Keene Equinox

Lead paint a 'health hazard' at playground in '93

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Elliot Hall has always had a special history with children.

For over 70 years the building, known as Elliot City Hospital and then Elliot Community Hospital, welcomed babies into the world.

In 1973 Keene State College acquired the building, naming it Elliot Hall.

'No known cases' of lead poisoning at KSC child care center

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

In the summer of 2007, Keene State College released information of elevated lead levels in outdoor paint in and around the Elliot Hall's Child Development Center (CDC).

Less than two months later, a Harvard Medical School official spoke at KSC's 2007 Sidore Lecture on childhood lead poisoning.

Encapsulation is short-term solution to lead-based paint contamination

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Encapsulation of lead-based paint is a cost-effective short-term solution, but over time can end up costing more than the abatement of lead paint.

According to Frank Ronan, business manager of EnviroVantage, an environmental clean-up company, encapsulation only involves covering up lead paint, not removing it fully.

Recent state legislation aims to protect children from lead poisoning

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The amount of lead in childrens' blood required to prompt a health inspection was reduced by half with new state legislation, effective Jan. 1, 2008.

New Hampshire Senate Bill 176 amends the Lead Paint Prevention and Control law, by creating tougher state oversight and protection of children

New Hampshire Governor John Lynch (D) signed Senate Bill 176 on July 12, 2007.

Expectations, procedures vary for dealing with different lead-soil concentrations

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Fifteen years after lead toxins were found in the children's playground soil at Keene State College, 20 percent of that same ground still tests over state and federal safety limits, according to an Equinox investigation.

On Sept. 25, 2007, The Equinox collected 10 soil samples from the Child Development Center playground at KSC.

No documentation found for removal of contaminated soil

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

While lead-based paint chips are one way for children to get lead poisoning, another way is by lead contaminated soil in areas such as playgrounds.

"Soil is a huge issue," said Katie Lajoie, a New Hampshire public health nurse, at a Keene State College lecture focusing on lead poisoning in children in October 2007.

Test reveal Lead located elsewhere on campus

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When 17 Keene State College students signed up to take "Investigating Environmental Problems" last fall, they weren't expecting to be digging in dirt or scraping paint chips from railings, windows or buildings.

Yet those efforts resulted in providing data on the health of many campus buildings and facilities when it comes to lead paint, a known environmental and public health hazard.

With no ocean in sight, Keene area offers several beaches of its own

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

In mid-April Keene State College students got a taste of summer, with temperatures rising into the 80s and the sunshine lighting up Appian Way.

Some might call it beach weather, and as many KSC students are probably aware, the seacoast is on the opposite side of the state.

Pondside 3 awarded for energy efficiency

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Pondside III residents can take pride in their "living and learning" dormitory which received the KSC Dorm Awarded LEED Green Building Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

This residence hall was awarded because of its rating in design and construction as the greenest and most energy efficient on campus.

College would pay more than one third of expo center cost

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

An anticipated $41 million will be invested in the proposed expo center which could begin construction in two years, according to Keene State College's vice president for finance and planning.

Jay Kahn, who presented the city council May 1 with an expo center feasibility study, said the college itself would commit around $15 million to the project.

NH Rep. holds roundtable discussion at Keene State

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The New Hampshire Small Business Development Center held a roundtable discussion with NH Congressman Paul Hodes for small business owners in the L.P. Young Student Center on Monday April 28, 2008.

Hodes spoke to about 15 people on the struggles facing small businesses in the economy today.

KSC students share experiences of Nicaragua trip

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Many prefer Florida or Mexico for spring break destinations but for a group of 10 sociology and health science students, their 2008 spring break was the culminating point of their course "Sociology of Nicaragua."

They presented their experiences and stories during their week-long trip in Nicaragua to an audience of about 50 people on April 30, 2008.

O'Bryant, captains lead Owls into season

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

They were undefeated in conference play with a record of 6-0, and an overall record of 25-15 in the NCAA, last year was a great year, but this year has hopes and determination of being that much better. Keene State College's women's volleyball team is good.

KSC baseball captures first regular season LEC title in school history

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

With two victories over Rhode Island College on May 4, the Keene State College baseball team made history. For the first time since the team joined the Little East Conference, KSC won the regular season division title outright.

"It's big but this isn't our ultimate goal right now," said baseball coach Ken Howe.

Clock runs out on editor

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As is the case with everything in life, especially in sports, all good things must come to an end, and for me my time as sports editor is up. There will be no fourth-quarter comeback or Michael Jordan type of retirement. This is the real deal, and therefore it's time to say goodbye.

Chalk it up

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Student Government held their annual Chalk Talk event last Thursday May 1, 2008 which featured different food from across the country.

Feedback from last year's Chalk Talk shaped the planning for this year.

Student Body President Sarah DeLisle said last year's T-shirt shortage caused them to buy about 300 more.

First annual carnival brings fun to campus, despite gloomy weather

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Despite wet and cold conditions many students attended the first annual KSCarnival sponsored by Student Government Friday May 2, 2008.

The idea for a carnival began a year-and-a-half ago, according to Dan Saucier, student government vice president. He said they never had the money to do it until this year because they saved money by not participating in Winter Weekend with Fire & Ice.

KSC health and wellness instructor does more than teach

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Lauren Reilert is living life to the fullest. She has visited multiple states and countries, is an experienced yoga trainer, an adjunct teacher for Keene State College, a certified chef, singer songwriter, artist, agriculturalist, engaged ... and she's 23.

A complete movie 'blast-o-rama' is headed our way this summer season

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

When you really think about it, the blast-o-rama that is the summer movie season continues to be the single outlet during the year in which film studios actually give what the general audience wants. Lucky for you, the line up this season should sway you away from the waves.

'Kaddish' is here, and look at what it has brought to KSC

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The walls of the Main Theater in the Redfern Arts Center echoed the triumphant phrase "I am here, and look who is with me" as a group of illustrious choir singers and musicians boomed with passion and life on Saturday night, May 3. "Kaddish," a musical production by composer Lawrence Seigel, premiered at 8 p.

'Summertime and the livin's easy' with great tunes

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

1. 40 oz. to Freedom (1992)- Sublime It is nearly impossible for Sublime's first released album, "40.oz.," to ever fail you. With Long Beach dubs and "funky fresh" lyrics, this 22-track album contains much more than just decent music. Relaxed and rowdy, reggae mixed with rock, autobiographical and fictitious tale, "40 oz.

The 'Man' meets more than the 'Eye' at the KSC's annual student film festival

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The best of the Keene State College filmmakers came to show off the work they slaved over for the past year at the KSC Film Festival in the Mabel Brown Room on Saturday, May 3, 2008. The students filmmakers came from all different levels of the film department, from the very basic classes to the most advanced.

'4 Months' may be a lot longer than one would assume

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Although a very artistic film, "4 Months, 3 Weeks, and 2 Days" is a hard film to recommend due to its unconventional narrative style, which could jar most viewers. Winner of the Palme D'Or at last year's Cannes Film Festival, this Romanian film takes place in the 1980s and follows Otilia (Anamaria Marinca) as she tries to get her college roommate, Gabita (Laura Vasiliu), an abortion, an illegal operation at the time.

Best Slice of Pizza: Athens

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

For the best slice of pizza in Keene the students of Keene State College say you have to go to Athens Pizza House.

Athens is an old style pizza joint. With no waiters or waitresses, you have to go up to the front and order and pick it up when it's done.

Best Place to Watch the Game: Kali's

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Every sports fan knows the drill. The game is on. Let's go to Kali's.

With walls coated with sports paraphernalia and a big flat screen television on each wall, Kali's is a prime location to grab a beer and watch your favorite team.

"We are the only other sports bar in the area besides McCues," said Ashlie Chaput, Kali's bartender and manager.

Best Breakfast: The Pub

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Two freshly cooked eggs with home fries and toast for about a dollar� now that's a breakfast anyone can appreciate.

The Pub, located right next to Keene State College on the corner of Winchester Street and Ralston Street, is a place where you can eat a quality breakfast without breaking the bank, according to owner Michael Blastos.

Best Live Music: Armadillos

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The students of Keene State College have spoken; Armadillos Burritos is the best place to go for live music.

Armadillos Burritos is located on Main Street and isn't too far of a walk from campus. The restaurant has become a cheap place for students to go and grab a burrito for cheap, as the most expensive item is around seven dollars.

Best Bar: Lab' N Lager

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Relatively new to the Keene scene, Lab' N Lager is not your average bar. Referred to as a restaurant and lounge by owner Doni Ash, Lab' N Lager offers more than what you see on tap.

"We have a caring, friendly staff that is professional and experienced and an atmosphere that is clean, comfortable, safe and fun," said Ash.

Best Cup of Coffee: Brewbakers

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

With almost all organic and rainforest friendly beans for their coffee, it is no wonder Keene State College students think Brewbakers has the best cup of coffee.

"Number one, we have excellent coffee. We get our beans from several roasters all over the world," said owner Ray Graffin.

Lead discovered near Elliot Hall is no shock

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

On July 13, 2007, Keene State College commissioned a professional industrial hygiene service, Covino Environmental Associates Inc., to analyze soil samples taken from around the Elliot Center for lead content.

The study revealed that in and around the area used by the Child Development Center for their playground registered between 124.

Looking forward to another semester at KSC

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

It's hard to not sound cliché when the end of an academic year comes up as a topic.

Somehow at every meal, in every class and on every walk, a person feels that they must mention that in a matter of days we'll all be packing up our rooms, that some people will be graduating and that others will be leaving for other schools.

Making the most of your college career is all about getting involved in your local community

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Four years has never gone by so fast. I never thought the time would come where I would be writing a farewell piece for the Equinox a week before my graduation from Keene State College. I also never thought I would be jealous of my younger friends who get the chance to come back to school for another year or two.

A clearer understanding of the realities of Islam

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Though Islam has been misunderstood for many years, the dislike toward it has been on the increase since the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the World Trade Center. Perhaps the most amazing aspect of American society is its lack of concern over the ignorance displayed-television, movies, music, politicians and even teachers promote racism by condoning and exemplifying it.

The trick to surviving between two worlds

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Being a journalism student is staying up until some odd hour in the morning - while being sick - in order to get an article done because you have classes and work the next day. Being a journalism student is scaring your roommates when you're on deadline by excessive swearing and throwing temper tantrums.

How many more soldiers have to die in Iraq?

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

4,063 is the number of failures our government has produced during the span of the War on Terror.

As of May 3, 2008, over 4,000 fine American men and women died for a cause that most of them did not believe in. I know that it is just a matter of time before my own family will be affected by the loss of a loved one serving in the Middle East.

May 1, 1990: the shocking death that started a sensation in N.H.

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Like most insurance agents, Greg Smart's work day on May 1, 1990 stretched past 5 p.m., what with clients to call or counsel, paperwork to file or forms to complete. He pulled into his driveway at 4E Misty Morning Drive in Derry, N.H.

He unlocked his front door to the condo he shared with his wife of less than a year, Pam.

Family of Greg Smart must deal with the weight of tragedy

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

The one person who would know the true tragedy of the Pam Smart murder trial can't say anything.

He won't be able to tell us about his reaction the night he came home from work and was shot in the head. He can't talk about his innocence in relation to the severity of the crime committed on him, and never will we hear from Greg Smart that this whole thing started when a young marriage began to fall apart.

Prison a 'sentence without hope' for Pam Smart

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Since March 22, 1991, prisoner 93GO456 has never seen the view beyond prison walls.

She has never seen hybrid cars or ipods. She has not voted in the last four elections. She has not blown out birthday candles or unwrapped Christmas presents under her family tree in almost 16 years.

'Media circus' atmosphere aggravated case

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Sex, lies, murder and heavy metal music were all pieces feeding a media frenzy in the Pam Smart case.

In the early 1990s the Pam Smart murder case was all consuming in the local and national media. The case was scrutinized and tried on the front pages of newspapers in New Hampshire, the New England region and beyond.

The Ghost of Dr. Sam

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

On July 4, 1954 the pregnant wife of Cleveland Osteopath Dr. Sam Sheppard was found dead in her bedroom, stabbed more than 24 times.

The brutal murder of Marilyn Sheppard rocked the sleepy suburb of Bay View, Ohio and soon became the obsession of the media, the people of Cleveland and the rest of the United States.

Often overlooked, Fowler caught up in mix

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

For Raymond Fowler May 1, 1990 was supposed to be an easy ride to Misty Morning Drive for some free stuff.

This would not have been Fowler's first endeavor at burglary, if he had actually gone through with it, but plans were twisted and someone was left dead.

Driver, remorseful, set on parole in 2005

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Vance Lattime, Jr. took full blame for supplying the murder weapon and the getaway car for the murder of Gregory Smart more than 15 years ago.

In May of 1990, Lattime openly contracted with Bill Flynn to go along and help him cold bloodedly kill Pamela Smart's husband, Greg Smart.

The tapes that convicted Smart: Cecelia Pierce's role

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Photos from the time period show a plump girl, usually disheveled with clothes that don't quite fit and aren't quite cool enough-with a look of yearning, always the yearning to belong, to be part of that which passes for high school cool.

Her downcast eyes and slumped shoulders made her a perfect candidate for Pamela Smart's self-esteem class, Project Self-Esteem.

From new kid on the block to trigger-man

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Bill Flynn was the new kid on the block. He, his mother Elaine, and two brothers moved to Seabrook, N.H. from sunny California.

They moved to New England to start a new life, a life that was all the way across the country from his father's, whose life all too suddenly came to an end.

Aspiring 'hit man' had a history of violence

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

From the witness stand, Patrick Randall announced his life ambition was to be a "professional hit man," according to many key players in the trial. We have heard the story of Pam Smart, but how much have we been told about the four teens that surround the actual murder?

Throughout the journey to find the truth behind the Smart murder, there have been many roadblocks.

The interview of a lifetime: Spending a day behind bars at Bedford Hills Correctional Facilty

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

In the gray pre-dawn, two black SUVs with tinted windows rolled out of Elliot Hall's parking lot, bound for a maximum security prison three states away. They were ready to visit Pam Smart.

All 12 Keene State College students were equipped with the prison's regulations, wearing nondescript shirts or sports jerseys and holding the only two things visitors take to prison - a photo id and either a roll of quarters or dollar bills.

Arguments made for jury misconduct at trial

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Fifteen years ago Pam Smart's murder trial, which began on March 4, 1991, rocked a small New Hampshire community and sent the nation reeling. As details of the plot to kill her husband, his execution style shooting and Smart's affair with the 16-year-old trigger-man unfolded; media from around the globe converged upon the small Exeter courtroom with a gold-rush like abandon.

After 15 years, appeals process continues on

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

If Pam Smart's case was like any usual crime story, it would begin with the conspiracy, climax with the murder, and conclude with her conviction. Fifteen years after she was found guilty, the story still continues as she goes through a slew of high profile lawyers and strategies in her appeals to go free.

Executive Council weighs Pam Smart's appeal

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

It only took a few minutes for the Executive Council to determine the fate of Pam Smart by unanimously denying her request for a pardon hearing, but the cards were stacked against her long before the hearing in Concord on the afternoon July 13, 2005.

"A pardon is unusual," said New Hampshire Attorney General Kelly Ayotte.

N.H. pardon process a complex, unique path

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Since 1990, 224 pardons have been submitted in the state of New Hampshire, but only three have been accepted, and Pam Smart was not one of them.

Smart earned a life sentence without parole for her role in masterminding the murder of her husband Greg Smart.