Illinois Section AWWA Presents:
INTRODUCTION TO WATER CONSERVATION WEBINAR
Tuesday, November 10, 2009 - Your Computer
Also Missouri Section AWWA Approved!
REGISTRATION & HOURS
This training webinar will begin at 12:00pm and conclude by 1:00pm. Earn up to 1 PDH or RTC hour. After registration, attendee will be furnished with all materials and links needed to participate in the webinar.
COST
$10.00 for AWWA members
$20.00 for non AWWA members
SPEAKER
Catherine Hurley, MWH Americas, Inc.
Catherine Hurley is a Senior Civil Engineer with MWH located in Chicago, IL and has over five years of experience in the water/wastewater industry. She graduated from the University of Dayton with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering in 2003 and is a registered professional engineer in Illinois. Her technical experience includes water, wastewater and water resources projects on both the planning and design side.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Lisa Jordan, Education Coordinator
Phone: 866-521-3595 ext. 2
Email: lisa@isawwa.org
Fax: 866-521-3591
Website: www.isawwa.org
Showing posts with label drinking water. Show all posts
Showing posts with label drinking water. Show all posts
Monday, November 9, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Plumbing Basics - Seminar - Joliet - Oct 6
Illinois Section AWWA Presents:
PLUMBING BASICS
Tuesday, October 6, 2009 - Joliet, IL
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude at 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Strand Engineering Office, 1170 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431
Ph: 815-744-4200
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members $60.00 for non AWWA members $70.00 for on-site registration
SPEAKER
Tom Tapella, Utilities, Inc. Tom is a Licensed Journeyman Plumber in Illinois and Licensed Plumbing Contractor in Indiana having worked as a plumber since 1993. Tom has performed work as a Plumber, Lead Plumber, Working Foreman and Plumbing Business Owner. In 2007 Tom left the plumbing field to become a Construction Inspector for Utilities Inc. and currently holds the position of Midwest Regional Manager.
AGENDA
Basic Plumbing Systems • Water Systems: Common materials used, Soldering pipe and valves, Sizing water piping and meters • Drain, Waste and Vent Systems: Common materials used, Sizing DWV piping, Gravity drains • Pumps: Sumps, Ejectors, Lift Stations • Illegal Cross Connections • Plumbing Diagnostics: Low Water Pressure, Slow Drains, High Water Consumption. Fixture Values
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION: To register - contact Lisa via phone, 866-521-3595 ext. 2
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
NIMS 100 & 700 FREE TRAINING
Illinois Section AWWA Presents:
NIMS 100 & 700 FREE TRAINING
Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - Elgin, IL
To register call 866-521-3595 ext 2.
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude by 4:00pm. Earn up to 6 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Heritage Ballroom at the Centre of Elgin
West Conference Room, 100 Symphony Way, Elgin, IL 60120
Ph: 847-531-7000
COST
This class is offered FREE of charge
CAPACITY IS LIMITED - REGISTRATION CLOSES 1 WEEK PRIOR
NO ONSITE REGISTRATION
SPEAKER
Greg Benson, Battalion chief with the Elgin Fire Department
AGENDA
• Introductions and Course Expectations
• ICS Basics
• Incident Typing, Expanding Incidents, Communications, Briefings, Resource Typing and Transfer of Command
• ICS Q&A
• IS-100 Exam for FEMA certification
• National Incident Management System (NIMS) Introduction
• NIMS Preparedness, Communication. Information Management and Resource Management
• NIMS Command and Management, and Ongoing Management & Maintenance
• NIMS Q&A
• IS-700 Exam for FEMA certification
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION:
Visit www.isawwa.org or contact Lisa via phone, 866-521-3595 ext. 2 or email, lisa@isawwa.org
NIMS 100 & 700 FREE TRAINING
Wednesday, October 14, 2009 - Elgin, IL
To register call 866-521-3595 ext 2.
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude by 4:00pm. Earn up to 6 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Heritage Ballroom at the Centre of Elgin
West Conference Room, 100 Symphony Way, Elgin, IL 60120
Ph: 847-531-7000
COST
This class is offered FREE of charge
CAPACITY IS LIMITED - REGISTRATION CLOSES 1 WEEK PRIOR
NO ONSITE REGISTRATION
SPEAKER
Greg Benson, Battalion chief with the Elgin Fire Department
AGENDA
• Introductions and Course Expectations
• ICS Basics
• Incident Typing, Expanding Incidents, Communications, Briefings, Resource Typing and Transfer of Command
• ICS Q&A
• IS-100 Exam for FEMA certification
• National Incident Management System (NIMS) Introduction
• NIMS Preparedness, Communication. Information Management and Resource Management
• NIMS Command and Management, and Ongoing Management & Maintenance
• NIMS Q&A
• IS-700 Exam for FEMA certification
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION:
Visit www.isawwa.org or contact Lisa via phone, 866-521-3595 ext. 2 or email, lisa@isawwa.org
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Structural Design of Tanks Using AWWA D100-05
Illinois Section AWWA Presents:
Structural Design of Tanks Using AWWA D100-05
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 - Countryside, IL
Tuesday, December 1, 2009 - Bloomington, IL
To register call 866-521-3595 ext 2 - Lisa.
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude by 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
DATES & LOCATIONS
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Park Place Countryside
6240 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Doubletree Hotel and Conference Center
10 Brickyard Drive
Bloomington, IL 61701
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members
$60.00 for non AWWA members
$70.00 on-site registration
$55.00 Optional D100 Standard
AGENDA
This seminar is intended for engineers and other highly technical individuals interested in learning more about detailed design of water storage tanks in accordance with AWWA D100-05. The seminar will include example structural calculations and structural theory, and a discussion of the behavior of tank shells and roofs.
- Overview of Changes to D100-05
- Design Loads Requirements of AWWA D100-05: Wind, Snow, Seismic
- Membrane Stress: Flat bottom Tank example, Elevated Tank example
- Ringwall Foundation Design: Flat Bottom Tank Example
- Roof Design: Self supporting Dome Example, Umbrella Roof Example
- Seismic Design: Flat Bottom Tank Example, Elevated Pedestal Tank Example
- Anchor Bolt Chair: Design Example
SPEAKER
Stephen W. Meier, P.E., S.E., Tank Industry Consultants
Structural Design of Tanks Using AWWA D100-05
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 - Countryside, IL
Tuesday, December 1, 2009 - Bloomington, IL
To register call 866-521-3595 ext 2 - Lisa.
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude by 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
DATES & LOCATIONS
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Park Place Countryside
6240 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Doubletree Hotel and Conference Center
10 Brickyard Drive
Bloomington, IL 61701
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members
$60.00 for non AWWA members
$70.00 on-site registration
$55.00 Optional D100 Standard
AGENDA
This seminar is intended for engineers and other highly technical individuals interested in learning more about detailed design of water storage tanks in accordance with AWWA D100-05. The seminar will include example structural calculations and structural theory, and a discussion of the behavior of tank shells and roofs.
- Overview of Changes to D100-05
- Design Loads Requirements of AWWA D100-05: Wind, Snow, Seismic
- Membrane Stress: Flat bottom Tank example, Elevated Tank example
- Ringwall Foundation Design: Flat Bottom Tank Example
- Roof Design: Self supporting Dome Example, Umbrella Roof Example
- Seismic Design: Flat Bottom Tank Example, Elevated Pedestal Tank Example
- Anchor Bolt Chair: Design Example
SPEAKER
Stephen W. Meier, P.E., S.E., Tank Industry Consultants
SECURITY WATER SECTOR ROADMAP TRAINING - Free Training
ISAWWA Information Management & Technology Committee & Water Sector Coordinating Council Presents:
SECURITY WATER SECTOR ROADMAP TRAINING
Thursday, October 15, 2009 – Countryside, IL
To register - call 866-521-3595 extension 2 - Lisa
FEATURING Mark Zanotti, VP of Engineering and CTO of Lofty Perch, Inc. and Jonathan Gray, in the Control System Security Program at Idaho National Laboratory
EXHIBITOR TABLE TOPS AVAILABLE - limited to the first 20
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 7:30am. The training will start at 8:00am and will conclude at 5:00pm. Earn up to 8.5 renewal training credit hours or professional development hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Park Place Countryside
Operator Engineers Local 150 Hall
6200 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
COST
This class is offered FREE of charge – CAPACITY IS LIMITED
EXHIBITOR TABLES AVAILABLE!
$100.00 for Exhibitor Table Top – LIMITED TO FIRST 20
$25.00 for Additional Exhibitor Personnel
AGENDA
The urgent need to mitigate risks and threats to Industrial Control Systems (ICS) has led the water sector to collaborate with government leaders on an integrated security strategy. A critical component of this effort is equipping utility personnel with the requisite ability to identify, defend against, and reduce the risk from cyber attack.
The Water Sector Coordinating Council (WSCC) is hosting a series of workshops designed specifically to improve the knowledge and skills of U.S.-based water sector utility employees who are responsible for control system security. The Department of Homeland Security’s Control Systems Security Program will present the workshop training and discuss security products that are available for use by water sector asset owners and operators. These one-day events will include:
• A briefing on WSCC’s Roadmap to Secure Control Systems in the Water Sector
• An overview of cyber risks and threats to utility-based ICS
• Concrete and easy to understand mitigation strategies for securing ICS
• Demonstration and instruction on the Department of Homeland Security’s mitigation and self assessment tools
The Water Sector Coordinating Council is comprised of water and wastewater utilities and other associations representing the water sector. WSCC serves as a policy, strategy, and coordination mechanism for advising U.S. EPA and the Department of Homeland Security. WERF is a founding member association.
SECURITY WATER SECTOR ROADMAP TRAINING
Thursday, October 15, 2009 – Countryside, IL
To register - call 866-521-3595 extension 2 - Lisa
FEATURING Mark Zanotti, VP of Engineering and CTO of Lofty Perch, Inc. and Jonathan Gray, in the Control System Security Program at Idaho National Laboratory
EXHIBITOR TABLE TOPS AVAILABLE - limited to the first 20
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 7:30am. The training will start at 8:00am and will conclude at 5:00pm. Earn up to 8.5 renewal training credit hours or professional development hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Park Place Countryside
Operator Engineers Local 150 Hall
6200 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
COST
This class is offered FREE of charge – CAPACITY IS LIMITED
EXHIBITOR TABLES AVAILABLE!
$100.00 for Exhibitor Table Top – LIMITED TO FIRST 20
$25.00 for Additional Exhibitor Personnel
AGENDA
The urgent need to mitigate risks and threats to Industrial Control Systems (ICS) has led the water sector to collaborate with government leaders on an integrated security strategy. A critical component of this effort is equipping utility personnel with the requisite ability to identify, defend against, and reduce the risk from cyber attack.
The Water Sector Coordinating Council (WSCC) is hosting a series of workshops designed specifically to improve the knowledge and skills of U.S.-based water sector utility employees who are responsible for control system security. The Department of Homeland Security’s Control Systems Security Program will present the workshop training and discuss security products that are available for use by water sector asset owners and operators. These one-day events will include:
• A briefing on WSCC’s Roadmap to Secure Control Systems in the Water Sector
• An overview of cyber risks and threats to utility-based ICS
• Concrete and easy to understand mitigation strategies for securing ICS
• Demonstration and instruction on the Department of Homeland Security’s mitigation and self assessment tools
The Water Sector Coordinating Council is comprised of water and wastewater utilities and other associations representing the water sector. WSCC serves as a policy, strategy, and coordination mechanism for advising U.S. EPA and the Department of Homeland Security. WERF is a founding member association.
Monday, September 14, 2009
ISAWWA letter to IDPH - Pandemic Response
Illinois Section AWWA
545 S. Randall Road
St. Charles, Il 60174
September 3, 2009
Dr. Damon T. Arnold, Director
Illinois Department of Public Health
535 West Jefferson Street
Springfield, Illinois 62761
Dear Dr. Arnold,
As you know, this nation is taking important steps to prepare for the possibility of a pandemic flu outbreak. History teaches us that pandemics can be characterized by rapid worldwide spread, overloaded health care systems, inadequate medical supplies, and economic and social disruption.
Pandemics are also unpredictable. Historically, the Federal government, as well as Illinois, have made a number of assumptions that need to be taken into account to facilitate the planning efforts of key entities and their infrastructures.
Drinking water and wastewater utilities are such a critical sector. Their role in American communities and their continued operation during a pandemic must be assured. The water sector in Illinois is concerned that critical water utility operational personnel have not been adequately considered in recent guidelines for pandemic response. It is important to note that clean water is the foundation of public health. As such, continuous operation of water and wastewater facilities is fundamental to restoring health to a community during any phase of a pandemic or disaster. Without adequate quantity and quality of water, a community cannot recover. Aside from the multiple hospitals and healthcare providers in the various communities throughout the state, all critical infrastructure and first-line responders rely on clean water as the foundation of public health. In this sense, the water sector provides a lifeline to support and sustain both emergency and everyday functions. It is sometimes easy to forget the importance of the service that the water sector provides, because during normal day-to-day operations, these services go on seamlessly. This may not be the case during a full-scale pandemic, without your assistance in providing us with the necessary vaccines to enable our most critical workforce to perform their essential functions.
While we understand that certain guidelines may be handed down from the federal level for distribution of the initial wave of H1N1 vaccines, we look to our public health
officials in the State of Illinois to make the best decision, as it relates to matters of our state. We strongly feel that critical operational personnel within the water utility sector should be recognized as first responders in dealing with public health issues that affect the entire state or region, as they are under federal law. Specifically:
• Homeland Security Presidential Directive 8 – National Preparedness, defines “first responder” as those individuals who, in the early stages of an incident, are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, evidence, and environment, including emergency response providers as defined in section 2 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 101), as well as emergency management, public health, clinical care, public works, and other skilled support personnel (such as equipment operators) that provide immediate support services during prevention, response, and recovery operations.
• 6 U.S.C. 101 – The term “emergency response providers” includes Federal, State, and local governmental and nongovernmental emergency public safety, fire, law enforcement, emergency response, emergency medical (including hospital emergency facilities), and related personnel, agencies, and authorities.
We believe that this should logically classify water sector first responders (related to critical infrastructure – emergency services sector personnel) as in the first tier of vaccination target groups.
It is our understanding that while federal guidelines may exist, it is ultimately the responsibility of Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to decide on any final prioritization and allocation of vaccines. We understand and acknowledge the limitations on the supply of vaccine, given the reported difficulty in its manufacture. However, we would like to further discuss this with IDPH officials and continually stress that the water sector is every bit as critical to the continued operation of our communities as police, fire, and other emergency personnel.
We look forward to an opportunity to meet or talk with you about this at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Illinois Section of American Water Works Association
Gerald W. Bever, Chair
Water Utility Council
cc: Terry McGhee, ISAWWA Chair
Laurie Dougherty, ISAWWA Executive Director
545 S. Randall Road
St. Charles, Il 60174
September 3, 2009
Dr. Damon T. Arnold, Director
Illinois Department of Public Health
535 West Jefferson Street
Springfield, Illinois 62761
Dear Dr. Arnold,
As you know, this nation is taking important steps to prepare for the possibility of a pandemic flu outbreak. History teaches us that pandemics can be characterized by rapid worldwide spread, overloaded health care systems, inadequate medical supplies, and economic and social disruption.
Pandemics are also unpredictable. Historically, the Federal government, as well as Illinois, have made a number of assumptions that need to be taken into account to facilitate the planning efforts of key entities and their infrastructures.
Drinking water and wastewater utilities are such a critical sector. Their role in American communities and their continued operation during a pandemic must be assured. The water sector in Illinois is concerned that critical water utility operational personnel have not been adequately considered in recent guidelines for pandemic response. It is important to note that clean water is the foundation of public health. As such, continuous operation of water and wastewater facilities is fundamental to restoring health to a community during any phase of a pandemic or disaster. Without adequate quantity and quality of water, a community cannot recover. Aside from the multiple hospitals and healthcare providers in the various communities throughout the state, all critical infrastructure and first-line responders rely on clean water as the foundation of public health. In this sense, the water sector provides a lifeline to support and sustain both emergency and everyday functions. It is sometimes easy to forget the importance of the service that the water sector provides, because during normal day-to-day operations, these services go on seamlessly. This may not be the case during a full-scale pandemic, without your assistance in providing us with the necessary vaccines to enable our most critical workforce to perform their essential functions.
While we understand that certain guidelines may be handed down from the federal level for distribution of the initial wave of H1N1 vaccines, we look to our public health
officials in the State of Illinois to make the best decision, as it relates to matters of our state. We strongly feel that critical operational personnel within the water utility sector should be recognized as first responders in dealing with public health issues that affect the entire state or region, as they are under federal law. Specifically:
• Homeland Security Presidential Directive 8 – National Preparedness, defines “first responder” as those individuals who, in the early stages of an incident, are responsible for the protection and preservation of life, property, evidence, and environment, including emergency response providers as defined in section 2 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 101), as well as emergency management, public health, clinical care, public works, and other skilled support personnel (such as equipment operators) that provide immediate support services during prevention, response, and recovery operations.
• 6 U.S.C. 101 – The term “emergency response providers” includes Federal, State, and local governmental and nongovernmental emergency public safety, fire, law enforcement, emergency response, emergency medical (including hospital emergency facilities), and related personnel, agencies, and authorities.
We believe that this should logically classify water sector first responders (related to critical infrastructure – emergency services sector personnel) as in the first tier of vaccination target groups.
It is our understanding that while federal guidelines may exist, it is ultimately the responsibility of Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to decide on any final prioritization and allocation of vaccines. We understand and acknowledge the limitations on the supply of vaccine, given the reported difficulty in its manufacture. However, we would like to further discuss this with IDPH officials and continually stress that the water sector is every bit as critical to the continued operation of our communities as police, fire, and other emergency personnel.
We look forward to an opportunity to meet or talk with you about this at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Illinois Section of American Water Works Association
Gerald W. Bever, Chair
Water Utility Council
cc: Terry McGhee, ISAWWA Chair
Laurie Dougherty, ISAWWA Executive Director
Saturday, September 5, 2009
What is Your Chlorine Status?
A utility member sent me an email as follows, "When I placed an order for chlorine this week, my supplier informed me that chlorine supplies are tight & that prices are rising.
The reason given is that the caustic market has crashed due to the slow economy & lack of demand by manufacturers. Because of this, caustic manufactures have reduced production. Since chlorine is a by-product of caustic manufacture - chlorine production is also reduced. I was told that they will be able to keep delivering chlorine but that deliveries will be erratic depending on rail car availability.
This was a total surprise. I've seen nothing on any of the water industry internet news services.
You may want to pass this on to members. It looks like we'll need to bump up our chlorine budget for 2010."
Laurie Dougherty
Illinois Section AWWA Executive Director
The reason given is that the caustic market has crashed due to the slow economy & lack of demand by manufacturers. Because of this, caustic manufactures have reduced production. Since chlorine is a by-product of caustic manufacture - chlorine production is also reduced. I was told that they will be able to keep delivering chlorine but that deliveries will be erratic depending on rail car availability.
This was a total surprise. I've seen nothing on any of the water industry internet news services.
You may want to pass this on to members. It looks like we'll need to bump up our chlorine budget for 2010."
Laurie Dougherty
Illinois Section AWWA Executive Director
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Illinois Regulatory Update - Drinking Water Regulations
ANNUAL DRINKING WATER REGULATORY UPDATE
Thursday, September 17, 2009
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude by 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included. To register call 866-521-3595 - extension 2 - Sandi.
DATE
Thursday, September 17, 2009
LOCATION
Park Place Countryside
Operator Engineers Local 150 Hall
6200 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members
$60.00 for non AWWA members
$70.00 on-site registration
AGENDA
This seminar will cover current and upcoming regulations. In addition to reviewing the rules themselves, we will also explore operational strategies that can be employed to meet these regulations. A discussion forum will wrap up the day allowing you time to ask your specific questions. Illinois EPA representatives may be available to answer questions.
Registration - begins at 8:30am
9:00 am – Section 31 Enforcement - M. Reed
9:30 am – Regulatory Update from a Technical Perspective - J. Kuhn
10:30 am - Groundwater Rule - A. Rhodes
11:00 am – Navigating IEPA’s Website & Drinking Water Watch - M. Reed
12 noon – Lunch
1:00 pm – Lead & Copper Rule - A. Rhodes
1:30 pm – Compliance Statistics & Monitoring Issues - M. Reed
2:15 pm – Wrap Up
SPEAKERS
Jerry Kuhn, Permit Section Manager, IEPA, Bureau of Water, Division of Public Water Supplies
Mary Reed, Compliance Officer, IEPA, Bureau of Water, Drinking Water Compliance Unit
Andrea Rhodes, Compliance Officer, IEPA, Bureau of Water, Drinking Water Compliance Unit
Thursday, September 17, 2009
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training will start at 9:00am and will conclude by 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included. To register call 866-521-3595 - extension 2 - Sandi.
DATE
Thursday, September 17, 2009
LOCATION
Park Place Countryside
Operator Engineers Local 150 Hall
6200 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members
$60.00 for non AWWA members
$70.00 on-site registration
AGENDA
This seminar will cover current and upcoming regulations. In addition to reviewing the rules themselves, we will also explore operational strategies that can be employed to meet these regulations. A discussion forum will wrap up the day allowing you time to ask your specific questions. Illinois EPA representatives may be available to answer questions.
Registration - begins at 8:30am
9:00 am – Section 31 Enforcement - M. Reed
9:30 am – Regulatory Update from a Technical Perspective - J. Kuhn
10:30 am - Groundwater Rule - A. Rhodes
11:00 am – Navigating IEPA’s Website & Drinking Water Watch - M. Reed
12 noon – Lunch
1:00 pm – Lead & Copper Rule - A. Rhodes
1:30 pm – Compliance Statistics & Monitoring Issues - M. Reed
2:15 pm – Wrap Up
SPEAKERS
Jerry Kuhn, Permit Section Manager, IEPA, Bureau of Water, Division of Public Water Supplies
Mary Reed, Compliance Officer, IEPA, Bureau of Water, Drinking Water Compliance Unit
Andrea Rhodes, Compliance Officer, IEPA, Bureau of Water, Drinking Water Compliance Unit
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet for Water Sector and ISAWWA Seminar
Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet for the Water Sector EPA has published a “Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet for the Water Sector.” Pandemic flu could affect the capability of water system operators to operate and maintain their systems adequately due to increased absenteeism at their systems and at other interdependent sectors that provide essential materials and supplies. The flu fact sheet provides information to assist the water sector in integrating pandemic planning into existing business continuity and emergency response plans and reducing the risk to public health that would be caused by disruption in operation of water systems. In addition to background information on pandemic flu, its potential impacts, and possible interventions, the fact sheet provides references to tools and guidance materials offered by EPA and other organizations. The fact sheet is available at: http://cfpub.epa.gov/safewater/watersecurity/pandemicflu.cfm
Join the Illinois Section AWWA at the following seminar - you can still register online.
PANDEMIC AWARENESS & PLANNING FOR WATER UTILITIES
Tuesday, September 8, 2009 - Countryside, IL
http://tinyurl.com/ldhcyt
What if your employees refuse to report to work because of fear of catching panflu? How will you and your utility or company react ? This seminar is appropriate for both utilities and private industry. Be sure and attend so that you can prepare for this fall season and the H1N1 virus .
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training is 9:00am – 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Park Place Countryside
6240 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members
$60.00 for non AWWA members
$70.00 for on-site registration
SPEAKERS
John Smith, City of Decatur
Richard Reb, CRT, Roche Laboratories
AGENDA
This program is designed to provide an in-depth look at pandemic influenza and provide information and training on what each individual, community, and public or private organization can do to prepare. Participants will go through the Pandemic Influenza Ambassador Program developed in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Faith-Based Emergency Preparedness Initiative.
Presentation topic s will include: A brief history of pandemics including H5N1 “bird flu” and H1N1 “Swine Flu”; The definition of a pandemic and the differences between pandemic and seasonal flu; The past and potential future impact of a pandemic on business and the economy; The potential impact of a pandemic on the health system and community; The role of the individual, the government, healthcare, and private sectors; Planning and preparation steps for individuals at home and in the workplace; Pandemic Countermeasures: the role of hygiene and medical interventions; Planning resources; Why a flu pandemic should concern everyone; How flu germs spread - and how you can avoid getting or spreading them; Planning and preparation steps you can take
You probably have a disaster plan for your water utility, but a pandemic is a different kind of disaster. Now is the time to do additional planning so you are ready if this kind of disaster should strike.
Here are some scenario s to consider: How will your utility operate if you are not there due to sickness or quarantine? What about other key members of your staff? What will you do if members of your family are extremely sick? What about staff member’s families? What will you do if some staff members refuse to report to work even though they are not sick? Are you able to operate some of your utility remotely? What if it becomes difficult to receive chemical deliveries on time due to truck driver shortages? What if a crucial piece of equipment needs immediate maintenance? Have you developed a list of electrical, mechanical, and other vendors that will respond to an emergency? What if that vendor has a large number of employees out due to sickness?
These are examples of pandemic planning that you must do before this kind of disaster becomes a reality.
Join the Illinois Section AWWA at the following seminar - you can still register online.
PANDEMIC AWARENESS & PLANNING FOR WATER UTILITIES
Tuesday, September 8, 2009 - Countryside, IL
http://tinyurl.com/ldhcyt
What if your employees refuse to report to work because of fear of catching panflu? How will you and your utility or company react ? This seminar is appropriate for both utilities and private industry. Be sure and attend so that you can prepare for this fall season and the H1N1 virus .
REGISTRATION & HOURS
Registration begins at 8:30am. The training is 9:00am – 3:00pm. Earn up to 5 PDHs or RTC hours. Continental breakfast and lunch will be included.
LOCATION
Park Place Countryside
6240 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
COST
$40.00 for AWWA members
$60.00 for non AWWA members
$70.00 for on-site registration
SPEAKERS
John Smith, City of Decatur
Richard Reb, CRT, Roche Laboratories
AGENDA
This program is designed to provide an in-depth look at pandemic influenza and provide information and training on what each individual, community, and public or private organization can do to prepare. Participants will go through the Pandemic Influenza Ambassador Program developed in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Faith-Based Emergency Preparedness Initiative.
Presentation topic s will include: A brief history of pandemics including H5N1 “bird flu” and H1N1 “Swine Flu”; The definition of a pandemic and the differences between pandemic and seasonal flu; The past and potential future impact of a pandemic on business and the economy; The potential impact of a pandemic on the health system and community; The role of the individual, the government, healthcare, and private sectors; Planning and preparation steps for individuals at home and in the workplace; Pandemic Countermeasures: the role of hygiene and medical interventions; Planning resources; Why a flu pandemic should concern everyone; How flu germs spread - and how you can avoid getting or spreading them; Planning and preparation steps you can take
You probably have a disaster plan for your water utility, but a pandemic is a different kind of disaster. Now is the time to do additional planning so you are ready if this kind of disaster should strike.
Here are some scenario s to consider: How will your utility operate if you are not there due to sickness or quarantine? What about other key members of your staff? What will you do if members of your family are extremely sick? What about staff member’s families? What will you do if some staff members refuse to report to work even though they are not sick? Are you able to operate some of your utility remotely? What if it becomes difficult to receive chemical deliveries on time due to truck driver shortages? What if a crucial piece of equipment needs immediate maintenance? Have you developed a list of electrical, mechanical, and other vendors that will respond to an emergency? What if that vendor has a large number of employees out due to sickness?
These are examples of pandemic planning that you must do before this kind of disaster becomes a reality.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Portable drinking water trailer for AWWA Members
As part of the ongoing effort to promote the high quality, safety and savings that tap water delivers, the Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association commissioned the fabrication of a water drinking fountain for use as a public educational display. The trailer comes equipped with five drinking fountains, a jug/bottle filler and handwashing faucets. Useful information about tap water, leak prevention and water quality are conveniently placed around each fixture. The trailer is designed to easily connect to a water spigot or tap of a local water supply to provide fresh, safe drinking water to festival or event goers. The trailer debuted at the 2009 spring conference of ISAWWA in Springfield and has been used at events to promote World Water Day in Chicago, at the Blues Fest and the 4th of July in Mount Prospect. The trailer has been well received by event participants and the general public every time it has been used. To use the trailer for your Illinois event, contact your local water provider or call the Illinois Section AWWA at 866-521-3595.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Link to full copy of Public Act 96-603
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/96/PDF/096-0603.pdf
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The Governor approved SB 54 today.
The Governor approved SB 54 today.
Here is a link to it:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=54&GAID=10&GA=96&DocTypeID=SB&LegID=40292&SessionID=76
Here is the amendment that became the bill:
Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act, the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, the Secretary of State Act, the Secretary of State Merit Employment Code, the Comptroller Merit Employment Code, the State Treasurer Employment Code, the Personnel Code, the Children and Family Services Act, the Department of Human Services Act, the Governor's Office of Management and Budget Act, the General Assembly Compensation Act, the Lobbyist Registration Act, the State Prompt Payment Act, the Illinois Public Aid Code, and the Whistleblower Act. Makes changes with respect to, without limitation: statements of economic interests; prohibited sources; promise of State employment benefits; revolving door provisions; whistleblower provisions; jurisdiction of ethics commissions; activities prohibited for Executive Ethics Commission members; activities prohibited for and compensation of Executive Inspectors General; du ties of Inspectors General; anonymous allegations of ethics violations; investigations of ethics violations by the Attorney General and Special Inspectors General; Inspector General investigation reports, complaint procedures, and decision review; penalties for and injunctive relief against ethics violations; State agency inspectors general; budgets of the Executive Ethics Commission and Executive Inspectors General; expenditures to defray a legislator's cost of performing governmental and public service functions; the registration and ethics training of and the reporting by lobbyists and lobbying entities; enforcement of lobbying provisions; complaints of and penalties for lobbying violations; and political fundraising in Sangamon County. Effective immediately in part and January 1, 2010, in part.
Here is a link to it:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=54&GAID=10&GA=96&DocTypeID=SB&LegID=40292&SessionID=76
Here is the amendment that became the bill:
Deletes everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act, the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, the Secretary of State Act, the Secretary of State Merit Employment Code, the Comptroller Merit Employment Code, the State Treasurer Employment Code, the Personnel Code, the Children and Family Services Act, the Department of Human Services Act, the Governor's Office of Management and Budget Act, the General Assembly Compensation Act, the Lobbyist Registration Act, the State Prompt Payment Act, the Illinois Public Aid Code, and the Whistleblower Act. Makes changes with respect to, without limitation: statements of economic interests; prohibited sources; promise of State employment benefits; revolving door provisions; whistleblower provisions; jurisdiction of ethics commissions; activities prohibited for Executive Ethics Commission members; activities prohibited for and compensation of Executive Inspectors General; du ties of Inspectors General; anonymous allegations of ethics violations; investigations of ethics violations by the Attorney General and Special Inspectors General; Inspector General investigation reports, complaint procedures, and decision review; penalties for and injunctive relief against ethics violations; State agency inspectors general; budgets of the Executive Ethics Commission and Executive Inspectors General; expenditures to defray a legislator's cost of performing governmental and public service functions; the registration and ethics training of and the reporting by lobbyists and lobbying entities; enforcement of lobbying provisions; complaints of and penalties for lobbying violations; and political fundraising in Sangamon County. Effective immediately in part and January 1, 2010, in part.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Source Water Workshop
Source Water Workshop
Thursday, August 27, 2009 – Crystal Lake, IL
http://tinyurl.com/mkvjan
AGENDA
Illinois EPA began its Source Water Assessment Program in 1997 in response to amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act. These amendments require States to assess all sources of public drinking water. Assessments consist of the delineation of a Source Water Protection Area for each source of drinking water, an inventory of potential sources of contamination within the area, a determination of the source’s susceptibility to contamination and a plan to make the assessments available to the public. Illinois was one of the first States to have an approved Source Water Assessment Program.
As part of the Source Water Protection Program, Illinois EPA has developed a webbased interactive GIS mapserver. This site is based on ESRI’s ArcIMS software and will allow the user to access all the databases and coverages used in the Source Water Assessments, as well as additional information such as pumpage data, land use data, and aerial photos. The website is secure and requires the user to complete and submit a Confidentiality Agreement to gain access.
Since its inception the SWAP mapserver has expanded to include data layers for Groundwater Ordinances, water quality information from the Illinois State Water Survey and more. This information is used by Illinois EPA personnel to conduct site evaluations and assessments for several different programs including the Leaking Underground Storage Tank program, Contaminant Evaluation Group, Site Remediation Referral Group and the Permit Sections of both the Bureau of Land and Bureau of Water. Training will consist of “hands-on” instruction of how to perform well surveys, search for potential sources of contamination and an overview of data available on the site.
SPEAKERS
Wade Boring, Illinois EPA
Wade has been an employee of Illinois EPA since 1985 and Manager of the Geographic Analysis Unit in the Groundwater Section of the Division of Public Water Supplies since 2000. Prior to Illinois EPA he spent 3 years working in the oilfields of Texas and offshore Louisiana. He is a graduate of Illinois State University with a degree in Geology and is a Licensed Professional Geologist in the State of Illinois. Wade has been working with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) since 1989 and has watched it evolve from a simple single user technology to the advanced multi user and web based technologies of today. The Geographic Analysis Unit is responsible for maintaining the GIS data on the Agency’s internet mapserver as well as providing maps and data in support of numerous other programs. In addition, the Geographic Analysis Unit conducts groundwater monitoring for the Section’s Ambient Sampling Network.
Anthony Dulka, Illinois EPA
Anthony Dulka is the Manager of the Planning and Assessment Unit, Groundwater Section within the Division of Public Water Supplies, Illinois EPA, where he has worked since 1987. Mr. Dulka received his B.S. in Geology/Geography from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois, before pursuing an M.S. Degree in Environmental Studies at Sangamon State University in Springfield. Although his duties have evolved over the years, Anthony coordinates and provides administrative support of scientific studies or projects pertaining to groundwater/source water protection. In addition, he is responsible for gathering and analysis of technical data to effectively manage groundwater monitoring, inspections, assessment efforts and special technical studies.
Thursday, August 27, 2009 – Crystal Lake, IL
http://tinyurl.com/mkvjan
AGENDA
Illinois EPA began its Source Water Assessment Program in 1997 in response to amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act. These amendments require States to assess all sources of public drinking water. Assessments consist of the delineation of a Source Water Protection Area for each source of drinking water, an inventory of potential sources of contamination within the area, a determination of the source’s susceptibility to contamination and a plan to make the assessments available to the public. Illinois was one of the first States to have an approved Source Water Assessment Program.
As part of the Source Water Protection Program, Illinois EPA has developed a webbased interactive GIS mapserver. This site is based on ESRI’s ArcIMS software and will allow the user to access all the databases and coverages used in the Source Water Assessments, as well as additional information such as pumpage data, land use data, and aerial photos. The website is secure and requires the user to complete and submit a Confidentiality Agreement to gain access.
Since its inception the SWAP mapserver has expanded to include data layers for Groundwater Ordinances, water quality information from the Illinois State Water Survey and more. This information is used by Illinois EPA personnel to conduct site evaluations and assessments for several different programs including the Leaking Underground Storage Tank program, Contaminant Evaluation Group, Site Remediation Referral Group and the Permit Sections of both the Bureau of Land and Bureau of Water. Training will consist of “hands-on” instruction of how to perform well surveys, search for potential sources of contamination and an overview of data available on the site.
SPEAKERS
Wade Boring, Illinois EPA
Wade has been an employee of Illinois EPA since 1985 and Manager of the Geographic Analysis Unit in the Groundwater Section of the Division of Public Water Supplies since 2000. Prior to Illinois EPA he spent 3 years working in the oilfields of Texas and offshore Louisiana. He is a graduate of Illinois State University with a degree in Geology and is a Licensed Professional Geologist in the State of Illinois. Wade has been working with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) since 1989 and has watched it evolve from a simple single user technology to the advanced multi user and web based technologies of today. The Geographic Analysis Unit is responsible for maintaining the GIS data on the Agency’s internet mapserver as well as providing maps and data in support of numerous other programs. In addition, the Geographic Analysis Unit conducts groundwater monitoring for the Section’s Ambient Sampling Network.
Anthony Dulka, Illinois EPA
Anthony Dulka is the Manager of the Planning and Assessment Unit, Groundwater Section within the Division of Public Water Supplies, Illinois EPA, where he has worked since 1987. Mr. Dulka received his B.S. in Geology/Geography from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois, before pursuing an M.S. Degree in Environmental Studies at Sangamon State University in Springfield. Although his duties have evolved over the years, Anthony coordinates and provides administrative support of scientific studies or projects pertaining to groundwater/source water protection. In addition, he is responsible for gathering and analysis of technical data to effectively manage groundwater monitoring, inspections, assessment efforts and special technical studies.
High-Tech Operator Certificate Course 1 - Register Now!
High-Tech Operator Certificate Course 1:
Treatment/Distribution Process Monitoring & Control - 2 DAY COURSE
Tuesday, August 25 & 26, 2009 - Hudson, IL
http://tinyurl.com/ksocnz
HIGH-TECH OPERATOR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
This certificate program is aimed at developing operators with a fundamental level of understanding of the high technologies used in the water utility field. The program consists of three (3) two-day courses of training. The content of the 3 training course packages are split 2/3 technical training and 1/3 managerial training.
ORGANIZATION
The program is divided among three (3) two-day specialized courses. Each course addresses one general subject area. Course 1 covers process monitoring and control of water treatment and distribution systems. Course 2 covers high-tech applications and tools used throughout treatment and distribution systems. Course 3 covers methods for managing water utility information. Participants must complete all 3 courses within the program to earn a certificate of a High Tech Operator. Courses 2 and 3 will be available at a later date TBD.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
AWWA will award a Certificate of Completion for the completion of all three two-day courses that encompass the High-Tech Operator Certificate Program. The certificate will reflect AWWA’s name and address, the participant’s name, the program, the number of hours, and the date of completion COURSE 1 – Treatment /Distribution – Process Monitoring & Control This course addresses the devices used to monitor and control processes and equipment in water treatment and distribution systems. The course begins with an overview of device symbols and how they are used to represent systems…then relates those symbols to real world devices. The course then looks at how a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system connects to sensors, analyzers, and control devices. The course looks at the components of SCADA system, the facilities/environment the system requires, and the benefits it provides. Participants will receive a glossary of terms; drawing symbols and naming standards; sample diagrams; descriptions of sensors, analyzers, control devices, and SCADA system components; features of SCADA systems; and references for finding additional information.
LESSONS
1.1 Measurement and control symbols, nomenclature, and drawing conventions
1.2 Sensing devices (e.g., flow, pressure, level, temperature)
1.3 On-line analyzers (e.g., pH, chlorine)
1.4 Control devices (e.g., actuators, switches, relays)
1.5 Logic circuits, symbols, and conventions
1.6 SCADA systems – function/operation (master units, PLCs, RTUs, historians)
1.7 Control modes
1.8 Tracking process performance (e.g., reporting, trending)
1.9 Alarm management
1.10 Standards (e.g., ISA.)
1.11 Control rooms, environments, enclosures
AGENDA
Day 1
• Measurement and control symbols, nomenclature, and drawing conventions
• Sensing devices
• Online analyzers
• Control devices
• Logic circuits, symbols, and conventions
Day 2
• SCADA Systems - function/operation
• Control modes
• Tracking process performance
• Alarm management
• Standards
• Control rooms, environments, enclosures
COURSE PREREQUISITES
None. The three courses in this series are designed to stand alone. This allows operators to take courses in any order. All three courses must be completed to obtain the High-Tech Operator certificate.
SPEAKERS
Don Bratschie, Westin Engineering
Don Bratschie manages the Chicago Area for Westin Engineering. He provides IT consulting services to water utilities to assist them in utilizing technology to improve efficiency, to lower costs and to provide information quickly and easily. Don speaks frequently at AWWA conferences on topics such as IT Planning and Asset Management Programs.
Tony Wachocki, Westin Engineering
Tony Wachocki develops training and online documentation out of Westin’s Detroit office. He developed the High Tech Operator series for AWWA and delivered the pilots for all 3 courses in Anchorage and the first AWWA public offering of Course 1 in Denver.
Treatment/Distribution Process Monitoring & Control - 2 DAY COURSE
Tuesday, August 25 & 26, 2009 - Hudson, IL
http://tinyurl.com/ksocnz
HIGH-TECH OPERATOR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
This certificate program is aimed at developing operators with a fundamental level of understanding of the high technologies used in the water utility field. The program consists of three (3) two-day courses of training. The content of the 3 training course packages are split 2/3 technical training and 1/3 managerial training.
ORGANIZATION
The program is divided among three (3) two-day specialized courses. Each course addresses one general subject area. Course 1 covers process monitoring and control of water treatment and distribution systems. Course 2 covers high-tech applications and tools used throughout treatment and distribution systems. Course 3 covers methods for managing water utility information. Participants must complete all 3 courses within the program to earn a certificate of a High Tech Operator. Courses 2 and 3 will be available at a later date TBD.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
AWWA will award a Certificate of Completion for the completion of all three two-day courses that encompass the High-Tech Operator Certificate Program. The certificate will reflect AWWA’s name and address, the participant’s name, the program, the number of hours, and the date of completion COURSE 1 – Treatment /Distribution – Process Monitoring & Control This course addresses the devices used to monitor and control processes and equipment in water treatment and distribution systems. The course begins with an overview of device symbols and how they are used to represent systems…then relates those symbols to real world devices. The course then looks at how a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system connects to sensors, analyzers, and control devices. The course looks at the components of SCADA system, the facilities/environment the system requires, and the benefits it provides. Participants will receive a glossary of terms; drawing symbols and naming standards; sample diagrams; descriptions of sensors, analyzers, control devices, and SCADA system components; features of SCADA systems; and references for finding additional information.
LESSONS
1.1 Measurement and control symbols, nomenclature, and drawing conventions
1.2 Sensing devices (e.g., flow, pressure, level, temperature)
1.3 On-line analyzers (e.g., pH, chlorine)
1.4 Control devices (e.g., actuators, switches, relays)
1.5 Logic circuits, symbols, and conventions
1.6 SCADA systems – function/operation (master units, PLCs, RTUs, historians)
1.7 Control modes
1.8 Tracking process performance (e.g., reporting, trending)
1.9 Alarm management
1.10 Standards (e.g., ISA.)
1.11 Control rooms, environments, enclosures
AGENDA
Day 1
• Measurement and control symbols, nomenclature, and drawing conventions
• Sensing devices
• Online analyzers
• Control devices
• Logic circuits, symbols, and conventions
Day 2
• SCADA Systems - function/operation
• Control modes
• Tracking process performance
• Alarm management
• Standards
• Control rooms, environments, enclosures
COURSE PREREQUISITES
None. The three courses in this series are designed to stand alone. This allows operators to take courses in any order. All three courses must be completed to obtain the High-Tech Operator certificate.
SPEAKERS
Don Bratschie, Westin Engineering
Don Bratschie manages the Chicago Area for Westin Engineering. He provides IT consulting services to water utilities to assist them in utilizing technology to improve efficiency, to lower costs and to provide information quickly and easily. Don speaks frequently at AWWA conferences on topics such as IT Planning and Asset Management Programs.
Tony Wachocki, Westin Engineering
Tony Wachocki develops training and online documentation out of Westin’s Detroit office. He developed the High Tech Operator series for AWWA and delivered the pilots for all 3 courses in Anchorage and the first AWWA public offering of Course 1 in Denver.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Drinking Water System Security Act - Input Needed
Leadership in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce has introduced legislation that would create a chemical security program for drinking water utilities. The bill is H.R. 3258, the Drinking Water System Security Act. The AWWA Water Utility Council has studied this bill and sent a letter to the committee describing recommended changes.
The WUC is now asking AWWA membership and Sections to meet with members of Congress, e-mail them, or write them to ask for their support on the most significant issue in the bill for drinking water utilities, the ability for local officials to determine how they treat and distribute local drinking water. Members of Congress are on their annual August recess right now, so it should be possible to meet them in town meetings or in their district offices.
On the Section website at www.isawwa-portal.com, select "committees" and "water utility council" you will find a copy of the AWWA letter to the committee, and a draft letter that you can personalize and localize to communicate this vital message: that the choice of materials, particularly disinfectants, and processes should remain local.
Note that there is related chemical security legislation in the House. H.R. 2868 would create a chemical security plan at chemical plants and at wastewater treatment plants. H.R. 2883 would create a chemical security plan just at wastewater plants. We are addressing just H.R. 3258 in this “call to arms.”
The WUC is now asking AWWA membership and Sections to meet with members of Congress, e-mail them, or write them to ask for their support on the most significant issue in the bill for drinking water utilities, the ability for local officials to determine how they treat and distribute local drinking water. Members of Congress are on their annual August recess right now, so it should be possible to meet them in town meetings or in their district offices.
On the Section website at www.isawwa-portal.com, select "committees" and "water utility council" you will find a copy of the AWWA letter to the committee, and a draft letter that you can personalize and localize to communicate this vital message: that the choice of materials, particularly disinfectants, and processes should remain local.
Note that there is related chemical security legislation in the House. H.R. 2868 would create a chemical security plan at chemical plants and at wastewater treatment plants. H.R. 2883 would create a chemical security plan just at wastewater plants. We are addressing just H.R. 3258 in this “call to arms.”
Governor signed Senate Bill 1919
August 10, 2009 the Governor signed Senate Bill 1919 that creates the Safe Pharmaceutical Disposal Act.
It provides that except for medications contained in intravenous fluids, syringes, or transdermal patches, no health care institution, nor any employee, staff person, contractor, or other person acting under the direction or supervision of a health care institution, may discharge, dispose of, flush, pour, or empty any unused medication into a public wastewater collection system or septic system.
The bill also provides that a violation of the Act is a petty offense subject to a fine of $500 and that fines collected under the Act from facilities licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act shall be deposited into the Long Term Care Monitor/Receiver Fund. Fines collected from all other health care institutions shall be deposited into the Environmental Protection Trust Fund.
Health care institutions shall modify their written medication protocols to be consistent with the requirements of the Act and each agency having regulatory oversight responsibility for a type of health care institution shall be responsible for ensuring those institutions' compliance. Effective January 1, 2010.
It provides that except for medications contained in intravenous fluids, syringes, or transdermal patches, no health care institution, nor any employee, staff person, contractor, or other person acting under the direction or supervision of a health care institution, may discharge, dispose of, flush, pour, or empty any unused medication into a public wastewater collection system or septic system.
The bill also provides that a violation of the Act is a petty offense subject to a fine of $500 and that fines collected under the Act from facilities licensed under the Nursing Home Care Act shall be deposited into the Long Term Care Monitor/Receiver Fund. Fines collected from all other health care institutions shall be deposited into the Environmental Protection Trust Fund.
Health care institutions shall modify their written medication protocols to be consistent with the requirements of the Act and each agency having regulatory oversight responsibility for a type of health care institution shall be responsible for ensuring those institutions' compliance. Effective January 1, 2010.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
ISAWWA Offers Safe Water Scholarship Program
The Safe Water Scholarship Program, provided by the Illinois Section American Water Works Association (ISAWWA), is available for high school, college, and continuing education students pursuing a degree or certification related to drinking water or water quality. Applicable fields of study include civil and environmental engineering, chemistry, biology, and water system operations. Scholarships are also available for high school students to attend summer enrichment programs in science or engineering.
ISAWWA is the Illinois chapter of the American Water Works Association, a nationwide organization of more than 60,000 drinking water industry professionals, representing water utilities, engineering firms, research institutions, equipment manufacturers, and regulatory agencies. ISAWWA’s mission is to be the authoritative resource on safe water in Illinois. Visit ISAWWA’s web site, www.isawwa-portal.com, click on the Outreach Program link, and scroll to the bottom of the page for a link to download the scholarship application. Contact Laurie Dougherty at laurie@isawwa.org with any questions about the scholarship program or the application.
ISAWWA is the Illinois chapter of the American Water Works Association, a nationwide organization of more than 60,000 drinking water industry professionals, representing water utilities, engineering firms, research institutions, equipment manufacturers, and regulatory agencies. ISAWWA’s mission is to be the authoritative resource on safe water in Illinois. Visit ISAWWA’s web site, www.isawwa-portal.com, click on the Outreach Program link, and scroll to the bottom of the page for a link to download the scholarship application. Contact Laurie Dougherty at laurie@isawwa.org with any questions about the scholarship program or the application.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Senate Bill 189 - Illinois
Senate Bill 189 Sent to Governor: June 26, 2009
Governor Action Deadline: August 25, 2009
Effective Date: January 1, 2010
Synopsis of Senate Bill 189, amendments to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
In the waning hours of the legislative session the General Assembly gave final approval to Senate Bill 189, a major rewrite of the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. The following information provides a glimpse into the provisions of the new Act.
The legislation declares that it is the policy of the state that public records shall be made available upon request except when denial of access furthers the public policy underlying a specific exemption.
All records, with certain exceptions, in the custody or possession of a public body are presumed to be open to inspection or copying. Any public body that asserts that a record is exempt from disclosure has the burden of proving so by clear and convincing evidence standard.
Senate Bill 189 creates the Office of Public Access Counselor in the Attorney General’s Office and provides that office with the following responsibilities:
• To establish and administer a program to provide free training for public officials and to educate the public on the Freedom of Information Act and the Open Meetings Act;
• To prepare and distribute interpretive or educational materials and programs;
• To resolve disputes involving a potential violations of the Open Meetings Act or the Freedom of Information Act by mediating or informally resolving the dispute or by issuing a binding opinion;
• To issue advisory opinions;
• To respond to informal inquiries made by the public and public bodies;
• To conduct research on compliance issues;
• To make recommendations to the General Assembly;
• To develop an electronic training curriculum for Freedom of Information officers;
• To develop an electronic Open Meetings Act training curriculum for employees, officers, and members designated by public bodies; and
• To prepare and distribute to public bodies model policies for compliance with the Freedom of Information Act.
The Public Access Counselor may request that subpoenas be issued by the Attorney General.
The Attorney General shall post binding opinions and any rules on the official office website and shall make them available for immediate inspection.
Public Access Counselor
A person may file a request in writing for review with the Public Access Counselor not later than 60 days after the alleged violation.
The Public Access Counselor may determine the alleged violation is unfounded. If so, no further action will be taken.
In cases where the Public Access Counselor does feel that further action is warranted:
• A copy of the request for review will be sent to the public body within seven (7) working days.
• Within five (5) working days the Public Access Counselor shall notify the public body and the requester whether further inquiry is warranted.
• Within seven (7) working days after receipt of the request for review, the public body shall provide copies of the records requested and may answer the allegations.
• If a public body fails to furnish specified records the Attorney General may issue a subpoena.
• The Public Access Counselor also has the right to examine a verbatim recording of a meeting closed to the public or the minutes of a closed meeting.
• The Public Access Counselor can extend the time for making final decision by up to twenty-one (21) business days or can decide to address the matter without the issuance of a binding opinion. Otherwise the Attorney General shall issue an opinion within sixty (60) business days after initiating review. The opinion shall be binding upon both the requester and the public body, subject to administrative review.
The Attorney General may exercise discretion and choose to resolve a request for review by mediation or by a means other than the issuance of a binding opinion.
A public body that discloses records in accordance with an binding or advisory opinion of the Attorney General is immune from all liabilities and not liable for penalties under the Act.
The Attorney General may also issue advisory opinions to public bodies regarding compliance with this Act.
If a person seeking the right to inspect or receive a copy of a public record prevails (now substantially prevails) in a proceeding under this Section, the court shall (now may) award such person reasonable attorneys' fees and costs
If the court determines that a public body willfully and intentionally failed to comply with this Act, or otherwise acted in bad faith, the court shall also impose upon the public body a civil penalty of not less that $2,500 nor more than $5,000 for each occurrence.
Training
Every public body shall designate employees, officers, or members to receive training on compliance and must submit the list to the Public Access Counselor. The designated employees must complete an electronic training curriculum by July 1, 2010.
Employees added to the list have 30 days to complete the training.
Revised Definitions
The definition of "public records" expanded to include
electronic communications;
New definitions of “private information” and “commercial purpose” have been included;
Public Bodies
May not require that a request be submitted on a standard form or require the requester to specify the purpose for a request, except to determine whether the records are requested for a commercial purpose or whether to grant a request for a fee waiver.
Shall comply with requests within five (now seven) business days and may extend for five (now seven) business days. Denial shall be furnished in writing (now by letter) and provide a detailed factual basis for any exemptions claimed;
Failure to comply (now respond) shall be considered a denial.
Allows twenty-one (21) working days to respond to commercial purpose requests.
A public body that fails to respond to a request within the requisite periods in this Section but thereafter provides the requester with copies of the requested public records may not impose a fee.
A public body may charge the requester for the actual cost of purchasing the recording medium, whether disc, diskette, tape, or other medium. A public body may not charge the requester for the costs of any search for and review of the records or other personnel costs associated with producing the records.
No fees shall be charged for the first 50 pages of black and white, letter or legal sized copies.
The fee for black and white, letter or legal sized copies shall not exceed 15 cents per page.
If a public body provides copies in color or in a size other than letter or legal, the public body may not charge more than its actual cost for reproducing the records.
The cost for certifying a record shall not exceed $1.
Freedom of Information Officers
Each public body shall designate one or more officials or employees to act as its Freedom of Information officer or officers and ensure that the public body responds to requests in a timely fashion. All Freedom of Information officers shall annually complete an electronic training curriculum.
Exclusions/Exemptions:
There are various exclusions and exemptions provided for in the Act. The following is an almost inclusive listing:
• Personal information from any certified prevailing wage payroll records;
• Selected information from criminal history records;
• Some information from settlement agreements, however settlement agreements themselves are public records;
• Education test related materials;
• Information received under procedures for evaluation faculty members by peers in educational institutions;
• Information concerning a school or university's adjudication of student disciplinary cases, but only to the extent that disclosure would unavoidably reveal the identity of the student;
• Course materials or research materials used by faculty members;
• A redefinition of the exemption for Architects' plans, and other construction related technical documents to include power generating and distribution stations and other transmission and distribution facilities, water treatment facilities, airport facilities, sport stadiums, convention centers, and all government owned, operated, or occupied buildings, but only to the extent that disclosure would compromise security;
• Records relating to a public body's adjudication of employee grievances or disciplinary cases; however, this exemption shall not extend to the final outcome of cases in which discipline is imposed;
• All information determined to be confidential under Section 4002 of the Technology Advancement and Development Act;
• Library circulation and order records identifying library users with specific materials;
• Applications, related documents, and medical records received by the Experimental Organ Transplantation Procedures Board and any and all documents or other records prepared by the Experimental Organ Transplantation Procedures Board or its staff relating to applications it has received;
• Information and records held by the Department of Public Health and its authorized representatives relating to known or suspected cases of sexually transmissible disease;
• Information exempted under Section 30 of the Radon Industry Licensing Act;
• Firm performance evaluations under the Architectural, Engineering, and Land Surveying Qualifications Based Selection Act;
• Information restricted by the Illinois Prepaid Tuition Act;
• Information exempted under the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, and records of any lawfully created State or local inspector general's office that would be exempt if created or obtained by an Executive Inspector General's office under that Act;
• Information contained in a local emergency energy plan submitted to a municipality;
• Information and data concerning the distribution of surcharge funds collected and remitted by wireless carriers under the Wireless Emergency Telephone Safety Act;
• Law enforcement officer identification information or driver identification information compiled by a law enforcement agency or the Department of Transportation;
• Records and information provided to a residential health care facility resident sexual assault and death review team or the Executive Council under the Abuse Prevention Review Team Act;
• Information provided to the predatory lending database created pursuant the Residential Real Property Disclosure Act, except when authorized;
• Defense budgets and petitions for certification of compensation and expenses for court appointed trial counsel;
• Information that is prohibited from being disclosed under the Illinois Health and Hazardous Substances Registry Act;
• Security information compiled, collected, or prepared by or for the Regional Transportation Authority or the St. Clair County Transit District;
• Information prohibited from being disclosed by the Personnel Records Review Act;
• Information prohibited from being disclosed by the Illinois School Student Records Act; and
• Information the disclosure of which is restricted under the Public Utilities Act.
Governor Action Deadline: August 25, 2009
Effective Date: January 1, 2010
Synopsis of Senate Bill 189, amendments to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
In the waning hours of the legislative session the General Assembly gave final approval to Senate Bill 189, a major rewrite of the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. The following information provides a glimpse into the provisions of the new Act.
The legislation declares that it is the policy of the state that public records shall be made available upon request except when denial of access furthers the public policy underlying a specific exemption.
All records, with certain exceptions, in the custody or possession of a public body are presumed to be open to inspection or copying. Any public body that asserts that a record is exempt from disclosure has the burden of proving so by clear and convincing evidence standard.
Senate Bill 189 creates the Office of Public Access Counselor in the Attorney General’s Office and provides that office with the following responsibilities:
• To establish and administer a program to provide free training for public officials and to educate the public on the Freedom of Information Act and the Open Meetings Act;
• To prepare and distribute interpretive or educational materials and programs;
• To resolve disputes involving a potential violations of the Open Meetings Act or the Freedom of Information Act by mediating or informally resolving the dispute or by issuing a binding opinion;
• To issue advisory opinions;
• To respond to informal inquiries made by the public and public bodies;
• To conduct research on compliance issues;
• To make recommendations to the General Assembly;
• To develop an electronic training curriculum for Freedom of Information officers;
• To develop an electronic Open Meetings Act training curriculum for employees, officers, and members designated by public bodies; and
• To prepare and distribute to public bodies model policies for compliance with the Freedom of Information Act.
The Public Access Counselor may request that subpoenas be issued by the Attorney General.
The Attorney General shall post binding opinions and any rules on the official office website and shall make them available for immediate inspection.
Public Access Counselor
A person may file a request in writing for review with the Public Access Counselor not later than 60 days after the alleged violation.
The Public Access Counselor may determine the alleged violation is unfounded. If so, no further action will be taken.
In cases where the Public Access Counselor does feel that further action is warranted:
• A copy of the request for review will be sent to the public body within seven (7) working days.
• Within five (5) working days the Public Access Counselor shall notify the public body and the requester whether further inquiry is warranted.
• Within seven (7) working days after receipt of the request for review, the public body shall provide copies of the records requested and may answer the allegations.
• If a public body fails to furnish specified records the Attorney General may issue a subpoena.
• The Public Access Counselor also has the right to examine a verbatim recording of a meeting closed to the public or the minutes of a closed meeting.
• The Public Access Counselor can extend the time for making final decision by up to twenty-one (21) business days or can decide to address the matter without the issuance of a binding opinion. Otherwise the Attorney General shall issue an opinion within sixty (60) business days after initiating review. The opinion shall be binding upon both the requester and the public body, subject to administrative review.
The Attorney General may exercise discretion and choose to resolve a request for review by mediation or by a means other than the issuance of a binding opinion.
A public body that discloses records in accordance with an binding or advisory opinion of the Attorney General is immune from all liabilities and not liable for penalties under the Act.
The Attorney General may also issue advisory opinions to public bodies regarding compliance with this Act.
If a person seeking the right to inspect or receive a copy of a public record prevails (now substantially prevails) in a proceeding under this Section, the court shall (now may) award such person reasonable attorneys' fees and costs
If the court determines that a public body willfully and intentionally failed to comply with this Act, or otherwise acted in bad faith, the court shall also impose upon the public body a civil penalty of not less that $2,500 nor more than $5,000 for each occurrence.
Training
Every public body shall designate employees, officers, or members to receive training on compliance and must submit the list to the Public Access Counselor. The designated employees must complete an electronic training curriculum by July 1, 2010.
Employees added to the list have 30 days to complete the training.
Revised Definitions
The definition of "public records" expanded to include
electronic communications;
New definitions of “private information” and “commercial purpose” have been included;
Public Bodies
May not require that a request be submitted on a standard form or require the requester to specify the purpose for a request, except to determine whether the records are requested for a commercial purpose or whether to grant a request for a fee waiver.
Shall comply with requests within five (now seven) business days and may extend for five (now seven) business days. Denial shall be furnished in writing (now by letter) and provide a detailed factual basis for any exemptions claimed;
Failure to comply (now respond) shall be considered a denial.
Allows twenty-one (21) working days to respond to commercial purpose requests.
A public body that fails to respond to a request within the requisite periods in this Section but thereafter provides the requester with copies of the requested public records may not impose a fee.
A public body may charge the requester for the actual cost of purchasing the recording medium, whether disc, diskette, tape, or other medium. A public body may not charge the requester for the costs of any search for and review of the records or other personnel costs associated with producing the records.
No fees shall be charged for the first 50 pages of black and white, letter or legal sized copies.
The fee for black and white, letter or legal sized copies shall not exceed 15 cents per page.
If a public body provides copies in color or in a size other than letter or legal, the public body may not charge more than its actual cost for reproducing the records.
The cost for certifying a record shall not exceed $1.
Freedom of Information Officers
Each public body shall designate one or more officials or employees to act as its Freedom of Information officer or officers and ensure that the public body responds to requests in a timely fashion. All Freedom of Information officers shall annually complete an electronic training curriculum.
Exclusions/Exemptions:
There are various exclusions and exemptions provided for in the Act. The following is an almost inclusive listing:
• Personal information from any certified prevailing wage payroll records;
• Selected information from criminal history records;
• Some information from settlement agreements, however settlement agreements themselves are public records;
• Education test related materials;
• Information received under procedures for evaluation faculty members by peers in educational institutions;
• Information concerning a school or university's adjudication of student disciplinary cases, but only to the extent that disclosure would unavoidably reveal the identity of the student;
• Course materials or research materials used by faculty members;
• A redefinition of the exemption for Architects' plans, and other construction related technical documents to include power generating and distribution stations and other transmission and distribution facilities, water treatment facilities, airport facilities, sport stadiums, convention centers, and all government owned, operated, or occupied buildings, but only to the extent that disclosure would compromise security;
• Records relating to a public body's adjudication of employee grievances or disciplinary cases; however, this exemption shall not extend to the final outcome of cases in which discipline is imposed;
• All information determined to be confidential under Section 4002 of the Technology Advancement and Development Act;
• Library circulation and order records identifying library users with specific materials;
• Applications, related documents, and medical records received by the Experimental Organ Transplantation Procedures Board and any and all documents or other records prepared by the Experimental Organ Transplantation Procedures Board or its staff relating to applications it has received;
• Information and records held by the Department of Public Health and its authorized representatives relating to known or suspected cases of sexually transmissible disease;
• Information exempted under Section 30 of the Radon Industry Licensing Act;
• Firm performance evaluations under the Architectural, Engineering, and Land Surveying Qualifications Based Selection Act;
• Information restricted by the Illinois Prepaid Tuition Act;
• Information exempted under the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act, and records of any lawfully created State or local inspector general's office that would be exempt if created or obtained by an Executive Inspector General's office under that Act;
• Information contained in a local emergency energy plan submitted to a municipality;
• Information and data concerning the distribution of surcharge funds collected and remitted by wireless carriers under the Wireless Emergency Telephone Safety Act;
• Law enforcement officer identification information or driver identification information compiled by a law enforcement agency or the Department of Transportation;
• Records and information provided to a residential health care facility resident sexual assault and death review team or the Executive Council under the Abuse Prevention Review Team Act;
• Information provided to the predatory lending database created pursuant the Residential Real Property Disclosure Act, except when authorized;
• Defense budgets and petitions for certification of compensation and expenses for court appointed trial counsel;
• Information that is prohibited from being disclosed under the Illinois Health and Hazardous Substances Registry Act;
• Security information compiled, collected, or prepared by or for the Regional Transportation Authority or the St. Clair County Transit District;
• Information prohibited from being disclosed by the Personnel Records Review Act;
• Information prohibited from being disclosed by the Illinois School Student Records Act; and
• Information the disclosure of which is restricted under the Public Utilities Act.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
ILWARN Mutual Aid Agreement Ready
Following the impacts of Hurricane Katrina, it became apparent that even with the extraordinary efforts of utilities, water associations, and state regulatory agencies, the demand for resources and knowing where those resources were available overwhelmed the ability to effectively coordinate the initial response.
Realizing that utilities needed a different approach, the following leaders in the water community and state agencies have joined together to create the Illinois Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network or ILWARN.
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Illinois Rural Water Association
Illinois Water Environment Association
Illinois Department of Public Health
Illinois Section AWWA
How to Join ILWARN
If your utility hasn't filled out the membership application....
1 - Click on membership application to register your utility as a member and you will receive a confirming email.
2 - After confirming your email, return to ILWARN, login and complete your full utility profile.
3 - Have your Mutual Aid Agreement signed either online or via paper copy. Submit paper copy to ILWARN, 545 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, IL 60174.
4 - Download the tutorial videos and attend local training provided by ILWARN on activation procedures.
For more information please contact info@ILWARN.org.
About ILWARN - PDF presentation on ILWARN overview
Based on three other models, CalWARN, FlaWARN and TxWARN, ILWARN is designed to provide a utility-to-utility response during an emergency.
Our mission is to support and promote statewide emergency preparedness, disaster response, and mutual assistance matters for public and private water and wastewater utilities for natural and man-made events.
The ILWARN Web site does this by providing its members with emergency planning, response, and recovery information before, during, and after an emergency. As the nationwide WARN system expands, it will become easier to provide mutual aid to other states as needed.
Through the ILWARN Web site, a member can request emergency equipment (pumps, generators, chlorinators, evacuators, etc.) and trained personnel (eg. treatment plant operators) that they may need in an emergency.
The ILWARN program provides its member utilities with:
* A standard omnibus mutual assistance agreement and process for sharing emergency resources among members statewide.
* The resources to respond and recover more quickly from a disaster.
* A mutual assistance program consistent with other statewide mutual aid programs.
* A forum for developing and maintaining emergency contacts and relationships.
* New ideas from lessons learned in disasters.
ILWARN Benefits
* No cost to become a member
* Increased planning and coordination
* Enhance access to specialized resources
* A single agreement provides access to all member utilities statewide
* Provides access to resources during an emergency without precontractual limitations or retainer fees
* Expedites arrival of aid
* Signatories have a pre-established relationship under which they are able to share resources during an emergency at the discretion of each participating agency
* Is consistent with the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
* Provides a list of emergency contacts and phone numbers
* Reduces administrative conflicts
* Agreement contains indemnification and workers’ compensation provisions to protect participating utilities, and provides for reimbursement of costs, as needed
* Increases hope that recovery will come quickly
There are two sides to this Web site. The public side is open to anyone to view. This side gives you basic information about ILWARN and how to join.
Realizing that utilities needed a different approach, the following leaders in the water community and state agencies have joined together to create the Illinois Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network or ILWARN.
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Illinois Rural Water Association
Illinois Water Environment Association
Illinois Department of Public Health
Illinois Section AWWA
How to Join ILWARN
If your utility hasn't filled out the membership application....
1 - Click on membership application to register your utility as a member and you will receive a confirming email.
2 - After confirming your email, return to ILWARN, login and complete your full utility profile.
3 - Have your Mutual Aid Agreement signed either online or via paper copy. Submit paper copy to ILWARN, 545 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, IL 60174.
4 - Download the tutorial videos and attend local training provided by ILWARN on activation procedures.
For more information please contact info@ILWARN.org.
About ILWARN - PDF presentation on ILWARN overview
Based on three other models, CalWARN, FlaWARN and TxWARN, ILWARN is designed to provide a utility-to-utility response during an emergency.
Our mission is to support and promote statewide emergency preparedness, disaster response, and mutual assistance matters for public and private water and wastewater utilities for natural and man-made events.
The ILWARN Web site does this by providing its members with emergency planning, response, and recovery information before, during, and after an emergency. As the nationwide WARN system expands, it will become easier to provide mutual aid to other states as needed.
Through the ILWARN Web site, a member can request emergency equipment (pumps, generators, chlorinators, evacuators, etc.) and trained personnel (eg. treatment plant operators) that they may need in an emergency.
The ILWARN program provides its member utilities with:
* A standard omnibus mutual assistance agreement and process for sharing emergency resources among members statewide.
* The resources to respond and recover more quickly from a disaster.
* A mutual assistance program consistent with other statewide mutual aid programs.
* A forum for developing and maintaining emergency contacts and relationships.
* New ideas from lessons learned in disasters.
ILWARN Benefits
* No cost to become a member
* Increased planning and coordination
* Enhance access to specialized resources
* A single agreement provides access to all member utilities statewide
* Provides access to resources during an emergency without precontractual limitations or retainer fees
* Expedites arrival of aid
* Signatories have a pre-established relationship under which they are able to share resources during an emergency at the discretion of each participating agency
* Is consistent with the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
* Provides a list of emergency contacts and phone numbers
* Reduces administrative conflicts
* Agreement contains indemnification and workers’ compensation provisions to protect participating utilities, and provides for reimbursement of costs, as needed
* Increases hope that recovery will come quickly
There are two sides to this Web site. The public side is open to anyone to view. This side gives you basic information about ILWARN and how to join.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
2009 Joint Water Conference
Well booths are starting to sell out. As of today we have about 20 booths left. This is one of the best opportunities to get in front of your target market. Of course, if you just sit in the your booth and read the paper or play sodoku, you won't get much out this show or any show. Exhibitors need to be engaging and interesting. You need to show that you are interested in what your potential client needs are. You can't sell them something you don't yet know they want. Find out! Find out about them and what they are planning. How would they like to be contacted? Do they want you to call them, email them, fax them, take them to lunch or twitter them! Yes - you may not know what twittering is but soon everyone will be tweeting!
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