2025
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David Henderson - April 2025
At left: David Henderson.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Buffalo District Honors the Life and Legacy of David W. HendersonBuffalo, NY – April 7, 2025 – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District, flew the Corps of Engineers flag at half-staff on April 7 to honor the life and legacy of David W. Henderson, a long-time resident of Grand Island, NY, and a dedicated public servant whose 43 ½ year career with the Corps—and proud service as a U.S. Army veteran—left a lasting impact on the District and the Great Lakes region.
Mr. Henderson began his service to the nation in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1962. He went on to continue his commitment to public service with the Corps of Engineers. As the captain of the Derrick Boat McCauley, he provided outstanding leadership and technical expertise, ensuring the successful completion of critical maintenance and construction projects on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. These efforts not only supported the regional economy by keeping key navigation routes open, but also helped ensure that residents and visitors could safely enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Great Lakes.
Mr. Henderson’s service reflected a proud family tradition. His father worked for the Corps of Engineers in Panama, and his son, Paul, also worked for the Corps for a number of years. Paul passed away three years ago.
Known for his mentorship and dedication, Mr. Henderson guided and influenced generations of Corps professionals. His deep technical knowledge, humility, and unwavering commitment to mission left a profound and enduring mark on the Buffalo District and the communities we serve.
Mr. Henderson passed away on March 19, 2025, just three weeks after the loss of his beloved wife, Judith. During the remembrance ceremony, his daughters—Terri Henderson, Mary Goris, and Beth Henderson—were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Buffalo District Chief of Engineering and Construction, David Conboy. The certificate recognized Mr. Henderson’s lifetime of service and his extraordinary contributions to the Corps and the communities it serves. Mr. Henderson’s granddaughters Amanda Kusmanski and Heather Goris, and great grandson Hayes Slowich also attended the ceremony. David W. Henderson’s legacy of service, leadership, and excellence will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and colleagues.
Carlin Hartman - April 2025
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 - Written by School Superintendent Brian Graham.
From Viking Legend to Gator Glory!
Grand Island High School's own Carlin Hartman (Class of 1990) has just added another monumental chapter to his already legendary career—Associate Head Coach of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball National Champions, the Florida Gators! Last night, the Gators secured a nail-biting 65–63 victory over the University of Houston Cougars, and Carlin was right there on the sidelines, doing what he’s always done—leading, inspiring, and winning.
Carlin's journey began right here at Grand Island Senior High, where he earned five varsity letters, set school records in points (1,513), rebounds (787), and blocks (221), and was named a McDonald’s All-American in 1990. He later took his talents to Tulane University, racking up accolades and tournament appearances, and has spent 25 years as a respected college coach at programs like Oklahoma, Columbia, and now Florida.
On April 25, 2025, we will proudly induct Carlin into the Grand Island High School Distinguished Wall of Fame—a fitting honor for a Viking who never stopped climbing. Let’s give it up for Coach Carlin Hartman—a true Grand Island icon and now a National Champion!
Authors Dr. John Galt Robinson & Michael L. Hawley - March 2025
John Galt Robinson was raised on Grand Island, New York, just a few miles upstream from majestic Niagara Falls. His love of reading was handed down from his father who named him after the hero of Ayn Rand’s Epic, Atlas Shrugged. Growing up, John enjoyed sailing with his family. Additionally, he raced his own sailboat and crewed for other sailors on Lake Erie and the Niagara River. During high school, he competed in football, swimming and lacrosse.
John began attending college at Georgia Tech as part of the Navy ROTC program. He finished his undergraduate degree at University at Buffalo in Sports Medicine and began a career as an Athletic Trainer after an ankle fracture medically disqualified him from military service. After earning his Masters degree, John and his family relocated to Middle Tennessee where he continued working as an athletic trainer providing care for several high school athletic programs. A few years later, he took a big risk, and enrolled in medical school at East Tennessee State University. After earning his medical degree, John and his family moved to Columbia, South Carolina where he began residency in Emergency Medicine. They continue to live there today where John practices in a large regional hospital emergency department.
John still sails and is also an avid fitness enthusiast having competed in triathlons of all lengths including Ironman and Half Ironman. Reading continues to be a passion. John enjoys thriller/suspense novels along with historical fiction and biographies. His favorite authors are Tom Clancy, Vince Flynn, Clive Cussler, Jack Carr, Ryan Steck and Brad Thor.
Hello, my name is Michael Hawley. I have a passion for research and story telling, which has ultimately led to writing both nonfiction and fiction. I also love to give interviews and lectures on my latest discoveries. I hold a Master's degree in science (invertebrate paleontology) and secondary science education at the State University of New York, College of Buffalo, and a Bachelor's degree in geology and geophysics at Michigan State University. I am a commander and naval aviator in the U.S. Navy (retired), and am currently enjoying a career in secondary science education. In my other life, I am a sixth degree black belt in aikido and black belt in judo. My wife and I also have six kids.
Join the authors for a Meet & Greet, Speaking & Book Signing on Saturday, April 26th at 10:00 a.m. at Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road.
Alice Gerard Artist - January 2025
'Sun Moon Stars' is a 3D art exhibit, created by Alice Gerard, that is on exhibit at the Grand Island Memorial Library, 1715 Bedell R,oad through the month of January. The three main themes of the exhibit are flowers that look skyward to the sun, doodles that represent limitless imagination, and faces that represent the masks that we wear.
Eagle Scout Awardee Honored - January 2025
The Grand Island Board of Education proudly recognized Luke Gworek for his remarkable achievement in earning his Eagle Scout Award! As part of his journey, Luke spearheaded the restoration and display of the historic Town Hall cupola, a project that reflects his dedication, craftsmanship, and commitment to preserving our town’s heritage. This beautiful cupola now stands as a permanent landmark in front of Town Hall, thanks to Luke’s leadership, vision, and hard work. His efforts not only highlight the importance of community service but also inspire others to contribute positively to our shared spaces. Thank you, Luke, for your passion and service! Your project will stand as a reminder of the power of dedication and teamwork for generations to come. Join us in congratulating Luke on this well-deserved recognition and his Eagle Scout achievement!
G.I. Race Teams attend the 2024 P.R.I. show in Indianapolis - January 2025
