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What was left of Bliss Residence Hall after a Westinghouse PCB transformer exploded on Dec. 29, 1991, spreading dioxins and PCBs through out a structure where 200 young women lived. Fortunately they were away on winter break at the time. This photo was taken some time in 1992. The building was re-occupied after a partial cleanup. Photo by Eric Francis. For image of dorms the way they look today, click here. For photo tour of New Paltz, click here.

SUNY New Paltz PCBs - and Beyond


On Dec. 29, 1991, a car accident caused an electrical malfunction that spread supertoxins on the State College campus in New Paltz, NY (locally known as SUNY New Paltz). Planet Waves editor Eric Francis covered the incident from the first day, documenting many problems with testing, cleanup, project engineering and safety theories. PCBs and dioxin were found on the campus, including in dormitories, chemicals which are associated with many persistent and multigenerational health concerns. The articles below document the situation. For more information, you may write to: info@planetwaves.net.

This collection includes Conspiracy of Silence, the "final report" in Sierra that looks at the century-long history of this annoying supertoxin. New Paltz is the campus article heard round the world.

Eric's Recent Articles on New Paltz:

Toxins Special Edition of One in a Million  |  From Blacksburg to NP

Monday Morning Newsletter  |  There's Nothing You Can Do  |  Growing Up


2004 - Independent Tests

New Paltz Photo Tour  |  SUNY Dorm Tests Toxic

One in a Million  |   Two in a Million

Letter to Kevin Cahill  |  Conspiracy of Silence

Alternate Version of "Conspiracy of Silence"

The Toxic Casino  |  New Paltz PCBs: Vol. 11

PolySciFi 451


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