic, metal or glass. Recall Classifications It is important to realize that not all recalls are the same. There are three levels, or classifications, for how a recall is addressed. This tiered system was established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is applied to every recalled product within the United States. Classifications are made on a case-bycase basis, depending upon the circumstances and risk, because each situation surrounding a food recall can be different. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Class III – A Class III recall will generally be the least serious of any recalls. In this situation, while the product is being recalled, “use of, or exposure to, this violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.” Examples of a Class III recall might include product decomposition or filth (that does not result in health hazards), or products that are unfit for consumption due to an off-color or off-taste (but again, do not pose a hazard to health). This could also include minor labeling issues that do not apply to allergen ingredients. 11 Food Recalls: What You Need to Know, Continued… If you have a mobile smartphone or tablet device, you Up-to-Date Recall Information When a recall happens, what should you do? How do you may be able to download an application that provides recall know if that recall might affect your home kitchen, information directly to your device, learn more at restaurants where you eat or in your place of business? www.recalls.gov. In the event of a major recall (such as a Class I recall that includes multiple products in multiple There are several ways to determine if the product is, in fact, states), FDA or USDA may create a special website and one of the products being recalled. Food products include other resources that will assist Georgians in accessing quick, many numbers on their labels – some help manufacturers relevant information about products affected by the recall. track inventory, while others help retailers ensure quality – You can find immediate recall notifications for Georgia on and when unsafe products must be removed from the Twitter at www.twitter.com/GDAFoodSafety and learn more market, these numbers and dates can help identify them about the Food Safety Division at www.agr.georgia.gov/ quickly. For high-risk products (usually Class I and food-safety-division. sometimes Class II), FDA and UDSA will post information for regulators, industry and consumers on its website, including: The product(s) name and brand name, lot codes or plant numbers, expiration or other dates, product photos and company contact information. Jessica Holthaus When the GDA gets notice of a recall (which will be Recall Outreach Specialist issued either by FDA or USDA), we notify partner agencies Food Safety Division across Georgia to help spread the word. For example, we Georgia Department of Agriculture may need to make sure convenience stores that sell ready-to19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive eat foods are aware of the recall, we may contact school nutrition directors who can let school cafeterias know, or Atlanta, GA 30334 food banks who may need to share the information with their various distributors. GDA Food Safety Inspectors are also notified; if they are in a facility where the product might be found (for example, a baked good item under recall, distributed to a particular grocery store chain), the inspector will look through the facility to confirm that the product is not on store shelves has been withheld from sale, ensuring The Georgia Department the product cannot be distributed into the food chain any of Agriculture, along with further. “When in doubt, throw it out!” If you think a product might be part of a recall, visit www.fda.gov/safety/recalls or www.fsis.usda.gov/ Fsis_Recalls and look for the product by name. If you see the product, there will be a link with more information on how to return the product; if you don’t see the product listed but are still unsure about whether it’s safe to consume, do not eat it. There are several ways you can get additional information about a product in question. You can contact the manufacturer that made the product, or visit or call the store where you purchased the product. GDA Food Safety officials are also on hand to help answer questions, listen to concerns and receive product complaints. Contact the GDA Food Safety Consumer Complaint line at 404-656-3621 during normal business hours. The complaint coordinator receives consumer concerns involving unsanitary conditions and food handling practices for retail and manufactured food facilities and products in the state, as well as coordinate the GDA’s responsibilities during the investigation of foodborne illness outbreaks. 12 the Departments of Transportation and Economics, initiated an Agritourism Program in the state of Georgia. Agritourism road signs provide tourists unique opportunities to enjoy Georgia’s resources and companies as they travel the roads. For more information, go to: http://georgiagrown.com/activities/agri-tourism Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Why It’s So Hard to Prove Environmental Causes of Cancer by Jane Perry, MPH As early as 1775, a London physician found a significant incidence of scrotal cancer among young chimney sweeps. They'd been working naked because that made it easier to get through a narrow chimney. Carcinogenic coal dust worked into parts of the body where it could linger. Other historical examples of work-related cancer clusters are well documented in the medical literature including skin cancer in farmers, mesothelioma from asbestos used in shipbuilding during World War II and in manufacturing, and leukemia and lymphoma in chemical products workers exposed to benzene. Cancer clusters are defined as an occurrence of a greater than expected number of cases of cancer within a group of people, defined geographic location, or a time period. Cancer clusters can result from a variety of causes, and in many cases an environmental agent is suspected. Investigation of a suspected cancer cluster usually starts when a concerned citizen reports a perceived excess of cancer cases among his/her family members or neighbors. Each year, staff from the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (GCCP) and Chemical Hazards Program (CHP) receive dozens of cancer cluster inquiries from Georgia residents. In response, GCCP and CHP drafted a cancer cluster investigation protocol to conduct a coordinated response to reports that include specific concerns about environmental exposures, and help educate citizens about environmental exposures and the resulting risk of developing cancer. A cluster is more likely to be "genuine" if the case consists of one type of cancer, a rare type of cancer, or a type of cancer that is not usually found in a certain age group. Before we can assess a suspected cancer cluster accurately, we must determine whether the type(s) of cancer involved is a primary cancer or a cancer that has metastasized (spread from another organ). This is important to know because only the primary cancer is considered. We also determine whether the suspected exposure has the potential to cause the reported cancer based on Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 what is known about that cancer’s likely causes, and about the cancer-causing potential of the exposure. Epidemiologists must also determine if the cancer cases could have occurred by chance. This is done by using mathematical measures to test for the "statistical significance" of the difference between groups. GCCP AND CHP DRAFT CANCER CLUSTER INVESTIGATION PROTOCOL STEP 1 Each request is first classified as having or not having an environmental component. If no suspected exposure to environmental contamination is mentioned during the initial complaint, the resident is asked if there are any known potential sources of environmental contamination in the area. State and federal Superfund site lists are examined for known sites and chemicals released into the environment within a 3-mile radius. If no site(s) exists as potential source(s) for exposure to known/suspected human carcinogens, CHP staff will refer client to GCCR as outlined in STEP 3. CHP sends a letter to client summarizing environmental investigation results, along with appropriate educational materials and GCCR referral information. If site(s)/releases are a potential source for exposure to carcinogen(s), proceed to STEP 2. STEP 2 The geographic area is investigated by assessing exposure pathways, toxicology of the specific chemicals of concern, and determining the worst case scenario for human exposure: 1) Research Toxicological Profiles or other sources (reference all sources); 2) Contact GEPD or EPA compliance officer for site-specific information, history of community concerns, and environmental data, and 3) Identify and evaluate health outcome data (GCCR cancer data, demographics, etc.) 13 Why It’s So Hard to Prove Environmental Causes of Cancer, Continued… If no human exposure pathway(s) exist, proceed to STEP 3. CHP sends a letter to client summarizing environmental investigation results, along with appropriate educational materials and GCCR referral information. If human exposure pathway(s) exist, proceed to STEP 4. STEP 3 GCCR sends data tables and a form letter to the client. If no elevated rates or number of cases are identified, formal investigation ends; however, CHP may continue with community involvement and education activities. If GCCR determines that there is a statistically significant incidence (or number of cases) for one or more types of cancer proceed to STEP 4. STEP 4 GCCR may conduct a cancer cluster investigation following protocol in the agency’s Cancer Cluster Investigation Manual. An epidemiologic investigation may be conducted by federal, state, and/ or local agenc(ies) and partners. If human exposure pathway(s) to environmental contaminants exist, CHP may conduct a health consultation and continues with community involvement and education activities. RESOURCES Cancer rates for counties and health districts in Georgia are available from the Georgia Comprehensive Cancer Registry (GCCR). The GCCR is a participating registry in the National Program for Cancer Registries (NPCR), administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cancer mortality and morbidity data is available at www.health.state.ga.us/programs/gccr/data.asp. Jane Perry, MPH Director, Chemical Hazards Program Environmental Health Section Georgia Department of Public Health 2 Peachtree Street NW, 13th Floor Atlanta, Georgia 30303 404-657-6534 [email protected] 14 In an effort to help curb Georgia's homeless pet population, specialty vehicle license plates are now available at county tag offices statewide. Sponsored by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the commemorative license plates, which feature a dog and cat depicted against a Georgia peach, can be purchased for a one-time $25 fee when motorists renew their vehicle registrations. Proceeds will provide funding for GDA's Dog and Cat Sterilization Program. This critical program provides reimbursements to licensed and accredited veterinarians who perform spay/neuter procedures. Proceeds from the program also will provide educational outreach on the healthy choice of spaying and neutering pets. The Humane Association of Georgia and other partners lauded the program, which fills a critical need in reducing Georgia's homeless dog and cat populations. In fact, animal overpopulation costs taxpayers millions each year. Every year, thousands of dogs and cats must be killed in shelters throughout Georgia because they have no home. The Dog and Cat Sterilization License Plate can help change this, as well as saving money and lives by reducing the number of animals being housed and killed in animal shelters. "Sales of these commemorative license plates will provide the vital funding needed to help us control Georgia's homeless pet population," said Commissioner Tommy Irvin. "We encourage Georgians to support this much-needed program by buying Dog and Cat Sterilization License Plates for their vehicles." Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Annual Meeting of the GEORGIA BOARD OF REGISTERED ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS www.gehaorg.net BOARD SUMMARY The GBREHP Annual Business Meeting was held in Macon, Georgia on February 15, 2013. Educational Program: The “State of the State”, Scott Uhlich, MCP, Director, Environmental Health Section Georgia Department of Public Health State Environmental Health Strike Team and Emergency Preparedness Ryan Jones Environmental Health Services Branch, CDC Food Safety and Defense at the 2012 Conventions Kim Livesy U.S. Food and Drug Administration Program Updates: Status and Direction of the Georgia Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Christy Kuriatnyk, MSPH, Director, Georgia Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Georgia Department of Public Health For more information on becoming registered, please see instructions on page 6, contact us on Facebook, or email [email protected]. NEWLY CERTIFIED MEMBERS The GEHA Board of Directors and Members congratulate individuals for completing the Environmental Health Specialist/Sanitarian Registration Program in 2012. Scott Uhlich Tamika Pridgon Dwain Butler Wendell Howell Lance Dasher FOR STUDENTS GEHA Membership is only $10/year! With your student membership you get: -A subscription to GEHA’s official publication, Georgia Environmentalist -Reduced price registration for the GEHA Annual Education Conference -Scholarship and mentorship opportunities -Committee internship opportunities Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 NEW GEHA on Facebook “Like” the GEHA Facebook Page, or “Join” the GEHA Members Group through your Facebook profile. Enjoy the convenience of connecting with your friends and colleagues. Share your favorite Environmental Health photos, videos, and other links with other GEHA members. 15 South Georgia Livin’ by Tamika Pridgon, R.E.H.S. Each region of Georgia has its endearing qualities, but I am partial to south Georgia living. From the weeping willows shrouded in moss to the magnificent wildlife, south Georgia offers numerous activities for residents and visitors. The tranquil scenery can be enjoyed by lovers of nature who partake in walking trails or bird watching. For the more active individual, sporting activities such as hunting and fishing offers many hours of enjoyment. South Georgia has something to offer for everyone ready to enjoy the outdoors as long as you can handle the gnats. Another perk of living in south Georgia is the slow pace. After living in Atlanta for 10 years with the hustle and bustle, returning home was welcomed. In south Georgia when someone says across town here, it literally means across town which is generally a 5 to 10 minute drive. In Atlanta, the term across town means a minimum of a thirty minute drive in good traffic. However, some south Georgians take the slow pace to the extreme. These individuals are who I refer to as “creepers”. When following a “creeper”, the best thing to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery. In regards to working in south Georgia, environmental health is approached from a different angle. During and after training, Environmental Health Specialists for the most part are treated as generalists. We are expected to be familiar with every service offered by Environmental Health, and because the field of Environmental Health covers several programs, this task can be quite daunting at times. Also, the fast pace in which public health is ever evolving, and therefore the task of familiarizing oneself with revised or new rules and regulations is more of a challenge. These challenges are tackled head on to keep Georgians and its visitors safe. One drawback of working in south Georgia, just as elsewhere, is the lack of resources to overcome language barriers. Language barriers further complicate the process of educating restaurant employees on a topic in which they may be unfamiliar, and finding literature that correctly explains a process can be difficult because it may be from another state with slightly different rules and regulations. Also in south Georgia, translators are limited. In these cases, the individual is responsible for finding a translator. Even with these challenges, Environmental Health Specialists continue to promote and protect public health. Living and working in south Georgia, as with any location, has its advantages and disadvantages. The pace of south Georgia is not for everyone; however while some consider south Georgia a nice place to visit and relax, for me south Georgia is home. 16 2013 GEHA ANNUAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE AGENDA June 6-7, 2013 Welcome and President’s Address Tad Williams, Georgia Department of Public Health Regional Approach to OSSM Planning Chris Kumnick, Land Use Program Director Georgia Department of Public Health WelStrom and Public Health: A GIS Approach to Land Use Planning Chris Strom, Information Services Director, Southern Georgia Regional Commission Seafood: From Ocean to Retail Dominic Guadagnoli, Shellfish Program Leader, Georgia Department of Natural Resources Sandy Shepherd, Shellfish Program Leader, Georgia Department of Agriculture NEHA United Kingdom Sabbatical Project Julia Campbell, M.P.H., Healthy Homes Program Consultant, Environmental Health Section, Georgia Department of Public Health Legionella Outbreak Investigation at Hotel: Lessons Learned Todd Driver, District Environmental Health Director, Coastal Health District Georgia Department of Agriculture Preparedness Updates Vanessa Sims-Greene, Director of Emergency Management, Georgia Department of Agriculture Local Environmental Health Response to Tornados Christy Blair, Environmental Health Manager, Gordon County Health Department John Klepper, Environmental Health Manager, Catoosa County Health Department ...And much more! Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 2012 CONFERENCE SNAPSHOTS GEHA 2012 Conference was held at the Georgia Farm Bureau in Macon, GA Left: Allison Strickland presents speaker gift to Peggy Gates. Middle left: Kathy Worthington presents speaker gift to William Hurst, PhD. Middle right: Kathy Worthington presents the speaker gift to Brian Bossack, PhD. Right: Dwain Butler presents speaker gift to Chris Kumnick. Left: Award winner Melinda Scarborough receives a GEHA Honorary Membership and Meritous Service award. Middle: Krissa Jones receives GEHA Member of the Year award. Right: Past President Allison Strickland receives the Past-President’s gavel from 2012-2013 GEHA President Tad Williams. GEHA attendees speaker presentations. Right: Chris Kumnick discusses important business with President Tad Williams while Galen Baxter, Wen Howell, and Ramona Carney look on. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 17 SPOTLIGHT ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Georgia Onsite Wastewater Association John Ford, President P.O. Box 1928 Duluth, Georgia 30096 678-646-0379 The Georgia Onsite Wastewater Association is the state-wide professional association which represents all those individuals and companies who are engaged in the design, sales, installation, maintenance, service and repair and regulation of individual onsite wastewater treatment systems for residential, commercial, industrial, governmental and institutional customers. GOWA, formed in 1997, has over 400 members throughout the state of Georgia. The membership is composed of a great diversity in sizes of member firms from the very large contractors to the very small family owned businesses. Regardless of the size, GOWA represents the professionals in the industry who have a genuine interest in improving the industry for the customer and all those involved in the industry on a daily basis. GOWA's goal is to promote quality and professionalism in the individual onsite wastewater industry in the state of Georgia and the demonstration of a genuine concern for the safety, and health of our customers by providing quality services. GOWA provides continuing education, networking opportunities, and legislative lobbying activities for the onsite wastewater system professionals across Georgia. ACHIEVEMENTS 2013 GOALS 2013: SEPTAGE DISOPOSAL SURVEY to show gaps in land GOWA strives to promote a common goal application needs. 2012: NEW LAND APPLICATION RULES REVISITED. 2008: HB 596 PROHIBITING SEPTIC SYSTEMS USE NOT PASSED. This allowed continued use of septic systems. 2006: SB 578 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING between 18 the Environmental Protection Division and the Health Department for commercial pumper truck inspections. 2005: HB207 PASSED licensure under this chapter shall not be required for a contractor certified by the Department of Human Resources to make the connection to any on-site waste-water management system from the stub out exiting the structure to an on-site waste-water management system 2005: STUDY COMMITTEE CREATED to review issues with land application; oversight moved to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. within the Onsite Wastewater Management Systems industry among businesses, and between business and public health. In 2013, GOWA is planning to achieve this by: Providing Continuing education for both systems installers and environmental health specialists Holding conferences in tandem with GEHA to attract new membership Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 FEATURED INTERVIEW SCOTT A. UHLICH, MCP Georgia Department of Public Health Scott A. Uhlich is Director of Environmental Health for the Georgia Department of Public Health. Mr. Uhlich is responsible for directing the activities of the Environmental Health Section including the Land Use Program; Food Service Program; Tourist Accommodations Program; Public Swimming Pool Program; Chemical Hazards Program; and the Healthy Homes/Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. Mr. Uhlich has 33 years of experience working in environmental health programs and is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. He began work as a County Environmental Health Specialist in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Mr. Uhlich also worked as District Environmental Health Director for the Northeast Health District, Athens, Georgia. He has received the Georgia Public Health Association Environmentalist of the Year and the Sellers-McCroan Awards. Mr. Uhlich has a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Health Science from the University of Georgia and a Masters Degree in City Planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology. GEHA: What are your favorite things about Georgia? Scott Uhlich: I’ve always enjoyed Georgia’s natural resources and the outdoors. Few states have mountains and beaches, the abundance of state parks, and recreational facilities. GEHA: What, in your opinion, will be the most important environmental health issues over the next few years? Scott Uhlich: We are beginning to see some states break apart environmental health as a comprehensive public health program and assign individual programs to other state agencies or privatize them. These states view environmental health programs as permitting and inspection activities because they do not understand the public health relevance of the programs. It will be very important for us to reinforce the public health reasons these programs exist and the importance they play to the foundation of public health. GEHA: What can other residents do to help improve Georgia’s environment? Scott Uhlich: I think the first thing residents can do is with their personal activities and home environment. Maintain your property free from litter, debris, and standing water; protect your well and test your well water annually; properly use and maintain your septic system; properly dispose of paints and chemicals; recycle materials to reduce waste, and use chemicals and pesticides in the environment sparingly and properly. GEHA: What can other residents do to help improve Georgia’s environment? Scott Uhlich: When I took over the Environmental Health Section, the program was facing budget cuts, high employee turnover, and lack of support from leadership. Over the last five years, the state Environmental Health Program Directors and Environmental Health District Directors have worked to develop and implement a comprehensive workforce development plan and career ladder aimed at achieving and maintaining a competent Environmental Health workforce. This was approved by leadership in February, 2013. The Environmental Health Information System (EHIS) is very important to the future of the Environmental Health program. This system allows us to assess the quality of our programs so we can continue to focus our activities on areas needing improvement. We have implemented and are utilizing EHIS data to evaluate program performance and inform leadership of Environmental Health achievements. As a result, Environmental Health now has data to share with leadership and decision makers to education and garner support for Environmental Health programs. The new leadership with the new Department of Public Health considers the Environmental Health Programs as essential, core public health programs. Continued next page... Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 19 Scott Uhlich Interview, continued... GEHA: In 2008, you received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Watershed Management award for adopting voluntary guidelines to protect national waterways. Congratulations! Then in 2008-2009, you completed the Environmental Public Health Leadership Institute program. Congratulations, again! What were your projects, and how did they influence your work? Scott Uhlich: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognition was for the changes Georgia achieved related to the management of on-site sewage management systems. At that time, Georgia was one of seven states that had achieved this recognition. This work included the adoption of new regulations, a new comprehensive manual, a certification program for contractors and environmental health specialists, and creation of a technical advisory committee. The recognition was the result of the work of many individuals, especially the work of county Environmental Health Specialists, and shows what can be achieved when we work together at all levels of the organization. The result is on-site sewage systems functioning properly and functioning longer to better protect state waters. My interest in the Public Health Leadership Program started with a concept called Systems Thinking. During this program, environmental health performance standards were discussed and a trial assessment tool based on the ten essential public health services was presented. With the help of State and District Environmental Health Directors, we began an assessment of the Georgia Environmental Health Program utilizing the Environmental Health Performance Standards Instrument. From that initial assessment, the Environmental Health leadership have developed performance standards for each Environmental Health program based on public health metrics, developed a workforce development plan and career ladder, developed an annual Environmental Health Assessment Report to inform leadership, policy makers, and the general public about environmental health achievements, and enhanced our partnerships with other state, federal, and local agencies which has resulted in greater cooperation and communication. GEHA: What is the most rewarding to you about your work? Scott Uhlich: I have always enjoyed the variety of the work, the changing challenges, and being able to work independently. As I began managing, I enjoyed the mentoring of new Environmental Health Specialists, and helping them advance their careers. I feel that I ‘e made some positive impacts to the quality of life for the people and communities I’ve served. In general, I’ve been fortunate to work with great people throughout my career. GEHA: Who have been the major influences in your life? Scott Uhlich: When I started managing others, my father told me to surround myself with smart people and don’t be afraid of hiring someone who may know more than you. I have followed that advice and have always believed in a participatory style of management. GEHA: Do you have any advice that you’d like to give to the members of GEHA? Scott Uhlich: Georgia Public Health has an aging leadership, and many opportunities for advancement are occurring. The new leadership will be comprised of those individuals who invest in themselves by becoming registered Environmental Health specialists and obtaining advanced degrees. GEHA: How can we best teach children about environmental and agricultural issues? Scott Uhlich: The best way to teach is lead by example. Properly dispose of waste, recycle and use products properly by following directions. Use opportunities to talk to community groups, classrooms, boys and girls clubs, or other groups and discussing how everyday environmental health activities affect their daily lives. 20 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 School Nutrition and Sustainability by Tonya Gray, M.P.A., R.S. Tonya Gray, M.P.A., R.S. is a Food Safety and Security Specialist for the School Nutrition Program at the Georgia Department of Education. Tonya has worked for the state of Georgia for a total of 28 years, first with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and then for the Georgia Department of Public Health. Tonya is an active member of the International Association of Food Protection, and Past President of both the Georgia Environmental Health Association (2004-2005) and the Georgia Association for Food Protection (2008-2009), and was the winner of the Georgia Environmental Health Association Member of the Year in 2007. The term sustainability has different certified building space with more than 23 meanings to different audiences, but the million square feet of Energy Star certified common definition is being responsible in areas. The third step is “Conserving using what resources you have today so Water” such as turning on water only when future generations will have what they will in use, repairing faulty plumbing, and need. This is summed up in a statement installing flow reducers and faucet aerators “Protecting the Future of Those We Serve” to name a few and gives a success story which is a mission statement printed on of Elizabethtown College. the front of a wonderful booklet The fourth step is the three R’s“Sustainability in School Nutrition “Reduce” (waste), “Reuse”-(not using Programs.” disposable tableware), and “Recycle”-(if It was compiled by Melinda A Wauka Mountain Multiple you use disposable tableware). At the Scarborough when she was working with Georgia Department of Education Intelligencies Academy the Georgia Department of Education just student holds freshly grown Equipment University in Tifton, Georgia before her retirement after many years of vegetables in Hall County. spring 2012, a recycle digester (pulper) great service in environmental health. using minimal amounts of water and Melinda is known by environmentalists for her many blades to convert food and disposables into tiny pieces years of great work in environmental health as an which reduces landfill amounts was onsite to allow environmentalist in the field to the state Food Service participants to view its magical results. A few schools Program director in the state office. Before she retired in Georgia that use disposables in their cafeterias she became very passionate about sustainability which actually have this equipment for part of their trash was clear when she presented the work of the School disposal process, for example Stephens County High Nutrition Programs making this happen in the schools School and in Chatham County. This is a wonderful in Georgia. innovation to reduce landfill volume and save water by The first step that the booklet suggests is that not running the dishwasher. In Moultrie, Georgia at school nutrition programs create a vision and “Take Colquitt County High School they use Stock” by evaluating and finding ways to be ThermoCompactor units to melt down the Styrofoam sustainable, stating that even small changes add up. trays used to serve meals each day. The block of The next step is “Conserving Energy” with suggestions melted material is then used to make items such as about how to accomplish Below Left: Pulper used by Stephens County. Below Right: flower pots & pencils. energy conservation. This Extractor which removes moisture from waste before disposal. The fifth step is to “Make step includes a Georgia Some Fuel” by converting success story where used cooking oil/grease into Glynn county schools biofuel and gives regulations saved $35,000 by turning that oversee that process and off water heaters and all how to find buyers to make that lights in winter break happen. The Lovett School, 2008 compared to winter winner of The Spirit of the break 2007 with these Green Award from the Georgia items left on. Gwinnett Recycling Coalition used a mini County won the Green refinery on campus and Ribbon District and leads produced 1,056 gallons of the nation for K-12 biodiesel fuel as of April 2009. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 21 School Nutrition and Sustainability, continued... The next several steps listed “Be a Green Cleaner” is step move toward successes in the nine which talks about eco-friendly Farm to School program with the cleaning with “green” products and sixth step being “Feed the techniques. This reduces water usWorms” via composting. Bleckley age during cleaning and harmful County third graders get produce chemicals ending up in our scraps from their school cafeteria streams. Catoosa County schools in a bucket that is left for them to in Ringgold, Georgia received an pick up and return once they honorable mention in the Green empty it into the compost barrel. The compost bin was Cleaning Award for Schools & Universities. donated to them by local farmers and has a handle The last step is to “Talk it Up” since sustainability that the students can rotate the compost themselves. needs to be practiced everywhere by everyone. The They use the compost in their school garden. In Ha- Georgia School Nutrition Programs are leading by exbersham County at Wilbanks Middle School, the Agri- ample in the school environment. This will become a culture teacher, Catrina Pollard started composting for way of life and trickle into homes and other workplaces the school garden. The students help by placing com- because students, teachers and parents work together post cans in the dish room line. in the school setting to make it happen whether The seventh step is to “Buy Local” foods from local through composting or school gardens efforts. There is farmers. This saves fuel costs in transport as well as a check list at the end of the booklet which was deincreased nutrition for the students vised to use as an assessment tool for for fresh produce consumption. Ten Steps to Sustainability evaluating sustainability progress in Gilmer County schools purchased school nutrition, but is helpful in any Ellijay apples in 2008/2009; Bleckley, 1. Take Stock application. 2. Conserve Energy Colquitt and Hall Counties participatMany of these steps have made it ed in the Feed My School for a Week 3. Conserve Water into classrooms as part of curriculum program in 2012, where they served 4. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle so that students can become educa75-100% Georgia Grown food on 5. Make Some Fuel tors to their families and take these their lunch menu for one week. More 6. Feed the Worms improvements on as lifestyle changes than 1,600 students were impacted 7. Buy Local so they become healthier and more by the program during the school 8. Plant a Seed sustainable citizens. This sustainabilyear and over 7,500 Georgia Grown 9. Be a Green Cleaner ity movement in the Georgia School school meals were served. In 2013 10. Talk it Up Nutrition Programs, that naturally infive additional school systems are volves farm to school practices, has participating in Feed My School for a Week program: made food served in Georgia healthier for students Bibb, Chatham, Forsyth, Grady, and Madison Coun- and teachers, and the school “greener” for sustaining ties. Observations and data gathering from these the environment. This is a win-win for students, teachweeks are used to help make Farm to School a sus- ers, and families in Georgia. tainable practice in Georgia. Tonya D Gray, MPA, RS Step eight is to “Plant a Seed”. School gardens are Food Safety and Security Specialist blossoming all over the state with one of the first being School Nutrition Program Central High School in Thomas County which was Georgia Department of Education planted and worked by the Future Farmers of America. 205 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive, SE Twin Towers East Green beans and squash were served by the school Atlanta, GA 30334 foodservice and corn was served for the end of the Phone: 404-463-6928 year teacher’s luncheon. Pre-K students went on a E-mail: [email protected] hayride and dug potatoes so they could learn farm to Web Page: http://www.ga.doe.org/fbo_nutrition.aspx school as well. The booklet is no longer in print, but can be found at the Georgia School Nutrition Program website: www.gadoe.org/Finance-and-Business-Operations/School-Nutrition/Pages/FNBSU.aspx. http://issuu.com/gadoenutrition/docs/sustainability?mode=window http://asumag.com/green_cleaning_award/gca-honorable-catoosa-201212 22 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Environmental Health and Pop Culture by Julia Campbell, M.P.H. First, I have to say, that this was one of the most fun article research assignments that I have done this year. Popcorn: check. Beverage: check. Big fuzzy blanket and quiet night in: check and check. However, when doing the preliminary research to find environmental health themes in media and popular culture, they were somewhat hard to come by. We do have tangential topics in our average television series, movies, artworks, and music, but how many really share the core of what we do? resounding 96% on the RottenTomatoes.com Tomatometer, translating as a super tasty FRESH tomato. This movie was well received by critics and general audiences alike, but it is truly fantasy. A rat who is a Master Chef that pleases the biggest food critic of high class restaurants, and the Environmentalist (or Health Inspector) is thrown in the closet so the restaurant isn’t shut down. Hmmm. Yeah. Not very realistic, but bonus points for creativity. For the few titles that I did come across, it was primarily in movies and television, so I am sharing some of my experience through these musings. Now, for those of you who haven’t heard of or seen these titles, I can’t share a synopsis for each title shared. I will have to rely on you to follow-up on your own and make up your own mind. And speaking of Hollywood... (or perhaps I’m not) I can’t help but bring up the honorable mention of a septic tank in the Four Yorkshiremen sketch shared Live at the Hollywood Bowl and created by members of Monty With that said, movies like Deliver Us from Eva and Larry the Cable Guy’s Health Inspector, show us the perception (or lack of understanding) about our profession. Considering the quality of these films, it is understandable how our profession has seen limited and less than favorable recognition in Hollywood pop culture. Health Inspector got a viewer rating of 5% on the Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer, equivalent to a rancid, rotten SPLAT. Deliver Us from Eva has better reviews (44%) on the Rotten Tomatoes Movie Rating website, which is roughly equivalent to a recently composted SPLAT. For both movies, however, general viewers mostly liked them (65% and 77%). bag in a septic tank. We used to have to get up at six in These films toy with an accurate description of what Environmentalists do, and I commend Hollywood for giving our profession some depth of attention, and with an attempt at incorporating humor which, frankly, made it more entertaining. Health Inspector attempts to paint the irony of a slob with disgusting habits enforcing health laws and investigating outbreaks; it gives at least some attention to the complexity of an Environmental Health Specialist’s work by showing how some things are just common sense, some things you can let go, but the big things will shut a business down. Conversely, Deliver Me from Eva succeeds in portraying how an environmentalist might be perceived as overbearing, bossy, and strict. It also touches on the politics of the career, and how a career driven Environmentalist is also human, though the movie probably exaggerates the types of professional attack from spiteful businesses inspected. That said, Hollywood did give a uniquely creative spin on an old taboo with Ratatouille. Ratatouille was given a Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 “You were lucky. We lived for three months in a paper the morning, clean the paper bag, eat a crust of stale bread, go to work down at the mill fourteen hours a day, week in, week out, for sixpence a week, and when we got home, our dad would thrash us to sleep with his belt.” Python’s Flying Circus, albeit a brief mention: How many violations can you count? The context of the quote presumably shares how tough life was in the old days, although I think it shares more about the propensity of these characters to exaggerate their hardships. Another favorite British Television comedy is the Fawlty Towers: Health Inspector episode. The episode indulges us Environmentalists with what can possibly go wrong at the hotel on the day the health inspector is scheduled to visit. Episodes of Sponge Bob Square Pants or Friends may also remind us of Environmental Health Specialists through the Krusty Krab or Central Perk. Another of my personal favorite food service inspection shows, (in)famous in the United Kingdom and the United States, is Gordon Ramsay’s reality television series Kitchen Nightmares. In this program, internationally renowned Scottish Michelin Star Master Chef Gordon Ramsay shares his insights and business savvy with restaurant owners in Britain and America, trying to help recover their failing restaurant businesses. No holds barred, Gordon Ramsay “tells it like it is”, and shares important health education such as: “Have you looked into your freezer?!? Did you really serve people this?? This will kill people!” 23 Environmental Health in Pop Culture, continued... Although not necessarily our style, and not even Eva’s style from Deliver Us from Eva, Gordon “gits’er done” with his brand of tough love for these restaurants, protecting patrons and educating restaurant owners and the general public worldwide. To Gordon I raise my glass of Guinness, or dram of Single Malt Whiskey (Lagavaulin please), and play the Mephiskapheles’ song “Yum Yum Bumblebee Tuna” way above acceptable noise levels of 85 decibels. Despite all the attention that food service has been given in popular media, there have been several films and television that delve into the darker side of Environmental Health - toxic pollution. Both A Civil Action and Erin Brockovich deserve entertainment kudos (both “Guaranteed FRESH” on the Tomatometer at 61% and 83% respectively), however embellished their stories may be with regard to the regulation and health protection against exposure to chemicals. The facts are correct, but the drama surrounding them has a smidge of Hollywood artistic license. In these films, the dirty underhandedness of these major industries is appalling, and gives credence to Environmental Health Specialists’ assessments. Too, although we may be young enough that we don’t know the occupational hazards of being a miner or chemical plant worker, we can certainly appreciate the importance of protective diligence, and the time and labor required to adequately investigate the potential for exposure and a link to disease. But then, my background has been toxic chemicals and land use, and I’ve never inspected restaurants. Another worthy contender in the hazardous waste category is the film turned television program, Toxic Avenger. Toxie is a humanoid creature created by a hazardous waste exposure accident who saves the world one little old lady at a time. Toxie stands out for his moral teachings, and his dashingly bad looks! The Oblongs cartoon series on the Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim also relies on the morallygood-but-horribly-deformed-by-hazardous-wasteexposure theme. Kinda reminds me also of the Simpson’s episode of the power plant toxic waste spill and the three-eyed fish. I will briefly mention films like Legend, Outbreak, Hot Zone, Contagion, or The Rock which intend to frighten us with a profound potential of unintentional 24 disasters or terrorism attempts, although Environmental Health Emergency Preparedness can appreciate the complexity shared in these dramatic portrayals. I will also only briefly mention the television series Bones, which offers exquisite scientific exploration, retracing the cause of death in which a couple of episodes which have mentioned causes of death spread through environmental or medical mechanisms. However, I do need to discuss one last television series developed recently that has made my quiet nights worthwhile. Filmed in downtown Atlanta, The Walking Dead is a television series that explores the largest outbreak threat of all to public health, and most certainly an environmental health issue: zombies, (not dead, but the un-dead). Funny enough, scenes filmed at our downtown quarry made me think of radon as an important Environmental Health threat, but clearly radon is not nearly as acutely dangerous as zombies. In The Walking Dead, the CDC tries to study zombies and determines that they carry a rabies-like virus that virulent and highly contagious, and has neurological as well as other physiological effects. Zombies require fresh animal blood, brains, and flesh for, uhhh, survival, and mixing your blood fluids from a Zombie transmits the virus infecting you with the disease, and thus turning you into a zombie as well. Several movies have played with this theme, Night of the Living Dead, Legend, and Shaun of the Dead being the most notable, but only The Walking Dead takes this public health threat straight to the CDC’s doorstep...and into their labs, and onto their MRIs and catscanners… well, you will just have to see for yourself. So in my endeavor to identify public attitudes and perceptions of the Environmental Health Profession in popular media and culture, I have succeeded primarily in being entertained, but each media review has also taught me how society values our work, and judging by the titles mentioned here, however we are perceived our work is priceless. Do you have a movie, tv, or radio favorite that you think reflects the work you do? Email or send it to me at [email protected]., or contact me through GEHA’s Facebook page! Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 Local Biodiesel Helps Reduce Exposure to Air Toxics by Anne Gilliam Blair Anne is the program director for Southern Alliance for Clean Energy’s (SACE) clean fuels and bioenergy programs, SACE’s Georgia Affairs Liaison and also marketing coordinator for Clean Energy Biofuel’s (CEB) retail station in Atlanta. In her position, she is engaged in policy analysis, outreach and research with an emphasis on clean transportation technologies and bioenergy on the state and federal levels. Anne joined the SACE staff in 2003. She is a member of the Green-E Governance Board, the Southeast Diesel Collaborative Leadership Council, serves on the Steering Committee for the Pine 2 Energy Coalition, is a graduate of the Environmental Leadership Institute, President of the Avondale-Rockbridge Civic Alliance, and a member of Decatur First Methodist Church. Anne previously worked for River Network in Washington, DC, The Fund for Public Interest Research Group, and was an AmeriCorps volunteer with the National Park Service on Fire Island, NY. She is a graduate of Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, VA. Diesel engines—cars, trucks, buses, construction equipment, trains, and marine vessels--operated on petroleum-based diesel (petrodiesel) fuel emit harmful air pollutants including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and over 40 chemicals that are classified as “hazardous air pollutants” or “toxic air pollutants” by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their cancer causing properties. Studies show that diesel exhaust contributes to cancer as well as asthma, premature death, diabetes, as well as respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. Biodiesel is a safer fuel. Biodiesel is 100% nontoxic, less toxic than even table salt, and biodegrades at the same rate as sugar, about four times faster than petroleum diesel. This makes biodiesel safer to store, handle and clean up. Biodiesel is a clean burning alternative to petrodiesel that can be used in any diesel-powered vehicles that produces far fewer emissions. Biodiesel is made from fats and oils that are chemically converted through a process called transesterification into a usable EPA approved transportation fuel. The most notable emissions reductions from using biodiesel over petrodiesel are of toxic air pollutants, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide. Diesel engines often operate in areas with high concentrations of people, such as construction sites and in urban areas, and these pollutants pose hazards to those who operate these engines, or live and work nearby. Using cleaner fuels will cut these pollutants thus reducing exposure and improving local air quality. Diesel engines are widespread for heavy-duty operations due to their durability and greater fuel efficiency than gasoline engines. While new diesel engines are getting cleaner thanks to new engine standards, older diesel engines will likely remain in a company’s fleet for many years. Using biodiesel is a simple, cost-effective solution for food trucks, farmers, landscape companies, contractors, tour buses and individuals with diesel cars and trucks who want to reduce their environmental and health impacts, carbon footprint and/or reduce oil consumption. Biodiesel is a domestic fuel. Biodiesel helps reduce demand for petroleum and reduces dependence on foreign oil. By using locally sourced and produced fuel, transportation costs are reduced, local emissions are reduced and local businesses grow. Biodiesel is currently available from Clean Energy Biofuels in Atlanta. The fueling station offers a 20% blend and 100% blend of biodiesel. The retail biodiesel fueling station is part of the U.S. Biodiesel is a compatible fuel. Biodiesel can be used Department of Energy’s Clean Cities I-75 Clean in any diesel engine without conversions. It adds Corridor program, which seeks to create the longest lubricity to your engine and help clean out old sulfur alternative fuels corridor in the United States. residue left from petroleum diesel fuel. One of the biggest misperceptions about biodiesel is that a diesel engine must be converted to use biodiesel. For More Information, visit www.cleanfuelscorridor.com Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 25 The National Environmental Health Association BOARD OF DIRECTORS UPDATE by John Steward, M.P.H., R.E.H.S. John Steward has been a leader in Environmental Health in Georgia for 25 years. Mr. Steward is a retired Captain from the U.S. Public Health Services and employee at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and is now a faculty member of Georgia State University, Institute of Public Health. In 2011, he became the Region 7 Vice President of the National Environmental Health Association. John Steward, M.P.H. The recent NEHA Board meeting agenda items may give you some idea of the issues that NEHA is addressing: 2014 – Las Vegas, Nevada 2015 – Orlando, Florida The 2013 NEHA Annual Educational Conference will be held in Washington D.C. Scholarship opportunities are available, and the NEHA “virtual conference” will again available online. NEHA’s overall financial picture remains solid. Unlike many other non-profit professional associations, NEHA is not planning to reduce programs, services, or staff. NEHA still has nearly 5,000 members worldwide. NEHA continues to be concerned about cutbacks incurred by government agencies and environmental health programs at all levels of government. Over the past few years, public health workforce has shrunk by 20% at the state and local level, and nearly all agencies have had some reductions. As you probably know, the federal government has experienced a widespread reduction in funding that has resulted in decreased support to state and local agencies, in addition to agencies’ reduced funding. Technical Advisor program NEHA has greatly expanded the Technical Advisor Program to give members with expertise in specific areas the opportunity to provide advice, develop papers, and help respond to issues that occur nationally and in states. It is intended to be a resource for expertise for both NEHA and its members. Many affiliates refer issues to NEHA for support and advice, and NEHA engages the advisors to respond. A list of the 20+ technical areas may be found on the NEHA.org web page. This is a great way to become involved in the organization. NEHA continues to be very active in food safety as one of its priority areas: NEHA is conducting a 5year program with FDA to support the Food Safety Modernization Act. NEHA has developed a new Certified Professional-Food Safety (CP-FS). This credential is distinct from other food safety and protection credentials in that it encompasses a more comprehensive view of safety in the food system. NEHA sponsors many food safety credentials and training programs and works extensively with states, local governments, and federal agencies including CDC and FDA. NEHA has developed new awards for innovation and for educational achievement that will be awarded for the first time this year. If you have not visited NEHA.org recently, check it out for its great resources including free training. Also, “like” us on Facebook. Changes in NEHA officers: NEHA’s President this year is Brian Collins, a local environmental health administrator in Plano, Texas. Next year, the NEHA President will be a Georgia resident! President-Elect Alicia Enriquez recently moved to the Atlanta area from California (welcome Alicia!) David Riggs of Oregon was elected to be 2nd Vice President. As I am completing my three-year term as Regional Vice President next year, I have been nominated for NEHA 2nd Vice President. The election will be in Spring 2014 for a term to begin in Summer 2014. 26 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 GEHA AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS Member of the Year Award The Member of the Year award is a way for GEHA to recognize one outstanding professional Environmentalist for their contributions to the field during the year. The winner is selected by the Nominations Committee after all nominations are received. The winner must be a GEHA member. Lifetime Achievement Award Lifetime membership is awarded to GEHA members who retire from the Environmental Health field. Science Fair Award The award recipient is selected from elementary, junior high and high school students at the Georgia State Science and Engineering Fair. Certificates of Meritorious Service, Appreciation, and Recognition Presented to GEHA members who exhibit outstanding service to the association. John J. Sheuring Scholarship This scholarship fund was established in 1967 in memory of John J. Sheuring. $750.00 is awarded to a Junior in the University of Georgia Environmental Health Sciences Program. Rowe Environmental Health Scholarship This scholarship is awarded to one undergraduate University of Georgia, Environmental Health Sciences student based on a combination of characteristics that lead to success as a professional including, but not limited to: enthusiasm, interest in public health, integrity, involvement in environmental health organizations, and success in environmental health courses. Irving Bell Golf Tournament Scholarship This scholarship award is based on academic achievement, financial need, letters of recommendations, statement of why s/he is choosing a career in Environmental Health, and evaluation of internship. The scholarship will consist of: $1550.00; recognition at GEHA’s AEC awards banquet; hotel room, meal expenses, and $100 for the AEC, courtesy of GEHA. Barnhart Scholarship for Environmental Health This scholarship is awarded to one undergraduate University of Georgia, Environmental Health Sciences student based on a combination of characteristics that lead to success as a professional including, but not limited to: enthusiasm, interest in public health, integrity, involvement in environmental health organizations, and success in environmental health courses. NEW! Randall Manning Scholarship Award This newly established fund in honor of Dr. Randall Manning is awarded to an undergraduate student who has had exemplary performance in an internship, especially those who performed well in Georgia Environmental Protection Division and government internships. NEW! Environmental Health Science Award This scholarship is awarded by the Environmental Health Science faculty and recognizes a top senior based on academics, activities, internships, and general success in the Bachelors of Science in Environmental Health major. Please contact Cathy Coleman, GEHA Executive Clerk at [email protected] for more information. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 27 VISIT GEHA ONLINE AT GEHA-ONLINE.ORG ~ GEHA NEWS ~ 2013 ANNUAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE (AEC) Thank you for joining us for the 2013 AEC at the Oceanfront Resort on Jekyll Island, GA from June 5-7, 2013. It was full of fellowship, fun, and information about current trends in food service, on-site sewage, agriculture, hazardous materials, and much more! Join us again in 2014 for the latest in the various disciplines of Environmental Health. Watch the GEHA website at www.geha-online.org for updated information. IRVIING BELL GOLF CLASSIC GEHA instituted the golf tournament as part of the annual education conference to raise scholarship money for Georgia college students pursuing environmental health careers. The tournament is named after Irving Bell, who retired from the Coca-Cola Company after many years as a supportive corporate liaison, and who remains a dedicated advocate for GEHA, and an avid golfer. 2013 IRVING BELL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS This year, the winner of the Irving Bell Scholarship is Amy Wong! Amy will receive a degree in Environmental Health Science from the University of Georgia. She is a rising Junior in Environmental Health Science bachelor’s degree program at the University of Georgia (UGA). Amy interned in Costa Rica working on a sustainability audit for the UGA Costa Rica Campus. ROWE ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCHOLARSHIP The 2013 Rowe Environmental Health Scholarship recipient was Andrew Caudill. Andrew graduated with his bachelor’s in Environmental Health, and Master’s in Public Health Environmental Health Science and Master’s of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Georgia. Andrew plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in with the Epidemic Intelligence Service. JOHN J. SHEURING SCHOLARSHIP Mary Baxter won the 2013 John J. Sheuring Scholarship! Mary is currently studying abroad in Australia and will return over this summer. Congratulations Mary! BARNHART SCHOLARSHIP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Savannah Laifer won the 2013 Dr. Harold and Mary Barnhart Scholarship for Environmental Health! Savannah is an exemplary junior in Environmental Health Science bachelor’s student at the University of Georgia. Congratulations Savannah! Continued on page 30. . . 28 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 VISIT GEHA ONLINE AT: GEHA-ONLINE.ORG ~ GEHA NEWS ~ . . . Continued from page 29 NEW! RANDALL MANNING SCHOLARSHIP Kyndall Dye received the 2013 Randall Manning Scholarship in its inaugural year! Kyndall is a senior majoring in entomology in the Environmental Health Sciences program at the University of Georgia. Kyndall received the award for completing a highly competitive internship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with the Summer Undergraduates Program in Environmental Health (SUPEH). Through her SUPEH internship at the CDC, she visited several well known sites with Environmental Health Officers, and gained experience in various disciplines including built environment, air quality, food safety, environmental justice, disaster and emergency response, and water quality. During her internship she gained experience working with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division in the air monitoring program. Among her greatest experiences was her involvement in a pilot project to reduce outbreaks of the insect vector-borne disease Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Arizona. Kyndall will be starting graduate school at the University of Kentucky in the coming Fall. Congratulations Kyndall! GEORGIA PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION ENVIRONMENTALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD ...for 2013 goes to Tim Callahan! Tim is the Evaluation Support Program Director for the Environmental Health Section at the Georgia Department of Public Health. Tim received a Bachelors of Business Administration in Business Management from North Georgia College and State University. Tim is also a graduate of the Environmental Public Health Leadership Institute at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tim has worked in Environmental Health since 1987 for the U.S. Army at Fort Benning, Georgia and Fort Greely, Alaska; as an Epidemiology Consultant at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research., and in Hall County. As this year’s recipient, Tim was recognized for establishing evaluation and support mechanisms for all Environmental Health operations throughout the state. He successfully implemented the Environmental Health Information System and the Digital Health Department, a publicly available electronic data collection, reporting, and evaluation tool, working closely with county and district Environmental Health staff with tireless patience and dedication. Tim’s vision and leadership brought a 15 year old plan into reality. Congratulations, Tim! NEW! ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE AWARD Adam Bowling is the recipient of this new award in its inaugural year! Adam has demonstrated excellence in academics, and is a University of Georgia in Athens (UGA) Presidential Scholar, Charter Scholar, and a National Merit Scholar. Adam has represented the College of Public Health, and has successfully completed his degree in the UGA honors program as an ambassador since 2011. Adam has traveled extensively throughout his college career including participating in the International Scholar Laureate Program in China in 2010, the UGA Global Program in Sustainability in Australia in 2011. Adam spent the Fall 2012 semester in Washington D.C. where he interned for the White House Council on Environmental Quality. Adam will be attending Stanford Law this fall. COLLABORATING WITH THE U.K. Through the efforts and connections of Rob Blake, former GEHA Officer, arrangements were made to twin with the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health’s (CIEH) London Centre in the United Kingdom. Our organizations link websites, share newsletter and journal articles, and regularly communicate ideas, philosophies, and practices to increase GEHA’s scope both nationally and abroad. This partnership includes offering GEHA members opportunities to work in the United Kingdom through professional exchanges! Founded in 1884, CIEH’s London Centre is one of 17 centers making up its national structure. Its major activities are the training and professional support of its members. This is accomplished through study groups for all Environmental Health subjects including food, housing, health and safety, and pollution. The Centre has nearly 1,100 members in the corporate, graduate, associate, student, and retired member categories, and became an associate body with the International Federation of Environmental Health in 2000. Visit GEHA’s website at www.geha-online.org for updated information! GEHA congratulates all of the scholarship and award winners! For information about scholarships and awards available through GEHA, please see page 28. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 29 Georgia Environmental Health Association, Inc. THANK YOU! The President and Officers of GEHA express their sincere appreciation and thank our sponsors and exhibitors for contributing to the success of the Georgia Environmental Health Association 2013 Annual Education Conference. Georgia Association for Food Protection GEHA SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 2014 GEHA Annual Education Conference Not only does sponsoring the GEHA Annual Education Conference show your company’s support for GEHA and environmental health in Georgia, it provides you with a valuable audience to promote your products and services. Sponsorship includes full conference registration, speaker opportunities, and an ad in the next issue of the Georgia Environmentalist. For information, contact Cathy Coleman, GEHA Executive Clerk, at [email protected]. www.gaafp.org An affiliate of the International Association for Food Protection The Georgia Association for Food Protection is a non-profit association of food safety professionals in Industry, Government, and Academia. Georgia Onsite Wastewater Association P. O. Box 1928, Duluth, GA 30096 Ph: 678-646-0369 Fax: 678-646-0379 Email: [email protected] Representing The Onsite Wastewater Industry -Installers, Pumpers, Environmentalists, Manufacturers, Soil Scientists, Suppliers, Engineers, etc. 67th ANNUAL INTERSTATE ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SEMINAR July 24-26, 2013 Hilton Garden Inn Kent Island, Maryland For more information, contact: John Beskid and Mark Williams 410-827-3877 85th Annual Meeting and Conference April, 2014 www.gapha.org (706) 583-2658 Christy Kuriatnyk, Chair GPHA Environmental Health Section www.wvdhhr.org/wvas/iehs www.kentisland.hgi.com 30 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 The Georgia Department of Agriculture publishes the Farmers and Consumers Market Bulletin, a biweekly newspaper with articles of interest to farmers and consumers as well as recipes, gardening tips, a calendar of events, classified advertisements and public notices. Subscriptions are $10 per year for Georgia residents, and $20.00 per year out-of-state subscribers. Send your subscription request via e-mail to Patricia Glenn, circulation manager, at [email protected]. Please include your complete mailing address and a daytime phone number. Or, you can call (404) 656-3722. You should receive your first copy within 2 – 3 weeks. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 31 Plastic Tubing Industries, Inc. PolyLok, Inc. Innovations in Precast, Drainage, and Wastewater Systems P.T.I. THE BEST WAY TO DRAIN.© 3 Fairfield Blvd. Wallingford, CT 06492 888-PTI-PIPE http://pti-pipe.com Telephone: (888) 765-9565 Fax: (203) 284-8514 www.polylok.com 1-888-275-3258 32 Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 GEORGIA ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP New Member _____ Renewal _____ (Please print or type) DATE: _______________ NAME: ___________________________________________________________ HOME ADDRESS: _________________________________________________ Number Street Apt. # _________________________________________________ City State Zip HOME PHONE: _________________________________ JOB TITLE ________________________________________________________ BUSINESS ADDRESS: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ _____________________________________________ BUSINESS PHONE: ______________________________ Please check the appropriate membership status: Active Member () $25.00 Associate Member ( ) $25.00 Student Member () $10.00 Active Members are those that are employed at or retired from jobs that involve environmental health as a major component of their occupation. Typically, Associate Members provide products for use in environmental health related activities. Associate Members may be anyone with an interest in environmental health issues. Student Members attend an accredited learning institution. Voting privileges in the Association shall be limited to Active Members and Honorary Members only. Please send application and check (made payable to GEHA) to: Georgia Environmental Health Association 397 Eastman Highway Hawkinsville, GA 31036 For more information, contact GEHA [email protected] or visit us online at www.geha-online.org If you move, please inform GEHA of your new address. Any GEHA publications will not be forwarded. Georgia Environmentalist Volume 35 33