Friday, August 3, 2012

Own a boat, have some free time, want to help with the Schuylkill River?

I have been asked to post a request for a volunteer to collect water samples from the Schuylkill River. If you own a boat and have some free time, please consider volunteering for this very important project! Thank you! **** Karen: I was wondering if you might know of someone who could help with some bacteria monitoring the Delaware Riverkeeper Network needs to do for a bacteria prediction model feasibility study. We need someone who could commit to following sampling protocols to collect about 12 Schuylkill River water samples in August and September on the Black Rock pool. Ideally the samples would be taken mid-channel, so we are hoping to find a local boater willing to help out. Samples then have to be delivered to a Spring City lab in roughly 6 hours. DRN Monitoring Director Faith Zerbe would meet with volunteers for training or do over the phone if necessary. Also, we will be following DEP protocols so the data can be used for the purposes of water quality standards as well. Any chance that you know someone who might be willing to collect samples? Also please feel free to share the link to the survey we are running for user of the middle Schuylkill (see below). Thanks. Chari Towne Users of the Middle Schuylkill River – Your input needed Do you use the middle Schuylkill River for recreation? If so, the Delaware Riverkeeper Network needs your help. We are preparing a feasibility study for a forecasting system for river pathogens (disease causing viruses or bacteria). The proposed forecasting system would predict potential levels of pathogens in the reach of the Schuylkill River from Pottstown to Phoenixville. Your answers to this survey will provide insight into the questions river users have about the health of the river and help the Delaware Riverkeeper Network to prepare recommendations for a viable Pottstown to Phoenixville river pathogen forecasting system. This survey will be open through August 15th. Take the Survey here: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e60ihh1nh379cevo/start Thank you for taking part in this survey. Your feedback is important to us. Please feel free to share this survey with your friends who use the Schuylkill River in the Pottstown to Phoenixville area. Schuylkill Programs Delaware Riverkeeper Network 925 Canal Street, Suite 3701 Bristol, PA 19007 Phone: 215-369-1188, ext. 109 Cell: 610-469-6005 Fax: 215-369-1181 The Delaware Riverkeeper Network: Because a River can’t defend itself.

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Phoenixville's 4th of July!

I'm sure you'll join in my kudos to D & M for the fantastic 4th of July fireworks show in Phoenixville last night! The 35 minute extravaganza leading up to the explosive finale was rivaled by the thunderous applause and unrestrained cheers of appreciation from the crowd gathered at Friendship Field! Thank you, D & M! I also want to take this opportunity to once again thank our sponsors, Phoenixville Federal Bank and Trust, Phoenixville Hospital, the Phoenixville Jaycees, Susquehanna Bank, Petrucci's, Tracy Wilke, Lowes, the Phoenixville Area Business Association, Kendrick Buckwalter, the Michaels, and our numerous private donors. Our volunteers who worked on fundraising for the fireworks event deserve a big hug the next time you see them! Courtney Harvey, Stephanie Pontin, Kristen Caperila and family, Pam Gates, Bryana Gates, Kayla Johns, Cami Johns, Sandy and Joe Horvath, Michael Hill and Tony Reily. Job well done! Thank you! A heartfelt thank you goes to all the Phoenixville Borough Streets Department employees, as well as the Police, Fire Department, and Public Works Director Brian Watson, each who took time away from family and friends over the holiday to work making the event a flawless and safe venue for all our residents. Your attention to detail and your presence under such extreme heat conditions was incredible. Thank you! Thanks also go out to our wonderful vendors who provided much appreciated food and refreshments for the crowd! In this wrap of the 14th annual 4th of July Phoenixville Fireworks event I want to say God Bless our troops for their service to our country, and God Bless each and every one of you! I hope you had a wonderful 4th of July!

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Phoenixville's 14th Annual 4th of July Fireworks Event

Will be held on July 04, 2012 at Friendship Field, the fireworks event is scheduled for approximately 9:15-9:30 p.m. Rain date is July 05, 2012. Food and beverage vendors, Petrucci's Water Ice, and small toys, etc., will be available prior to the show. Please bring lawn chairs, blankets, etc., and remember, no dogs or alcohol. Please consider donating to Phoenixville's 2012 Fireworks event. Donations may be made to Phoenixville Borough, 140 Church Street, Phoenixville, PA, or by contacting me. Thank you and enjoy the show!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

ALERT! Attempted abduction in Phoenixville

Received via email from a concerned parent:

Dear Parents / Guardians:

This morning there was an attempted abduction of a student as she was walking to CAT Pickering Technical School. The attempted abduction took place near the intersection of Potthouse and Charlestown Roads. A white male, approximate age 40, with grey hair and scruffy facial hair, driving a older grey colored Ford F150 pickup truck with a black bumper sticker of a fishi...ng rod in the back window behind the driver, pulled up beside the female student as she walked along the road. The person attempted to grab her and pull her into the truck. The girl ran away from the vehicle and made her way to CAT Pickering School where she reported the incident. CAT Pickering administrators immediately notified the police.

This incident reminds all of us of the need to be vigilant at all times. Phoenixville Area Schools will, age appropriately, let the students know of the incident and remind all students of the precautions they should be taking while walking around their neighborhoods.

If you have any information or see a vehicle matching the description, please call the Schuylkill Township Police Department or 911.

Alan

Alan D. Fegley, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Phoenixville Area School District
386 City Line Avenue
Phoenixville, PA 19460

Friday, December 2, 2011

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT WESTRIDGE - PHOENIXVILLE, PA

Dear friends and associates, some of you may wonder why you are receiving this – it’s simply because we don’t want to miss anyone so we are sending this to our contact list.



My grandson, Andy Bailey and I have been building our Christmas Village since Christmas 1990 (he was just 5 then). Fourteen years ago we leased a permanent home in the basement of the Westridge office / Victorian farmhouse at 970 Township Line Rd., Phoenixville, and opened our village up to all who wish to enjoy the Christmas “whimsy” of our display.



Please pass this on to any of your friends might be interested in visiting our Christmas Village,



Whether you live near Phoenixville or are far away, we wish you a very merry Christmas!,



Pat & Brad Peck and our grandson, Andy Bailey.



CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT WESTRIDGE - PHOENIXVILLE, PA - SHOW HOURS

Come see our Christmas Village at Westridge

in the basement of the Westridge Farmhouse (office)

970 Township Line Road, Phoenixville, PA



Over 150 lighted porcelain houses, trains and lots of other animation.



14th year at Westridge!

“spectacular and inspiring” - The Phoenix, "phenomenal" - The Mercury,

"miniature Engineering Marvel" - Daily Local News



Hours: 2 to 4 p.m.



DATES:





Saturday Dec 3 Sunday Jan 18

Sunday Dec 4 Saturday Dec 24

Saturday Dec 10 Saturday Dec 31

Sunday Dec 11 Saturday Jan 21

Saturday Jan 17 Sunday Jan 22



Hours: 2 to 4 p.m.



For directions and more information see our web site at:

Click here for the ►CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

http://mysite.verizon.net/patandbrad/christmas/



Or for directions click on

http://mysite.verizon.net/patandbrad/christmas/id13.html



or call me at (610) 983-0129

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Limerick License Renewal - PLEASE TAKE ACTION! GET YOUR CONCERNS ON THE RECORD!

Received via email for distribution.

****

ACTION ALERT


NRC IS DECIDING THE FATE OF OUR REGION



Your Health and Everything You Own

Are Further At Risk!



PLEASE TAKE ACTION!

GET YOUR CONCERNS ON THE RECORD!



Write NRC

DEADLINE 10-28-11



E-Mail: Lisa.Regner@NRC.gov



OR Mail To: U.S. NRC

Lisa Regner, License Renewal

Mailstop TWB-05-BO1 M

Washington, D.C. 20555



Include:

Limerick License Renewal - NRC I.D. Docket 2011-0166



PLEASE Forward This Information To Friends, Family, Neighbors, Co-Workers

Urge Them To Take Action!




NRC MUST STOP RE-LICENSING AGING NUCLEAR PLANTS LIKE LIMERICK

BEFORE ITS TOO LATE

LIMERICK MUST BE CLOSED, NOT RELICENSED,

TO PROTECT OVER 8 MILLION PEOPLE



CONTACT ELECTED OFFICIALS TODAY

Ask Them To Contact NRC And

OPPOSE Limerick Relicensing



Their Voices Are Urgently Needed Too!

The Body Of Evidence For Them To Support This Request Is Overwhelming!

See Attached List Of Officials' Phones, Faxes, Addresses





Limerick Nuclear Plant's Harms and Threats

Profoundly Impact Millions Of The Region's Residents.



Limerick Harms and Threats Are Unprecedented!



Limerick Nuclear Plant's License Expires In 2029 - Exelon Wants To Run It Until 2049

Threats and Harms, Already Unacceptable After 26 Years, Are Increasing!



Since 1985, Unprecedented Environmental Harms, Threats, and Risks From Limerick Include:



1. Radiation Into Air and Water From Routine and Accidental Emissions



2. Major Air Pollution Under Health Based Standards of the Clean Air Act



3. Schuylkill River Depletion and Major Drinking Water Contamination



4. Radioactive Groundwater Contamination



5. Radiation Reporting Levels Increased Dramatically After Japan Disaster



6. Alarming Cancer Increases, Especially In Children, Since Limerick Started Operating



7. Deadly High Level Radioactive Wastes Packed In Vulnerable Fuel Pools On Site



8. Lax Fire Safety Regulations



9. Accidents and Leaks From Corroding, Deteriorating Equipment Plus Miles of Buried Pipes and Cables



10. Increased Risk of Meltdown From More Frequent and Stronger Earthquakes and

Other Natural Disasters



11. Threats From Unguarded Terrorist Attacks With Planes and Missiles, Cyber Attacks



12. Need for an Updated Evacuation Plan and Increased EPZ



13. Increased Costs to the Public - More Cancers and Other Costly Illnesses, More

Emergency Room Visits and Hospitalizations from Massive Increases in PM-10 and TDS, Treatment of Public Drinking Water, Environmental Clean-Up



14. Dangerous, Dirty, Harmful, and Costly Nuclear Power Is Not Needed. It Can And Should Be Replaced With Safe, Clean, Renewable Energy.



List Compiled By The Alliance For A Clean Environment - September 2011



Conclusion: Harms, threats, and risks can and should be expected to increase continuously until Limerick's current operating licenses expire in 2029. It woulACTION ALERT




NRC IS DECIDING THE FATE OF OUR REGION



Your Health and Everything You Own

Are Further At Risk!



PLEASE TAKE ACTION!

GET YOUR CONCERNS ON THE RECORD!



Write NRC

DEADLINE 10-28-11



E-Mail: Lisa.Regner@NRC.gov



OR Mail To: U.S. NRC

Lisa Regner, License Renewal

Mailstop TWB-05-BO1 M

Washington, D.C. 20555



Include:

Limerick License Renewal - NRC I.D. Docket 2011-0166



PLEASE Forward This Information To Friends, Family, Neighbors, Co-Workers

Urge Them To Take Action!




NRC MUST STOP RE-LICENSING AGING NUCLEAR PLANTS LIKE LIMERICK

BEFORE ITS TOO LATE

LIMERICK MUST BE CLOSED, NOT RELICENSED,

TO PROTECT OVER 8 MILLION PEOPLE



CONTACT ELECTED OFFICIALS TODAY

Ask Them To Contact NRC And

OPPOSE Limerick Relicensing



Their Voices Are Urgently Needed Too!

The Body Of Evidence For Them To Support This Request Is Overwhelming!

See Attached List Of Officials' Phones, Faxes, Addresses





Limerick Nuclear Plant's Harms and Threats

Profoundly Impact Millions Of The Region's Residents.



Limerick Harms and Threats Are Unprecedented!



Limerick Nuclear Plant's License Expires In 2029 - Exelon Wants To Run It Until 2049

Threats and Harms, Already Unacceptable After 26 Years, Are Increasing!



Since 1985, Unprecedented Environmental Harms, Threats, and Risks From Limerick Include:



1. Radiation Into Air and Water From Routine and Accidental Emissions



2. Major Air Pollution Under Health Based Standards of the Clean Air Act



3. Schuylkill River Depletion and Major Drinking Water Contamination



4. Radioactive Groundwater Contamination



5. Radiation Reporting Levels Increased Dramatically After Japan Disaster



6. Alarming Cancer Increases, Especially In Children, Since Limerick Started Operating



7. Deadly High Level Radioactive Wastes Packed In Vulnerable Fuel Pools On Site



8. Lax Fire Safety Regulations



9. Accidents and Leaks From Corroding, Deteriorating Equipment Plus Miles of Buried Pipes and Cables



10. Increased Risk of Meltdown From More Frequent and Stronger Earthquakes and

Other Natural Disasters



11. Threats From Unguarded Terrorist Attacks With Planes and Missiles, Cyber Attacks



12. Need for an Updated Evacuation Plan and Increased EPZ



13. Increased Costs to the Public - More Cancers and Other Costly Illnesses, More

Emergency Room Visits and Hospitalizations from Massive Increases in PM-10 and TDS, Treatment of Public Drinking Water, Environmental Clean-Up



14. Dangerous, Dirty, Harmful, and Costly Nuclear Power Is Not Needed. It Can And Should Be Replaced With Safe, Clean, Renewable Energy.



List Compiled By The Alliance For A Clean Environment - September 2011



Conclusion: Harms, threats, and risks can and should be expected to increase continuously until Limerick's current operating licenses expire in 2029. It would be irresponsible for NRC to approve license renewals until 2049.



Attached Are Packets Which Can Be Printed And Circulated.

They Clarify Some Issues Above Including:

A. Limerick's Routine Radiation Releases Linked To Skyrocketing Cancer Increases

B. Limerick Destroying The Schuylkill River

C. Meltdowns, Evacuation Plans, Emergency Plans

D. NRC's Weakened Regulations, Lax Enforcement, Negligence, Rubberstamp Permitting

E. News - Articles On NRC'S Failed Policies and Oversight

F. Exelon Deception

G. Financial Injustice and Deception

H. Limerick's Electric Can Be Replaced - There Is No Need To Relicense Dirty, Dangerous, Costly Limerick Nuclear Power

I. Solar News Dispels Exelon "Myths"



For more information on harms, threats, and risks from Limerick Nuclear Power Plant

Visit: www.acereport.org



For Questions Or If You Can't Open Attachments

Contact ACE (610) 326-2387 aceactivists@comcast.net



Why Your Voice Is Urgently Needed!



Exelon is buying silence and support for their profits over your health and safety, through campaign contributions and donations. Your voice is needed in support of your interests instead of Exelon's profits.





NRC's public hearing 9-22-11 was stacked in favor of Limerick relicensing by a parade of people with a vested interest for one reason or another. They focused on financial issues, while ignoring unprecedented harm and risks to the health and safety of you and your family. Many supported Limerick relicensing based on outright lies, claiming Limerick was clean, safe, and reliable. Facts clearly dispute those lies. Limerick is filthy, NOT clean. Limerick is a ticking time bomb, NOT safe. Nuclear power is NOT always on. It has had to be shut down (sometimes, for long periods), due to earthquakes, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, drought and heat, human error, and more.



Exelon's contributions are buying silence and support at the expense of your family's health and safety. Officials and organizations have either remained silent or supported Limerick relicensing , in spite of overwhelming evidence of unprecedented harms and risks provided to them by ACE for many years.



Too many value campaign contributions and donations over your health and safety. Just two examples:

· PA Representative Tom Quigley took $5,000 from Exelon in campaign contributions and spoke in favor of relicensing, claiming it was because only two people contacted his office opposed to Limerick relicensing.

· Limerick's threats and harms to the Schuylkill River, a vital drinking water source for almost two million people from Pottstown to Philadelphia, are unparalleled. Yet, the Schuylkill River Heritage Foundation, that should be protecting the river, instead turns a blind eye for Exelon's donations. Tim Fenschel, Schuylkill River Heritage Member, testified to NRC 9-22-11 In Pottstown, in support of Limerick relicensing.



The facts clearly show it is not in our best interests for Limerick Nuclear Plant to be relicensed from 2029 to 2049. We don't need Limerick's dirty, dangerous, and costly electricity. Limerick's electric can be replaced long before 2029, in spite of Exelon's desperate deceptive attempts to suggest otherwise,



It is too dangerous to operate beyond 2029. Limerick Nuclear Plant was licensed for 40years, based on its life expectancy. Yet, Exelon and NRC are trying to claim otherwise. Shamefully, while claiming parts are being replaced, at the same time NRC and industry admit some parts (which can become brittle and wear thin), are too big and too expensive to replace.

Many of you could not attend the public hearing for a wide variety of reasons.

Ø BUT, there is still an opportunity for you to have your concerns counted on the record.





PLEASE TAKE TIME TO SPEAK UP NOW! DEADLINE OCTOBER 28, 2011



1. Contact NRC. GET YOUR CONCERNS ON NRC'S PUBLIC HEARING RECORD.

E-Mail: Lisa.Regner@NRC.gov

OR Mail To: U.S. NRC

Lisa Regner, License Renewal

Mailstop TWB-05-BO1 M

Washington, D.C. 20555



2. Call or write all elected officials today. They can make a huge difference!

In many other states and nations, elected officials have taken action to protect the health, safety, and future of their citizens, working to close their nuclear plants. URGE ELECTED OFFICIALS TO CONTACT NRC AND OPPOSE LIMERICK RELICENSING - BEFORE 10-28-11.

Phone, Fax, Address List Attached.



Questions? Contact Donna Cuthbert

(610) 326-2387 or aceactivists@comcast.net



More Information - www.acereport.org

Watch "The ACE Report" PCTV, Channel 28, Tuesdays, 7 to 8 P.M.



Background:



The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is the agency charged with protecting public health and safety, and the environment related to the operations of nuclear plants. NRC has been required to do an Environmental Impact Statement on Limerick Nuclear Plant in relation to relicensing from 2029 to 2049. NRC is taking public comments on Limerick Nuclear Plant's environmental harms and threats to public health and safety until October 28, 2011.



Ø If you don't speak out, Limerick Nuclear Plant's unprecedented environmental harms and threats will be ignored by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), an agency all too happy to ignore them on behalf of Exelon's profits.



It is imperative for you to get your comments on NRC's public hearing record.

ü NRC's weakened regulations, lax enforcement, and negligence have destroyed their credibility and left us vulnerable to disaster.

ü NRC has been called more of a lapdog than a watchdog.

ü NRC has been promoting nuclear power, rather than protecting our health and safety.



Environmental and Cancer Harms and Threats

· Since 1985, Limerick has poisoned our air, water, vegetation, soil, food, and us with a broad range of radionuclides from routine operations. The National Academy of Sciences and Physicians for Social Responsibility have said there is no safe level of radiation exposure. Obviously, Limerick has been a major factor in cancer rates in six communities near Limerick that skyrocketed far above the national average, from 1985 when Limerick started operating to the late1990s, especially in children. See attached Radiation and Cancer Links.

· Each day Limerick operates, more radiation will be released increasing our risk for cancer and other health harms. But that's not all. ACE recently learned from Limerick's most recent air pollution and water contamination permits that Exelon requested drastic increases in dangerous air pollution from Limerick's cooling towers, discharges from Limerick into the Schuylkill River at four times Safe Drinking Water Standards, and more pumping of contaminated unfiltered mine water to supplement the Schuylkill River flow to operate Limerick. Exelon is also asking to eliminate important river safeguards and public participation and to reduce monitoring. Limerick had leaks and spills that contaminated the groundwater with radiation.



Elected and agency officials, regional organizations, spoke for Exelon's profits, not your health and safety.

· At NRC's public hearing September 22, 2011 in Pottstown, too many Exelon executives and those with a vested interest totally disregarded the reality of unprecedented risks and harms to our region from Limerick Nuclear Plant operating 60 years. They shamelessly supported Limerick relicensing, valuing Exelon's profits and donations to their campaigns and/or special interests, over the health and safety of millions.

· Attached is a letter I submitted to the Mercury, identifying some of the elected officials who failed to take a position to protect our region and its residents. Only one elected official spoke on behalf of public interests, Michael Moyer, East Coventry Supervisor. His letter is attached.



The financial injustice of Limerick Nuclear Plant is appalling!

· As ratepayers and taxpayers we've been victimized far too long by Limerick Nuclear Plant and its owners PECO/Exelon. Attached is a summary of the economic injustice we suffered as a result of Limerick.



Only closing Limerick can prevent the potential for catastrophic consequences from a meltdown.

· Limerick cannot be made failsafe. Prevention is imperative! The evacuation plan is based on illusion. Attached is a summary about earthquakes and other risk factors for meltdown.



PLEASE PASS THIS INFORMATION TO FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND NEIGHBORS.

ENCOURAGE THEM TO SPEAK OUT NOW TOO.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

ALERT - NRC Meeting on Limerick's Environmental Harms and Threats 9-22-11

ACTION ALERT!

Received via email:


There's An Opportunity For You To Speak Out To Help Stop Limerick Nuclear Plant's
Unprecedented Environmental Harms And Health Threats



After 11 years of collecting a body of evidence of extraordinary harms and threats associated with Limerick Nuclear Plant's routine operations, it's clear to ACE that Limerick must be closed, not relicensed.



For Issue Summaries and Viewing Latest ACE Report TV Shows: www.acereport.org
For Fact Sheets Call ACE (610) 326-2387



The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) will be making a decision that will greatly impact the health and safety of your family and future generations. There is an opportunity for the public to weigh in on issues the Nuclear Regulatory Commission should evaluate as potential Environmental Impacts of an extension of Limerick Nuclear Plant's Operating License.



NRC Will Hold Two Meetings and On-The-Record Public Hearings

Date: Thursday, September 22, 2011

Time: 2:00 P.M. and/or 7:00 P.M.

Location: Sunnybrook Ballroom, Pottstown

50 N. Sunnybrook Road in Pottstown



ACE will have an information table from 1 to 2 and 6 to 7.





Limerick's Environmental Threats and Harms

Impact Families From Pottstown to Philadelphia



Take This Opportunity To Object

To Being Continuously Poisoned By Limerick Nuclear Plant's Radiation and Other Dangerous Toxics.



NRC won't protect you because it's the ethical and moral thing to do. Your voice is needed now!

NRC previously weakened regulations and safeguards, jeopardizing your future to accommodate Exelon profits.

NRC's Denial, Weakened Regulations, and Negligence Can Lead To Disaster!



Tell NRC: Limerick Must Be Closed, NOT Relicensed!



Evidence shows Limerick's electric can be replaced with energy that won't poison you and your environment with radiation and other dangerous toxics every day, or threaten to turn you into a nuclear refugee losing everything you own. FACT: Limerick can close and the lights won't go out!



Major Threats Will Continue As Long As Limerick Operates.

Serious Harms Will Increase If Limerick Is Relicensed.





Detailed Information On Limerick's Threats and Harms Were Compiled By ACE

For More Information Call (610) 326-2387



1. Routine Radiation Releases

Every day Limerick operates you and your environment will be poisoned with a broad range of radionuclides,

including two you heard about associated with Fukushima - Iodine-131 and Cesium-137.

Radionuclides associated with Limerick's operations are already confirmed in our region's air, water, vegetation, soil, milk, fish, and children.



2. Unprecedented Threats To Drinking Water

Detailed Information Available On Each Issue Below:



A. Continued Radioactive Contamination of the Schuylkill River, 24 Hours A Day, 365 Days A Year, With More Radiation Showing Up At Water Treatment Plants From Limerick to Philadelphia, without being continuously monitored or filtered out. (Phoenixville Water Works, American Water Works, Aqua PA, and Philadelphia Water Department).



B. Schuylkill River Depletion By Over 12 Billion of Gallons Each Year Due To Cooling Towers



C. Pumping of Contaminated Unfiltered Mine Water Into the Schuylkill River to Operate Limerick.



D. Huge Increases In Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Discharges From Limerick Into The River. TDS can transport a broad range of radionuclides and other toxics used at Limerick into the river. TDS increases can cost water treatment companies more for treatment and equipment, cost the public more for drinking water, and increase a broad range of serious health problems.



E. Radioactive Leaks and Spills Contaminated Groundwater. Exelon's limited and questionable self-monitoring doesn't guarantee radioactive contamination hasn't already spread. Earthquakes could be shaking and breaking buried pipes carrying radioactive water. Deterioration and corrosion could also cause leaking. Radioactive leaks could go undetected for long periods and spread into hundreds of residential wells.



3. Huge Increases In Major Air Pollution From Limerick's Cooling Towers and Other Limerick Air Pollution Sources

Detailed summary available.



4. Cancer Increases, Especially in Children.

After Limerick started operating in 1985, there were shocking cancer increases far above the national average,especially in children. Detailed summaries are available.

Other serious health problems far above state averages, associated with Limerick's radiation releases and other dangerous toxics include:

Infant and neonatal mortality

Lower Respiratory Diseases

Cerebrovascular Diseases



Exelon Has Pending and Recently Approved Permit Requests for Limerick Nuclear Plant that Will Significantly Increase Environmental and Health Harms, as well as Financial Costs to the Entire Region.



Limerick's License Doesn't Expire for 18 More Years. Relicensing Would Result In Operating Limerick 20 More Years (After 2029).



Everyday Limerick Operates Our Risks Increase:



· Every day for 20 more years, more radiation would be released into our air, water, food, soil, vegetation, and fish, poisoning us, our children, and future generations with additive and synergistic radiation doses from many routes of exposure.



· Risks of more radioactive leaks and spills into groundwater from miles of buried deteriorating, corroding pipes, as well as increasing and more dangerous earthquakes.



· Drinking water from the Schuylkill River will be further at risk, both from depletion and concentrations of synergistic combinations of Limerick's radiation releases with other dangerous toxics, and mine water pumping.



· As a major polluter under health based standards of the Clean Air Act, Limerick's dangerous air pollution toxics will continue, and include harmful permitted increases.



Schuylkill River -Exelon Asked To:



· Increase Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) discharges from Limerick, to limits four times "Safe Drinking Water Standards".



· Eliminate temperature restrictions, lower flow restrictions, reduce monitoring, and eliminate future public participation.



· Pump more contaminated mine pit water (adding more mines) into the river (UNFILTERED) to supplement the river flow for Limerick operations.



Air Pollution From Cooling Towers:



· Limerick was granted the permit conditions in 2009 that allow an 8-fold increase in dangerous Particulate Matter (PM-10) from the cooling towers.



Uprates - Exelon Asked To:



· Run Limerick harder, causing more air pollution, more water contamination and water use, as well as increased risk of disaster.



· Exelon was already allowed to have small uprates for Limerick, but in addition wants even larger Uprates.



Public Costs For Approvals Of Exelon's Relicensing and Increased Pollution Have Been Ignored.



· Public's Costs Associated With Limerick's Pollution Are Obviously Astronomical! PUBLIC COSTS For Relicensing Would Dwarf Any Benefits Claimed By Exelon.



Increased Costs For Additional Harms and Threats Need To Be Evaluated and Include:



Cancer Increases Above The National Average. For Example:

One Child Tracked in 2009 (From Age 6 Months to 2 Years) - Expenses Over $2.2 Million

Childhood Cancer Rates Skyrocketed to 92.5% (1995 to 1999) Higher Than The National Average In Six Communities Close to Limerick. The upward trend shows a link to Limerick. Limerick started operating in 1985. Rates rose to 30% higher by late 1980s, 60% higher in early 1990s, then 92.5% higher by late 1990s.



Thyroid Cancers Increased Above The National Average. For Example:

Thyroid Cancer Rates Increased by 128% in Montgomery County, Home of Limerick, from 1985 when Limerick started to 1997. The 1998, 1999, 2000 rates were 75% higher than the national average.

Limerick links are clear:

- We know Limerick's radiation releases impact the thyroid

That's why potassium iodide pills are distributed for an accident.

- Thyroid Cancer Rates for Counties Downwind and Closest to Limerick

Montgomery County - 56.2% higher than U.S. average - mid 2000s

Chester County - 53.9% higher than U.S. average - mid 2000s

Berks County - 14% higher than U.S., but upwind - mid 2000s



Infant and Neonatal Mortality Far Higher Than The State Average Previously.



Increased Emergency Room Visits and Hospitalizations From Increased Asthma Attacks, Other Serious Respiratory Disease and Disabilities, Including Heart Attacks and Strokes - From Increased PM-10 and other Toxics Emitted From Limerick's Cooling Towers.



Increased Costs to Water Systems and Their Water Customers (Pottstown to Philadelphia) From More Mine Water Pumping That Includes: TDS, Manganese, and Iron - Far Higher Than Standards.



Increased Costs for Public Water Systems and Their Customers Due To Limerick's Toxic Packed TDS Discharges Four Times Higher Than Safe Drinking Water Standards from Phoenixville to Philadelphia.



NOTE: Exelon, makes billions in profits each year. Its CEO makes millions, yet Exelon has failed to install the kinds of filtration that could effectively reduce contamination into the river from mine water pumping, its own wastewater discharges, and our air.

Disaster Recovery Center opens in Chester County

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and Chester County Department of Emergency Services has opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to help residents and business owners with their recovery from the recent storms and flooding. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to answer questions about low interest rate loans.

Opening Date: September 20, 2011

Address: Chester County Government Services Center
601 Westtown Road, Room 042
West Chester, PA 19380

Hours: Tuesday (September 20) from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Beginning Wednesday (September 21) 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Disaster officials recommend that you register before visiting a DRC so if you have any questions about the application process they can be answered face to face. You may visit any DRC regardless of where you live or work.

To register for assistance, call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Disaster assistance applicants who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY should call 1-800-462-7585 directly. Or register at DisasterAssistance.gov; the screens will prompt you through the registration process. You can also apply by web-enabled device at m.fema.gov. For those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), Call 1-800 621-3362. Operators assist callers seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

ALERT! Mosquito spraying set for East Vincent Township & Phoenixville Borough

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2011
News Release #34
For more information call 610-344-6752

Mosquito Spraying set for East Vincent Township and Phoenixville Borough
Chester County to control adult mosquito populations

Map of spray area - http://www.chesco.org/health/lib/health/maps/treatmentarea34.html

WEST CHESTER, PA– Due to the high number of mosquitoes in the above referenced areas caused by flooding from recent storms, the Chester County Health Department will conduct a mosquito control treatment between 7:30 PM and 10:00 PM on the evening of Wednesday, September 21, 2011 (rain date September 22nd) in the following locations:

EastVincent Township: Old Schuylkill Road and Route 724 between Reitnour Road and Old Schulkill Road and Route 724 intersection Click here for a map of the spray area.

Phoenixville Borough: Black Rock Preserve

The treatment will be administered with truck-mounted equipment. The equipment dispenses Permanone RTU, a permethrin insecticide product, at a rate of 1.5 ounces per acre. It is recommended that residents stay indoors and close windows during treatment for approximately one hour after spraying is complete.

Certain mosquito species carry the West Nile virus which, when transmitted to people, can cause West Nile encephalitis, an infection that can result in an inflammation of the brain. All residents in areas where virus activity has been identified are at risk of getting West Nile encephalitis.

Margaret Rivello, County Health Director, warns that “Although spraying is conducted to help reduce the mosquito populations, treatments cannot totally eliminate mosquitoes. Residents should take precautions to help reduce contact with mosquitoes and breeding areas.”

The Health Department recommends the following precautions to help eliminate mosquito-breeding areas:

• Dispose of open containers on your property that may collect water, such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, etc.

• Keep your property clear of old tires or avoid areas where they may be stored.

• Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers so that water will not collect.

• Clean roof gutters, particularly if leaves from surrounding trees have a tendency to plug drains.

• Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use.

• Turn over wheelbarrows and don’t let water stagnate in birdbaths.

• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish.

• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools when not in use. A swimming pool left untended for a month can produce enough mosquitoes to result in neighborhood-wide complaints. Mosquitoes may even breed in the water that collects on pool covers.

• For stagnant pools of water, homeowners can buy BTI products at lawn and garden supply stores. This naturally occurring bacterial product kills mosquito larvae but is safe for people, pets, aquatic life and plants.

In addition, take these simple precautions to prevent mosquito bites:

• Make sure screens fit tightly over doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out of homes.

• Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly when mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, or in areas known for having large numbers of mosquitoes.

• When possible, reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk during the summer.

• Use insect repellants. An effective repellant will contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always be sure to follow the manufacturer label directions. Consult with a pediatrician or family physician if you have questions about the use of repellant on children, as repellant is not recommended for children under the age of two months.

For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the Health Department’s website or call 610-344-6752.

#34#

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Health Department to Distribute Potassium Iodide Tablets

Received via email.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2011
News Release #19
For more information call 610-344-6252


Health Department to Distribute Potassium Iodide Tablets


West Chester, PA – The Chester County Health Department will be offering potassium iodide (KI) tablets to people who live or work within a 10-mile radius of the Limerick Nuclear Generating Station. (Visit the Health Department website for a map of the 10-mile radius.) The tablets will be distributed on Thursday, August 11, from 2 pm – 7 pm at the Kimberton Fire Company in Phoenixville, PA. The fire company is located at the intersection of Pike Springs Road and Firehouse Lane. The tablets are provided at no cost to residents.

This event is for:

residents who have KI tablets that exceed their expiration date.
new residents who have recently moved near the nuclear power facility.
those who work or attend school within a 10-mile radius.


Individuals will be able to pick up tablets for their family members and those who are unable to pick them up on their own.

In the unlikely event of a radiological emergency, potassium iodide helps protect the thyroid against the harmful effects of radioactive iodine. Residents should only take potassium iodide tablets upon the instructions of Pennsylvania State Health Officials and the Governor.

For Chester County residents who need KI tablets and cannot attend this distribution, tablets are available at the Chester County Health Department. For more information, please call 610-344-6252 or visit us online at www.chesco.org/health.