Matthews Center, 2318 S. 29th Ave., Minneapolis: Attend a free community education workshop to find out what toxic chemicals we're exposed to in South Minneapolis. The Centers for Public Health Education and Outreach at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and several neighborhood-based organizations are co-sponsoring this event.

Fifth and Last Session, Industrial Activity as toxicant source:
--Detailed information about specific toxicants that are sourced from industrial/commercial/disposal operations including incineration. Also discussed: workplace exposures and releases (spills, polluted sites, air and water discharges) that constitute a risk to the individual or community.
--Toxins from industrial activities such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), arsenic, heavy metals, and persistent bioaccumulative toxins (PBTs),
--Characteristics of industrial toxins (environmental behavior)
--What individuals/community can do to reduce industrial toxins and their health impacts (exposure and risk).

The workshop will be taught by Dr. William Toscano, Chair of the Environmental Health Sciences division of the University of Minnesota School of Public Health. Mark Snyder, pollution prevention specialist for the MPCA, will discuss toxic chemical waste management and emissions trends for facilities located in south and southeast Minneapolis neighborhoods using Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) data, MPCA's Air Toxics Emissions Inventory and other tools available to the public. Mark will also discuss local examples of where communities have worked with industrial and manufacturing facilities in their neighborhoods to reduce waste and emissions.

There will be lots of opportunity to ask questions and discuss the information presented. Free activities for children ages 4-10 provided by South Minneapolis YMCA.

For more information, please contact Carol at: carolgwood@mn.rr.com; 612.724-8430