Some may know that Grand Island sits just across the river from 100 years of heavy industry in Tonawanda NY. At their August 25th evening meeting, G I Rotarians got an update on a long-term Environmental Health Study for WNY, that UB has been running, centered on possible ill effects from Tonawanda Coke operations. Prof. T. Milillo provided an informative talk, in a unique setting. During her talk, thru the Launch Club’s picture windows we easily see the remains of Tonawanda Coke’s coal unloading dock! Her talk included one very positive result for Grand Island: careful study of ground samples on both sides of the river showed unusual ground contamination at a G I school – but not from Tonawanda Coke operation! The problem was quickly identified and corrected by the Grand Island school system with help from UB scientists and DEC.
