Carcinogen spreads through New Jersey groundwater

12/01/11 10:22 AM

By Chandler Schlegel/ Pony Post cschlegel@smu.edu A small New Jersey newspaper revealed that hexavalent chromium, also known as carcinogen, is flowing through the groundwater in Garfield, N.J. This toxic chemical is putting hundreds of people at risk. This isn’t the chemical’s first appearance in groundwater. Some people might remember the infamous story Erin Brokovich broke in Hinkley, Calif. In that situation, hexavalent chromium was seeping through basement walls in the area. The chemical resurfaced in Garfield after a three tons leaked from a local electroplating plant in 1983. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection allowed the factory to stop cleaning after 30 percent of the substance had been removed. As a result of this incident 30...

Bishop Arts District kicks off the Christmas season

12/01/11 10:17 AM

By Grace Roberts/ Big D Blog groberts@smu.edu As the 25-day countdown begins, the Bishop Arts District is kicking off the month of December with a three-day celebration, the 16th Annual Jingle Bells on Bishop—this year themed, “The Spirit of Christmas’ Past.” Bring your Christmas wish list as you peruse the rows of boutiques, meanwhile supporting the local merchants and artists.  Carolers, bands, dancers and more will also be strolling along Bishop Avenue for some holiday-themed entertainment.  Kids can also have their picture taken with Mr. Clause himself. If you get tired of all the fun, music and shopping, grab a snack or dinner from a street vendor or a Bishops Avenue restaurant. The “wine walk” kicks of the event on...