The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is accepting proposals for up to eight $25,000 cooperative agreements to support the protection of human health and the environment in communities affected by the BP oil spill. Local incorporated non-profit community-based organizations—including faith based organizations and those affiliated with religious institutions, environmental justice networks, and local Native American tribal governments—located and working in areas within affected states, are eligible to apply.

EPA developed the grant program after meeting with local organizations in the Gulf Region and learning that there was a need for technical assistance to support educational outreach to communities affected by the BP oil spill. The grants will provide funding to help develop educational materials on what seafood is safe to eat, what to do if exposed to oil, and how to address and adapt to the spill’s long-term effects. Providing grant funding directly to local organizations will help to ensure that information is distributed through trusted networks of communication and from organizations that will continue to support efforts to rebuild in the wake of disaster.

Organizations that are able to provide accurate and current information to a wide geographic area in the affected region are encouraged to apply by September 13, 2010.

To read the request for proposals and for information on how to apply: http://epa.gov/environmentaljustice/grants/bp-spill-grants.html

For the environmental professional that wants to read a very informed newsletter.  Read about the Academy of Board Certified Environmental Professional (ABCEP) Board of Trustees new committees and new strategies as well as  information that is pertinent to today’s environmental issues.  As the Executive Administrator/Event Planner, my role is key in bringing new initiatives while maintaining the old standards of professionalism as well as planning Annual Statewide National meetings, Retreats for the Trustees and monthly and bi-monthly Board of Trustee meetings/events. 

 The ABCEP is an organization that certifies qualified environmental professionals.  Check out www.abcep.org for more information.  Newsletter: July2010- abcep

In December 2007, I was appointed as the new Executive Director for the Academy of Board Certified Environmental Professionals (ABCEP).  I humbly accepted the position with great excitement and enthusiasm.  As the Executive Director, I plan to continue the professional image that has already been established as well as institute new and more innovated ways.   I believe that my 21 years of State service working in Government for the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) would be an asset to this position.  I currently serve as the Executive Assistant to MDE’s Assistant Secretary.  This position requires working directly with both MDE and the Governor’s Executive Staff.  This position also requires frequent contact with other cabinet level officials, Maryland State Legislators and stakeholders.  I also serve as liaison between the Assistant Secretary and all of the Administrations that report directly to him.  For many years, I assisted in staffing the Governor appointed Environmental Justice & Sustainable Community Commission formerly the Environmental Justice Advisory Committee and was known as the go-to-person for both.  The Executive Assistant position requires wearing many hats on any given day.  Flexibility, organization, and professionalism as well as outstanding customer service are critical. 

My attention to detail as well as organizational skills that I use in my Event Planning buisness,  NaeDay Productions, LLC should also be intrustmental in this position.

Like everything in life, we don’t get there alone.  I have been blessed and fortunate to have family and friends that have been very supportive in assisting me reach these goals and milestone.

I am looking forward to what 2008 has for me.