Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com Baron & Budd, P.C. - Helping People with Mesothelioma for 30 Years Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:48:19 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.7.1 en hourly 1 West Virginia school district settles with EPA over asbestos violations http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/west-virginia-school/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/west-virginia-school/#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:01:42 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5171 The school district in Clay, West Virginia, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have reached a settlement regarding the violation of the Asbestos Hazards Emergency Response Act (AHERA) at an elementary school in the county. The law requires schools to inspect and manage asbestos materials. In 2007, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, acting with the EPA, found one violation. The school district did not inspect all areas in each school building at least once every three years. The laws ensure that any asbestos in the school is not being disturbed by any means, as the disturbance and distribution of asbestos can lead to asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer. The school district has since come into compliance with the law and their fine has been reduced.

For the full story, go to EPA.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/west-virginia-school/feed/ Asbestos and other surprises during Franklin Township construction project http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/asbestos-and-other-surprises/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/asbestos-and-other-surprises/#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:01:30 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5172 The Hunterdon County school board recently authorized more than $8 million for a construction project at one of their schools. Previously, they had spent $142,100 to rid the school of asbestos. The construction project had to be halted, in part, because of the discovery that there was still asbestos on the property. In 2005, the school district hired a contractor to remove asbestos insulation and floor tiles. The work was supposed to have been completed, and air quality tests were later reformed. However, during the construction process, workers found 71 feet of pipe covered in asbestos and approximately 120 feet of asbestos surrounding the boiler. While all of the asbestos is encapsulated, there is some risk of a portion of it being disturbed during the construction process.

For the full story, go to Hunterdon County Democrat.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/asbestos-and-other-surprises/feed/ Early detection program created for those at high risk for lung cancer http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/early-detection-program/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/early-detection-program/#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:44:02 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5170 The early stages of lung cancer typically have no symptoms. However, as the disease becomes more advanced it is deadlier than colon cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer combined. Some people such as smokers and those exposed to asbestos, nickel, radon, arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are at increased risk for developing lung cancer. These populations are the target group for the early detection program at Kent Hospital.

The new test looks for nodules on the lungs using a low-dose CT scan. This is not a screening for lung cancer, but rather a way to proactively monitor high-risk patients and determine the need for further testing while the disease may still be treatable. Because it is not an approved screening method, it is not covered by insurance.

For the full story, go to Providence Business News.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/10/early-detection-program/feed/ Contractor hired for demolition of former concrete plant http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/contractor-hired-for/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/contractor-hired-for/#comments Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:58:12 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5173 In late January, the contract for the removal of 10 structures on the site of the former Wilson Concrete Plant in Bellevue, Nebraska was awarded to Anderson Excavating Co. One of the first steps in demolishing the buildings, located on 27 acres, is the removal of hazardous materials, including asbestos and mercury. After removal of these materials in completed, nearly 63,000 square yards of concrete and 45,000 cubic yards of other materials will be removed. The contract was awarded to Anderson, whose low bid was just below $1 million.

For the full story, go to The Omaha World-Herald.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/contractor-hired-for/feed/ Renovations may close Pennsylvania high school next year http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/renovations-may-close/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/renovations-may-close/#comments Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:58:03 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5174 Renovations at Montour High School in Pennsylvania have become a bit more complicated recently. The school board is considering relocating students to other buildings in order to finish the renovation project in one year rather than exposing the students to the process for two years. Several problems have arisen during the discussion of where to move the students. One set of problems revolves around the discovery of asbestos in five new places among existing schools. This discovery compounds the problems the district is already facing with the school renovation.

Asbestos is a hazardous substance that was commonly used in construction materials for many years before its dangers were widely known. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and other serious illnesses. Asbestos abatement must be performed by competent professionals in a strictly regulated manner to protect the health of the workers and the public.

For the full story, go to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/renovations-may-close/feed/ World War II era hangar gets an overhaul http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/world-war-ii-era-hangar/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/world-war-ii-era-hangar/#comments Tue, 09 Mar 2010 09:53:46 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5175 The Coolidge City Council decided that a World War II era hanger located in the Arizona community’s airport will be preserved. The hangar must have a complete overhaul that includes the removal of asbestos shingles. However, the historical authenticity of the building will be preserved as much as possible. The hanger was built to house aircraft during WWII while the airport was serving as a maintenance facility and pilot training airfield. Due to the shortage of steel during WWII, the building was constructed with wooden trusses and is one of the few hangars made of wood left in the United States.

For the full story, go to The Arizona Republic.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/09/world-war-ii-era-hangar/feed/ More asbestos than expected at former hospital building http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/more-asbestos-than-expected/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/more-asbestos-than-expected/#comments Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:53:46 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5176 In mid February, the demolition of the Caldwell County Hospital in Kentucky was scheduled to begin. Prior to demolition, inspections revealed a higher level of asbestos than had originally been anticipated. The asbestos was found in floor tiles as well as in pipe wrappings. Because asbestos removal is strictly regulated by federal law, the demolition company must be certified in asbestos abatement and be able to produce a performance bond. Once the demolition process is completed, the medical center will still have a 20-year liability window during which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will make sure that the debris was disposed of in compliance with federal standards.

For the full story, go to The Times Leader.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/more-asbestos-than-expected/feed/ Demolition contract awarded for 130-year-old buildings http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/contract-awarded/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/contract-awarded/#comments Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:53:19 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5177 Chuck Shane Equipment, LLC will demolish buildings on Main St. in Braidwood City, Illinois once asbestos has been safely removed. Asbestos was used in many older buildings as insulation and fireproofing material before its health hazards became known. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to serious illnesses like mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that attacks the lining of the lungs, chest and abdomen.

The Braidwood Area Historical Society has been given permission to look for any historical artifacts that can be salvaged from the buildings that were built approximately 130 years ago. Some of the items they hope to recover include old doors from within the buildings, an American Legion entrance door which has the group’s insignia, bricks and possibly portions of the original tin ceiling.

For the full story, go to Braidwood Journal.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/contract-awarded/feed/ 75% of adult cancer patients struggle with breakthrough cancer pain http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/cancer-patients-struggle/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/cancer-patients-struggle/#comments Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:50:36 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5178 Recent studies by the American Pain Foundation indicate that one of the most difficult aspects of pain management for three-quarters of adult cancer patients is breakthrough pain. Breakthrough pain is a term used for the temporary flares of severe pain that occur even while other pain medication is being used. This pain can negatively impact quality of life and can make it more difficult for a patient to cope with other aspects of their cancer treatment.

Breakthrough cancer pain is severe and can leave patients fearful of future episodes that may occur. Pain management is a crucial step in restoring the quality of life for these patients. Additionally, this pain can cause both financial and medical hardships. The pain can cause the patients to take more pain medication, often opioids, and may lead them to visit their healthcare provider more frequently, increasing their medical expenses. Approximately half of the patients suffering from breakthrough pain who discussed the issue with their doctor were told it was a normal side effect. However, very little is known about the pain itself, and more studies are needed to find effective pain management treatments.

For the full story, go to PR Newswire.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/08/cancer-patients-struggle/feed/ NCCN announces Flash Updates with malignant pleural mesothelioma release http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/07/nccn-announces/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/07/nccn-announces/#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:38:34 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5147 The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has announced a new service called NCCN Flash Updates, which provides email notification to subscribers when updates are published to the NCCN Drugs & Biologics Compendium and the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology.

Users currently registered at NCCN.org have received a complimentary preview of the Flash Updates that notified them of the latest update, the publication of the NCCN Guidelines for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) as an addition to the Complete Library of NCCN Guidelines. The Flash Update included information about treatment options for malignant pleural mesothelioma patients and first-line therapy regimens. A new chapter on malignant pleural mesothelioma was also added to the NCCN Compendium.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure which attacks the membrane surrounding the lungs, abdomen or heart. Mesothelioma is very resistant to treatment, so new information is always beneficial.

The NCCN Guidelines are updated continually as new clinical evidence and research data becomes available. Flash Updates make it possible for clinicians to have timely notice of this information so that they can make more informed treatment decisions for their cancer patients.

For the full story, go to PR Inside.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/07/nccn-announces/feed/ ADAO announces sixth annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/06/adao-announces-sixth/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/06/adao-announces-sixth/#comments Sat, 06 Mar 2010 13:34:22 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5148 The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is hosting its sixth annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference on April 10, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. Activities are planned throughout the weekend to offer education and outreach to families, businesses and scientists about ongoing ADAO efforts. ADAO is dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of asbestos, pushing for an asbestos ban and encouraging research to improve treatment options for patients with asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, a form of cancer that is strongly tied to asbestos exposure.

Presenters at the conference include prominent scientists, physicians and safety and health care professionals from the United States, Canada, Brazil, England and Germany. The conference will include discussion of asbestos exposure facts, asbestos-related disease and prevention and resources for help and support for patients and families. A private gathering for patients, families and caregivers on April 9 will be followed by a welcome reception for all registered attendees. Jordan Zevon – son of rock musician Warren Zevon, who died of mesothelioma – will provide entertainment. There will be a recognition ceremony on April 10 and a Unity and Hope Brunch on April 11 to remember loved ones who have died of asbestos-related disease.

The 6th annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference is made possible by ADAO, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat.

For the full story, go to Business Wire.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/06/adao-announces-sixth/feed/ Daytona Beach Pier remains closed http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/daytona-beach-pier-2/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/daytona-beach-pier-2/#comments Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:16:32 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5153 The Daytona Beach Pier in Florida still remains closed after asbestos was discovered in the restaurant and casino building last fall. City officials had hoped to reopen the pier in February, but it may not happen now until early summer.

City officials won’t be choosing an asbestos removal contractor until March. Once the asbestos work begins, it should take between 45 and 60 days to complete. Asbestos removal costs are estimated at $80,000 to $100,000.

In addition to having the asbestos removed from the restaurant, the wooden pier structure will need a lot of repairs that could take up to two years to complete. Other repair work has taken place inside the restaurant building already, including installation of new flooring, fumigation, wall patching, sterilization of kitchen equipment and construction of a new bar.

For the full story, go to News-Journal Online.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/daytona-beach-pier-2/feed/ Mesothelioma research and other projects supported by Mayo Clinic fundraising effort http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/mesothelioma-research/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/mesothelioma-research/#comments Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:31:17 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5149 For the last five years, the Mayo Clinic ran a fundraising effort called “The Campaign for Mayo Clinic.” They surpassed their $1.25 billion goal last September. When the campaign ended on December 31, 286,000 donors had donated a total of $1.35 billion.

The Mayo Clinic released a list of projects in late January that were made possible by this fundraising effort. One of these projects took place at the Schulze Center for Novel Therapeutics, translating laboratory findings into new methods of cancer treatment. One of the methods they explored was using the measles virus to fight mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. They also explored using immunotherapy against prostate cancer.

Also funded through this effort is a project concerning individualized medicine. Researchers from the Mayo Clinic have been working to unlock genetic information that could help prevent and predict illness and determine which forms of treatment would have the greatest likelihood of success for each patient based on their DNA.

For the full story, go to Post-Bulletin.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/mesothelioma-research/feed/ Oregon flooring contractor fined for asbestos violations http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/oregon-flooring-contractor/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/oregon-flooring-contractor/#comments Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:29:13 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5151 Rubenstein’s Contract Carpeting LLC was fined $1,800 by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for asbestos violations related to an asbestos abatement project at Bend Senior High School. On September 3, 2009, subcontractors used putty knives and scrapers to remove 20 square feet of asbestos floor tiles at the high school. Neither Rubenstein’s nor the subcontractors were licensed or certified to perform asbestos abatement. Unlicensed asbestos abatement is against DEQ regulations. The contractor appealed the penalty in December.

Asbestos abatement is strictly regulated in order to protect public health and the health of the workers. The subcontractors who performed the asbestos removal at the high school broke up the asbestos-containing materials and did not follow applicable asbestos regulations, leading to a possible release of asbestos fibers into the air. Inhaling asbestos fibers has been proven to cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure.

The DEQ also cited Rubenstein’s for accumulating asbestos-containing waste, as the subcontractors did not properly package and label the asbestos waste, which was disposed of in a garbage bin outside the school. No penalty was issued for this violation.

For the full story, go to KOHD.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/oregon-flooring-contractor/feed/ Mesothelioma claims the life of Colorado man http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/mesothelioma-claims-the-life-of-colorado-man/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/mesothelioma-claims-the-life-of-colorado-man/#comments Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:27:17 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5150 Delbert Griffith of Fort Morgan, Colorado died of mesothelioma on January 23 at the age of 71. Mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer that is virtually always caused by asbestos exposure. Millions of Americans suffered heavy occupational asbestos exposure for many decades. And while regulation of asbestos has dramatically increased, the toxic substance is still not banned from use in many applications.

Griffith worked for the Great Western Sugar Company, now known as the Western Sugar Company, from April 1, 1963 until his retirement on May 31, 2002. He was a member of the First Christian Church, Elks Lodge #1143, the Fort Morgan Saddle Club and the Paint Horse Association.

Funeral services were held at the First Christian Church in Fort Morgan on January 28, followed by interment at Memory Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Christian Church, the Fort Morgan Fire Department or the Fort Morgan Saddle Club.

For the full story, go to Fort Morgan Times.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/05/mesothelioma-claims-the-life-of-colorado-man/feed/ Maintenance worker alleges Philadelphia Housing Authority uses illegal asbestos procedures http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/maintenance-worker-alleges/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/maintenance-worker-alleges/#comments Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:13:25 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5154 Robert Smith is a carpenter who works for the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) in Pennsylvania. He and another PHA maintenance worker, Rudy Barbosa, worked to fix the leaky pipes in tenant Kyeeshah Wright’s wall back in September 2009. Asbestos pipe insulation was strewn about the kitchen floor, and the workers dumped the asbestos debris back into the hole in the wall they’d made to get to the pipes before sealing it up with new drywall and plaster. Smith took pictures with his cell phone as evidence.

Smith claims that PHA maintenance foreman Bill Emmitt routinely instructs workers to perform repair work without regard to asbestos. Plumbers with PHA have been told to moisten and rip asbestos insulation off heating and plumbing pipes, then leave the debris inside the walls or throw it in a dumpster. This is a violation of both federal and local laws.

Regulations mandate that asbestos handling and removal must be done by trained and licensed asbestos contractors. Asbestos debris has to be disposed of inside sealed bags and taken to a special landfill. These laws were put into place to protect the health of workers and of the public. Improper handling can cause asbestos fibers to become airborne. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious illnesses like mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer.

A PHA spokesman denied Smith’s allegations of illegal asbestos practices, claiming that Smith is a disgruntled employee who is unhappy with his pay. PHA sent an environmental consultant from USA Environmental Management to perform visual inspections of three apartments, giving them all a clean bill of health.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Philadelphia Health Department are investigating the situation, too. The Health Department’s Asbestos Control Unit sent an inspector to Wright’s basement, who declared it a danger zone. She took samples and put a warning sign on the door that says, “Danger. Asbestos Hazard. Do Not Enter.”

The EPA is launching an investigation after a reporter called to ask if USA Environmental Management’s visual inspection would be sufficient to determine whether an asbestos hazard exists. The EPA said that samples should have been wiped from the apartment, and some aggressive air testing may have been indicated. If the investigation determines that PHA ignored federal regulations, they could face fines and civil sanctions. If the investigation turns up and negligent, knowing or willful violations, criminal charges could be filed.

For the full story, go to Philadelphia Daily News.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/maintenance-worker-alleges/feed/ Quebecor World building needs asbestos removed before demolition http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/quebecor-world-building/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/quebecor-world-building/#comments Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:23:56 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5152 The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency approved the demolition of the Quebecor Building in Selma with a special provision. There is 5,225 square feet of non-friable asbestos used in flooring tile glue that needs to remain undisturbed or it needs to be removed. Seed America, which received the building as a donation from Quebecor, must get proper documentation from an asbestos inspector licensed in Illinois before a demolition permit can be issued. McCloughan Contractors has been hired as the demolition contractor.

For the full story, go to WJBD Radio.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/quebecor-world-building/feed/ Pastor blesses Catholic school before demolition work begins http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/pastor-blesses-catholic/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/pastor-blesses-catholic/#comments Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:13:12 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5155 Reverend Rich Perry led his congregation in blessing the St. Francis Xavier grade school building in Missoula, Montana with holy water before its demolition. The school was built in 1927, but it has been closed and shuttered since 2001 when students and teachers moved to more modern buildings across town.

The school building will first undergo asbestos abatement. Asbestos-containing materials must be removed before the building is demolished to avoid releasing the dangerous fibers in the air. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

Once the asbestos has been removed, work crews will determine what materials can be saved and recycled before the rest of the building comes down. Once the building is demolished, construction will begin on a new landscaped parking lot. Future plans include a new addition to remaining buildings.

For the full story, go to Missoulian.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/pastor-blesses-catholic/feed/ Iron Range mesothelioma study has 1,000 participants so far http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/iron-range-mesothelioma-study-2/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/iron-range-mesothelioma-study-2/#comments Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:52:46 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5102 Approximately 1,000 Iron Range miners and their spouses have already participated in screenings for the state-funded respiratory health study being conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota. The researchers state that they have half of the respondents they need, and they request that taconite miners and their spouses continue to respond to the recruitment letters that have been sent out. The study is looking into the connection between mining, taconite dust and serious respiratory illnesses like mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. It will take about 18 months to analyze the results of the respiratory study once they have collected all of the data.

For the full story, go to WDIO.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/04/iron-range-mesothelioma-study-2/feed/ Illinois county to spend over $100k to fix cafeteria car crash damage http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/illinois-county-to-spend/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/illinois-county-to-spend/#comments Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:51:23 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5103 It is going to cost Lake County, Illinois over $116,000 to repair the damage caused by a county employee who accidentally drove her car into the Government Center cafeteria on October 20. The 72-year-old woman 2008 Suzuki into the handicapped parking space in front of the cafeteria when she accidentally stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake, plowing through 50 feet of the cafeteria before the vehicle stopped.

Polet Construction was awarded the contract for the repair work, which will include cleanup of asbestos ceiling tiles that were damaged as a result of the crash. Asbestos is a toxic substance that must be removed in a regulated manner to protect public health and the health of the workers.

For the full story, go to Post-Tribune.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/illinois-county-to-spend/feed/ New York senior center gets new $2.1 million home http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/new-york-senior-center-gets-new-21-million-home/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/new-york-senior-center-gets-new-21-million-home/#comments Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:51:09 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5104 The Golden Age Club in Newfane, New York is moving into a bigger home. The $2.1 million Town Hall and Community Center is anticipated to open by mid-February after months of delays, including the discovery of more asbestos than was expected. Every room in the new complex will have its own thermostat, thanks to a solar system and geothermal heating and cooling system from Mitsubishi. The Golden Age Club, currently housed in the existing 50-year-old town hall building, will be moving into the new community center’s big community room, which can accommodate up to 210 people. The director of the Golden Age Club hopes to be able to hold a social day each week as well as a Wii exercise program for seniors.

For the full story, go to Union-Sun & Journal.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/new-york-senior-center-gets-new-21-million-home/feed/ Mesothelioma-causing asbestos was part of Frink America site cleanup http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/mesothelioma-causing-asbestos-was-part-of-frink/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/mesothelioma-causing-asbestos-was-part-of-frink/#comments Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:48:44 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5105 The former Frink America site in Clayton, New York has been declared clean and safe for the public by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Cleanup efforts included the removal of asbestos-contaminated buildings, contaminated soil and petroleum storage tanks. Asbestos is a hazardous substance that was commonly used in building materials. Exposure to asbestos can cause serious respiratory illnesses like mesothelioma.

Now that the cleanup is complete, the town hopes to market the property and get it back on the tax role. The location is ideal for redevelopment, and town officials are hopeful for its future use.

For the full story, go to News 10 Now.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/03/mesothelioma-causing-asbestos-was-part-of-frink/feed/ Asbestos work 70% complete at Texas A&M student center http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/02/asbestos-work-70-complete/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/02/asbestos-work-70-complete/#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 20:45:59 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5106 Construction work kept crews at Texas A&M busy while staff and students were on holiday break. The renovation of Memorial Student Center (MSC) was the most visible project that students noticed when they returned for classes. The MSC project is a priority, and it is coming along right on schedule. A progress report on December 11 stated that the project was also within budget.

About half of the demolition has been completed at the student center, with asbestos removal about 70% complete. Plumbing, mechanical and electrical work is still underway. The projected completion date for the project is March 30, 2012.

For the full story, go to The Battalion.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/02/asbestos-work-70-complete/feed/ Mesothelioma risk from asbestos release can be another effect of earthquake damage http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/02/mesothelioma-risk-from-asbestos-release/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/02/mesothelioma-risk-from-asbestos-release/#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 20:42:18 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5107 A 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California on the afternoon of January 9. There were no fatalities, but Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency on January 13 due to the extent of the damage done. Eureka was the city hardest hit by the earthquake, with $18 million in damages. The Bayshore Mall had about $6 million in damage done, though it remained closed for only a few days because it was structurally sound.

Older homes and businesses in Eureka did not fare as well as the mall did. Some structures started coming off their foundations, and some were red-tagged – which means that they are too dangerous to be inhabitable. Damage done to the Eureka Municipal Building  potentially exposed people to lead  paint and airborne asbestos, two toxic substances that were commonly used in older buildings and became exposed due to damage from the earthquake.

While asbestos is often considered safe as long as it remains intact in floor tiles, ceiling tiles, or as insulation, it becomes a danger as soon as it is disturbed – whether by renovations or by a natural disaster such as an earthquake, fire or severe storms. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to serious illnesses like mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer.

For the full story, go to The Lumberjack.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/03/02/mesothelioma-risk-from-asbestos-release/feed/ Sunset Bowl comes down after asbestos removal http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/28/sunset-bowl-comes-down/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/28/sunset-bowl-comes-down/#comments Sun, 28 Feb 2010 11:53:00 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5113 Sunset Bowl in Ballard, Washington closed down in 2008 after 51 years of business. Developers had decided to build a six-story mixed-use building in its place. Work crews began asbestos removal and cutting the power lines in mid-January. Once that work was done, the demolition began. The iconic bowling alley had kept its classic traditions intact until it closed, including roasted cashews at the bar for $1.25.

For the full story, go to KIRO Seattle.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/28/sunset-bowl-comes-down/feed/ Lex Villa torn down to make way for Carroll County justice center http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/lex-villa-torn/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/lex-villa-torn/#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 21:53:25 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5112 The Lex Villa Building in Carrollton, Georgia had its asbestos abatement completed by Pyramid Remedial Services on January 12. After that, Carroll County work crews began clearing glass and other salvageable materials from the building before demolition could start. Using county workers to perform the demolition helped to keep the costs down.

The building had to come down to make way for the Carroll County justice center project. The Courtyard Square Building was demolished last year to make way for the future justice center’s parking garage.

For the full story, go to Times-Georgian.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/lex-villa-torn/feed/ Evansville buys former Libs Candy store for arena project http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/evansville-buys-former/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/evansville-buys-former/#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 15:53:25 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5110 This could link to a story that hasn’t been published yet about the Downtown Arena.

Officials in Evansville, Indiana have agreed to buy the former Libs Candy store for $180,000 in order to make way for the Downtown arena project. It was the last building needed at the site of the future Downtown arena. Evansville has spent approximately $2.2 million to purchase the Main Street properties that are being demolished for the project, and the city has agreed to pay another $452,000 to help the previous owners of the properties move out.

Asbestos abatement and lead paint remediation had to take place before demolition could begin in mid-January. Historical pieces from the buildings were already removed for preservation purposes.

For the full story, go to Evansville Courier & Press.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/evansville-buys-former/feed/ Old Georgia church coming down for new senior center http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/old-georgia-church/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/old-georgia-church/#comments Sat, 27 Feb 2010 12:53:25 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5109 Demolition on the old Byne Church in Albany, Georgia began on January 20. Some of the buildings coming down were contaminated with asbestos and infested with termites. Once the demolition is complete, construction can begin on the new $9 million senior citizen complex that will be taking the old church’s place.

The Southwest Georgia (SOWEGA) Council on Aging has been looking for a new senior center for many years, as the current one has a leaky roof and does not have an adequate kitchen for the number of meals they need to serve. The council is planning to move all of their three offices and two senior centers into the new building complex.

For the full story, go to WALB.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/27/old-georgia-church/feed/ Asbestos removal would cost $800k for 132-year-old school building http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/asbestos-removal-would-cost/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/asbestos-removal-would-cost/#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 23:40:19 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5115 The old Cortland Elementary School in Ohio was purchased at auction last November for $10,000 by an investor who is trying to resell it. The building is 132 years old and contaminated with a large amount of asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used for insulation and fireproofing purposes and is still found in many public and private buildings, especially those built before 1980.  If asbestos fibers become airborne, they can be inhaled and cause serious illnesses like mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. Estimates place the cost of demolishing the school building at $1 million – $800,000 of which would cover the cost of asbestos removal, which must be done in an approved manner for safety.

For the full story, go to The Vindicator.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/asbestos-removal-would-cost/feed/ Depression-era nursing home building coming down in New Jersey http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/depression-era-nursing/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/depression-era-nursing/#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 21:06:44 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5118 Building 2 at the old Preakness Healthcare complex used to house residents of the county nursing home in Passaic County, New Jersey. It became obsolete when the new $90 million Preakness Healthcare Center opened last October. Now Building 2 has undergone asbestos removal in preparation for its demolition. The Depression-era building demolition will take between six and eight weeks to be completed.

The new health care center has marked improvements over the old facilities as far as security, space and climate control, but the costs of the yet unfinished project keep going higher. Ground was broken back in June 2006 with $87.5 million bonded to cover costs; $74.8 million has already been spent, and the work is not done. Over 70 change orders have been approved, adding over $5 million to the final price tag. Remaining residents from the older buildings will be moved to the new nursing home in the spring.

For the full story, go to North Jersey.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/depression-era-nursing/feed/ With mesothelioma-causing asbestos gone, Montana-Dakota Utilities building comes down http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/with-mesothelioma-causing/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/with-mesothelioma-causing/#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 19:40:42 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5114 The old Montana-Dakota Utilities building in Billings, Montana began demolition in January after asbestos remediation was completed. SBH Inc. was hired to perform the demolition. In its place, a new federal courthouse will be built. The courthouse project will cost $59.4 million.

The former Wells Fargo bank building was already taken down to make room for the new courthouse. Between the two buildings, a number of materials have been recycled: 1,072 tons of concrete and masonry, 67 tons of metal and 28 tons of other materials. The number is expected to increase as demolition work continues.

For the full story, go to Billings Gazette.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/with-mesothelioma-causing/feed/ Asbestos contamination could wreck Minneapolis property deal http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/asbestos-contamination-2/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/asbestos-contamination-2/#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:11:25 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5116 The City of Minneapolis was looking into buying 14 acres of land for a park along the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, having signed a $400,000 purchase agreement with the Scherer Lumber Yard. But an environmental study done in October discovered elevated levels of lead and asbestos on part of the property, and further investigation was deemed necessary before the land could be developed. The city has the option of terminating the deal due to these findings, but park officials want to test soil from the site themselves before making any decisions. They have cleaned up other sites in order to turn them into parks before.

For the full story, go to KSTP.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/asbestos-contamination-2/feed/ Texas gym was a safety hazard http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/texas-gym-was-a-safety-hazard/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/texas-gym-was-a-safety-hazard/#comments Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:10:18 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5117 The Hilliard Gym in Bay City, Texas was a serious health hazard near the Head Start playground. A code enforcement officer informed the Bay City Independent School District (ISD) about a resident complaint concerning the safety hazard posed by the structurally unsafe gym. The school district was told that the building would need to be brought up to code or demolished. CAM Environmental Services provided project oversight and air quality monitoring while Inland Environmental Inc. started the demolition process during the third week of January.

The gym building was found to contain category II non-friable asbestos tiles and siding, which required warning signage and removal by certified specialists. Category II asbestos-containing materials are defined as those that cannot be pulverized, crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure, and may be left in place if there is a low probability that it will be pulverized, crumbled or reduced to powder during demolition.

For the full story, go to The Bay City Tribune.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/26/texas-gym-was-a-safety-hazard/feed/ Tear in the protective plastic during VBC asbestos work http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/tear-in-the-protective-plastic-during-vbc-asbestos-work/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/tear-in-the-protective-plastic-during-vbc-asbestos-work/#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:57:53 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5127 The Von Braun Center (VBC) in Alabama has been undergoing construction work. Visitors to a Havoc game or the boat show in mid-January may not have noticed the warning signs concerning asbestos. They may not have noticed, either, that there was a tear in the protective plastic barrier adjacent to an open air conditioning vent.

VBC officials could not be reached for comment, but the hole has since been fixed. Asbestos is a toxic substance that must be removed under strict regulations. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma and other serious respiratory illnesses.

For the full story, go to WAAYTV.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/tear-in-the-protective-plastic-during-vbc-asbestos-work/feed/ Former newspaper building getting long-awaited renovations http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/former-newspaper-building-getting-long-awaited-renovations/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/former-newspaper-building-getting-long-awaited-renovations/#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:55:52 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5119 The Clay County Board of Supervisors in Mississippi bought the former Daily Times Leader building, and the county looks forward to putting it to good use. District 4 needs a new voting precinct to replace the Clay County Courthouse location, but extensive renovations will be required before the building will be ready for the November elections.

The former newspaper building needs a new roof, which will cost about $30,000 to replace. Certified asbestos contractors will also need to be hired to remove asbestos-containing ceiling tiles. The leaky roof caused other problems, including mold growth and rotten walls and carpeting that will cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 to repair. There are no structural problems with the building, the oldest parts of which were built between 1885 and 1890.

For the full story, go to The Dispatch.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/former-newspaper-building-getting-long-awaited-renovations/feed/ Elmira armory demolition begins http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/elmira-armory-demolition-begins/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/elmira-armory-demolition-begins/#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:54:39 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5120 EPIC Contracting has been hired for just over $1 million to perform the demolition of the Armory building and drill hall in Elmira, New York. Work began with asbestos abatement on January 19, with demolition to follow in mid-to-late February. Materials will also be salvaged during the demolition process, including architectural stones, bricks and the flagpole; these items will be saved for future projects. Framing lumber will also be salvaged from the buildings, helping to keep costs down for the demolition.

For the full story, go to OrdOh.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/elmira-armory-demolition-begins/feed/ Fire in Portland, Maine had obstacles for firefighters http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/fire-in-portland/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/fire-in-portland/#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:53:35 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5121 On the evening of January 14, firefighters in Portland, Maine battled a blaze across the street from Joe’s Smoke Shop. Twenty-five firefighters managed to get the fire under control in 25 minutes, but they had to spend the rest of the night cleaning up. The fire started on the first floor, with smoke filling all three floors. Three ladder trucks helped firefighters get to the roof.

The building was being renovated at the time of the fire, and asbestos abatement had begun just two days prior. This made it difficult for fire crews to get around inside the building, as there was a lot of equipment and garbage in the way. Thankfully, there were no injuries.

For the full story, go to WCSH6.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/fire-in-portland/feed/ Mark Twain’s birthplace temporarily closed for renovations http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/mark-twains-birthplace/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/mark-twains-birthplace/#comments Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:46:50 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=5122 Florida, Missouri is the home of the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site. The museum was closed in mid-January while repairs were done to the leaky roof and ceiling, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Contractors were brought in to assess the damage, perform the repairs and remove asbestos. The historic site includes the cabin where author Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, was born. The museum contains the cabin along with some exhibits and some of the author’s personal belongings.

For the full story, go to KOAM TV.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/25/mark-twains-birthplace/feed/ Neighbors of mesothelioma patient identified as mystery lawn cutters http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/24/neighbors-of-mesothelioma/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/24/neighbors-of-mesothelioma/#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:38:50 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=4946 Harry Adler of Madeira, Ohio was diagnosed with mesothelioma during the spring of 2009. Mesothelioma is a rare but serious form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Adler worked with asbestos when he served with the U.S. Navy as a pipefitter during the 1950s and 1960s; the toxic substance asbestos was commonly used as pipe insulation aboard U.S. Navy ships for many years.

Adler and his wife travelled to three different states just to get his mesothelioma diagnosis after he became ill. He also underwent surgery to have the cancer removed. Each time he returned home, he found that his lawn had been cut and trimmed in his absence. No one came forward to admit they had cut his lawn, so Adler had to ask around. He discovered that his next door neighbor David Bodnar had been cutting his lawn, and that his other neighbor Chris DeBow had been cutting it when David was out of town.

The neighbors wanted to do something to help the Adlers when they learned that Harry had been diagnosed with cancer. Bodnar said that cutting the lawn was a simple way to help, and that he was just doing what the Bible said to do – to love our neighbors as ourselves.

For the full story, go to Cincinatti.com.

]]> http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/24/neighbors-of-mesothelioma/feed/ Mesothelioma widow spends time as health care volunteer http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/24/mesothelioma-widow-spends/ http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/2010/02/24/mesothelioma-widow-spends/#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:38:39 +0000 Mesothelioma News http://www.mesotheliomanews.com/?p=4945 Geraldine Parker of Foxboro, Massachusetts lost her husband Pete to mesothelioma over 25 years ago. Pete was 57 years old when he died of the asbestos-related cancer. Geraldine is now 79 years old, and she has volunteered over 2,000 hours as a health care volunteer at the former Southwood Hospital and at Caritas Foxboro since after her surgery for colon cancer five years ago. She escorts breast scan patients from the waiting area at Caritas Foxboro, where she underwent chemotherapy, and tries to put their mind at ease. Geraldine also knits hats for newborns and sweaters for the Knits for Kids program.  

For the full story, go to Foxboro Reporter.

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