WASHINGTON - March 23 - -- Sound Truths and Exxon Myths -- Alaskans Converge on DC With Dramatic New Findings, Demand Congressional Action for Regulatory Reform

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

WHEN: Media briefing: Wednesday March 24th, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time

WHERE: National Press Club (Zenger Room), 529 14th Street NW, 13th Floor, Washington D.C.

Media Tele-Conference Call:

Wednesday, March 24th at 1 p.m. (Eastern 10 a.m.)

Pacific US/Canada Dial-In: 877-575-3310

Int'l/Local Dial-In: 706-679-3789

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

WHY: The Exxon Valdez was the largest and most devastating oil spill in U.S. history, with long-term damages that will linger for decades. Exxon has failed to meet its promise of cleanup and restoration or to settle with over 30,000 residents. From studies following the Exxon Valdez spill, scientists have found that oil at least 1000 times more toxic than previously thought. New information reveals that hundreds if not thousands of oil spill cleanup workers are suffering debilitating illnesses as a result of their exposure to highly toxic oil and solvent mixtures. Presenters will present evidence that the unanticipated long-term impacts of the oil spill dictate that Exxon pay the additional $100 million "Re-opener for Unknown Injury," as required by the 1991 legal settlement, and call on Congress to respond with more stringent policies.

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

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

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