This we can use, it is a general news release.  Sam

Sent: Monday, March 22, 2004
Subject: Media Briefings In Dc & Via Teleconference This Wed. Expose Exxon's Cover Up Of Long Term Harm done by Exxon Valdez Oil Spill on the 15th Anniversary of the Spill

For Immediate Release: Contact: Celia Alario, 310.721.6517
March 22, 2004

Media Briefings In Dc & Via Teleconference Expose Exxon's Cover Up Of Long-Term Harm To Wildlife, Communities, And Workers From The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill

SOUND TRUTHS AND EXXON MYTHS-ALASKANS CONVERGE ON DC WITH DRAMATIC NEW FINDINGS, DEMAND CONGRESSIONAL ACTION FOR REGULATORY REFORM

What: Media Breakfast Briefing in DC and Teleconference for Journalists Around the World-Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Alaska Forum for Environmental Responsibility and Eyak Preservation Council will host a media briefing to present new information about the long-term environmental, community, worker health, and economic effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill.  The groups will provide fresh Alaska salmon, in addition to a continental breakfast.

When/Where: Media Briefing:  Wednesday March 24th-8:30AM Eastern Time at the National Press Club, 529 14th Street NW, 13th Floor, Washington D.C.-Zenger Room

Media Tele-Conference Call:  Wednesday, March 24th-1:00PM Eastern/10:00AM Pacific US/Canada Dial-In #: (877) 575-3310 * Int'l/Local Dial-In #: (706) 679-3789

Who: Sponsored by the Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Alaska Forum for Environmental Responsibility and Eyak Preservation Council, the briefing will feature: fishermen and community representatives who have been economically devastated by the spill, scientists, oil industry experts and chemically-injured workers.

Why: The Exxon Valdez was the largest and most devastating oil spill in U.S. history, with long-term damages that will linger for decades. Exxon has failed to meet its promise of cleanup and restoration or to settle with over 30,000 residents. From studies following the Exxon Valdez spill, scientists have found that oil at least 1000 times more toxic than previously thought.

New information reveals that hundreds if not thousands of oil spill cleanup workers are suffering debilitating illnesses as a result of their exposure to highly toxic oil and solvent mixtures. Presenters will present evidence that the unanticipated long-term impacts of the oil spill dictate that Exxon pay the additional $100 million "Re-opener for Unknown Injury," as required by the 1991 legal settlement, and call on Congress to respond with more stringent policies.

Visuals: Large format photos; jars of oiled rocks taken from the beaches of Prince William Sound in last week; B-roll video available.

Interviews available at any time with fishermen, community representatives, scientists, oil industry experts, advocates, Alaska Natives, chemically-injured workers and Alaska high schools students.

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Sound Truths and Exxon Myths--
The 15 Year Dark Anniversary of the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill and Beyond Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Alaska Forum for Environmental Responsibility, Eyak Preservation Council, Alaska Wilderness League, Alaska Coalition, Cook Inlet Keeper, Gwich'in Steering Committee

valdezlink.com/pages/doctorsneed-medicalbreak-thru_.htm