Tax Assistance

Students at the Rutgers Law School in Camden are part of the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program. Those needing help filling out tax forms can take advantage of this program:

The Rutgers–Camden law school VITA program is offered on the Rutgers–Camden Campus on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:30 to 7 p.m. through April 8, and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon on Feb. 21, Feb. 28, March 7, March 21, and March 28. Each session will be held in West Conference Room A on the lower level of the Campus Center, located on Third Street, between Cooper Street and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge on the Rutgers–Camden Campus.

This for federal and New Jersey state forms. In 2008 students help over 400 people with their tax forms which led to a total of over $400,000 in returns. More information available here.

Rutgers Camden Closed Tomorrow

The Camden campus of Rutgers will be closed tomorrow (Monday, March 2nd) due to an expected snow storm.

PATCO History

PATCO is celebrating it's 40th anniversary this year. There is a slide show on www.ridepatco.org if you would like to see how some of the stations and railways looked in earlier years. On the same website you can register to win ten free trips on PATCO. No word on whether or not there will be cake.

Pinelands Birding and Wildlife Trails

In the Delaware Valley, we are lucky to be located close to the unique Pine Barrens of South Jersey. A place where one can find birds, reptiles and plants that do not exist anywhere else in the state and in very few places in the country lies just a short drive from the area. If you have already explored some of these places, or are even just interested in taking part in the creation of mapping and sharing information about these places, then keep Tuesday, March 3rd free.

The New Jersey Birding and Wildlife Trails (sponsored by NJ Audubon Society) program has extensive information on wildlife trails throughout the state and now they are working on the Pinelands Region...and they want your input.

Please join the Clementon Environmental Comission for an informative and entertaining presentation on the Pinelands Region. Representatives are asking people from the county to share their wisdom of the best places to view wildlife.

The meeting is Tuesday, March 3rd, 7:30 pm at the Clementon Community Center, 195 Gibbsboro Rd, Clementon NJ 08021

Gas Leak Near Patco Station

PATCO is/was running shuttle buses between Broadway and Ferry Ave. because of a gas leak (you don't want a spark anywhere near one of those). Hopefully all will be well soon, if it isn't already.

Day Notes

It was a little warmer today, which may have accounted for the longer than usual line at Jordan's hot dog cart around 11:30.

Rowan Univ. Expanding Its Camden Presence

According to a new article on Philly.com (the Inquirer's website), Rowan University plans to expand it's campus in Camden. The university wants to triple the size of its enrollment in Camden and increase classroom space:

The college wants to purchase the First Camden National Bank & Trust building, at Cooper Street and Broadway, catty-corner to its current building — which it co-owns with Camden County College.

For more details see "Rowan U to expand in Camden," by Susan Snyder

WCCR Rutgers Radio

Who knew? Rutgers Camden has a radio station, WCCR. No further information available but you can follow them on twitter

www.twitter.com/WCCRcamden

Other RU-C twitter addresses, although not actively tweeting at the moment:

www.twitter.com/rutgerscamden
www.twitter.com/RCCA (Rutgers Camden Arts)
http://twitter.com/CamdenIDT

Other Camden twitters:

http://twitter.com/hopeworkscamden

Victor Building Business Updates

A few updates on the businesses at or coming soon to the Victor Building.

The Susquehanna Bank branch is open.

Rita's Water Ice will open this summer in a spot next to the Victor Pub.

The Market Street Pizzeria was doing good business at the lunch hour.

Miss G's is expanding their offerings. In the next few days they will open a deli counter with Boar's Head meats and Del Buono's Italian Bakery breads. Soup, salad, and wraps will follow. They will also be offering breakfast wraps and breakfast sandwiches. There will be some space set aside for seating also. The store is open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Riverwalking Notes

It was such a beautiful day today that I went out for a walk. Seems a lot of other people had the same idea. The Cooper Grant Commons townhouses look really nice, with appropriate but varied colors of paint on the trim. The metal fence around the statuary in front of the Walt Whitman Center is amazing, with carved alligators, herons and other water birds on it. Along the river I saw three joggers and one walker. Back at the campus, a class was meeting on the grass by a tree in front of the library and in the green space between the library and the admissions building a group of students were playing a game of scrimmage. A nice breath of spring before another snow.

Women's History Month

Here is a list of events scheduled for Women's History Month (March) on the Rutgers Camden campus; the public is welcome to attend:

Tuesday, March 3 at 12:20 pm in Armitage Faculty Lounge, Dr. Antoinette Pole, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and Law, Montclair State University: "Women: Blogging the Political"

Thursday, March 5 at 1:30 pm in FA110 -- Dr. Jennifer Fisher, Associate Professor, Department of Public Health, Temple University: "How Much Is Enough? Portion Size and Satiation in Young Children"

Tuesday, March 10 at 4:30 pm in Penn 401 -- Dr. Lorrin Reed Thomas, Assistant Professor, Department of History, Rutgers: "What Happened to History in the Seventies? Beyond 'The Personal is Political'"

Monday, March 23 at 12:10 pm in Armitage Faculty Lounge, Dr. Margaret Marsh, Interim Chancellor and Professor II, Department of History, Rutgers: "The 'Mothers' of the Pill: Margaret Sanger, Katharine McCormick, and Oral Contraception"

Thursday, March 26 at 12:20 pm in Armitage Faculty Lounge, Dr. Martin Rosenberg, Professor, Department of Fine Arts, Rutgers: "A Complex Weave: Women and Identity in Contemporary Art"

Noon Concerts

The schedule for this year's noon concerts, sponsored by the Rutgers Camden School of Fine Arts Music Program has been released:

Feb 11 - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Mallery Room
Milo Morris, Bass-Baritone, will perform Spirituals in celebration of Black History Month, with Mathew Wright (CCAS ’07), piano accompanist

Feb 18 - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Mallery Room
2 clarinet & bassoon
Yao Guang Zhai, clarinet
William Amsel, clarinet
William Short, bassoon
Mostly Mozart: Divertimenti

Feb 25 - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Mallery Room
Heidi Jacob, cello – performing works with Haverford College students Simon Linn-Gerstein, cello, and Michal Schmidt, piano, cello

Mar 25 – 12:00 pm – 1:00 | Mallery Room
Youngjoo An, soprano - Heroines of Puccini and Mozart Operas

Apr 8 - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Mallery Room
Charlie Abramovic, piano

Apr 22 - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Mallery Room
Asst. Professor of Electroacoustic Composition Mark Zaki

Apr 29 - 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm | Mallery Room
Distinguished Professor Julianne Baird – Madrigal Ensemble

All concerts are held in the Mallery Room (unless otherwise indicated), which is located on the second floor of the Fine Arts Building. Admission is free. The concerts are under the direction of Prof. Emeritus W. Davis Jerome.

The public is welcome to attend.

PATCO Food Drive

Feb. 9-13 marks PATCO's 18th annual Valentine Food Drive.

On those days bring any non-perishable food item (no glass bottles or soda cans please) to any of PATCO's nine New Jersey stations. Look for large red barrels inside the fare gates. The food will reach those in need through the Food Bank of South Jersey, a United Way agency.

Among the most needed items:

canned meats, beans, fruits, and vegetables
peanut butter
100% fruit and vegetable juices
dried fruit
soups / stews
sauces
condiments
evaporated and powdered milk
non-refrigerable puddings and custards
plastic containers of infant formula
rice and pasta
breakfast cereals
muffin and bread mixes

If you live or work near a station, maybe you would offer to be a point person in your office or neighborhood to collect items from those who don't take the train?

Camden Student Activism, 1960-1985

The Paul Robeson Library is hosting an exhibit in the library lobby on Rutgers Camden Student Activism, 1960-1985. Those who were in Camden during those years may want to take a stroll down memory lane. Those who were not might want to come just to look at the fringe vests and bell bottoms in the pictures.

PATCO Turns 40

While riding home yesterday, I found a flier on the seat announcing that PATCO turns 40 this year. There are going to upcoming events to mark the years of service and they would like to hear from people about their thoughts and experiences riding PATCO. They are looking for vintage photos and are particularly interested in stories from people who were among the first to use the service.

If you have some stories or photos or know someone who would like to share their stories and photos, PATCO would like to hear from you by Feb 6th.

Email them at info@lists.drpa.org.

Camden in Winter 2009 Rutgers Magazine

Camden has several points of pride in the latest issue of Rutgers Magazine:

"The Shipping News," (p. 17) on Newark alumnae Beverly Grissom, who is a co-founder of the Camden Shipping Corporation.

"The Sister Act," (p. 31-32) on interim chancellor Margaret Marsh and her sister Dr. Wanda Ronner, who co-authored a book on fertility expert John Rock.

"And Justice for All (p. 38-43) on law school professors who work at the Urban Law Clinic and the Children's Justice Clinic. Profs Laura A. Cohen and Sandra Simkins are profiled.

Mark Your Calendar: Aquarium Events for 2009

For those who like to plan ahead, here is a list of Adventure Aquarium events for the year:

BRIDAL EVENT
February 25, 2009, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
All brides-to-be (and one additional guest) are invited to attend this one-day event FREE OF CHARGE! Want to bring the entire bridal party? Not a problem...additional guests are invited to attend for just $10 each. Even event parking is free!
Guests of the Bridal Open House in CURRENTS will be invited to sample signature hors d'oeuvres and cocktails and will be introduced to Adventure Aquarium's preferred partners offering services for everything from entertainment, floral and stationary to photography/videography, fashion, transportation and more. CURRENTS Event Specialists will also be available throughout the evening to answer questions and discuss the details of your very special day. Special pricing incentives will be offered to those who book that evening!

BUTTON'S BIRTHDAY BASH
April 4 - April 19
Celebrate Button the hippo's 12th birthday with live music, games, hippo birthday cake, and more!

A SPECIAL "MOTHER'S DAY" NBC 10 DAY!
May 10
Guests pay only $10 admission, compliments of NBC 10! Members of the NBC 10 team will greet guests and sign autographs.

DISCOVERY CHANNEL'S SHARK WEEK
July 25 - August 2
Celebrity shark experts, shark shows, giveaways and more! Come with a shark fin on your head (creativity encouraged!) and get $2 off admission.

NBC 10 DAY!
October 10
Guests pay only $10 admission on NBC 10 Day, compliments of NBC 10! Members of the NBC 10 team will greet guests and sign autographs.

CREEP IN THE DEEP
October 24th - 25th
Creepy fun for the whole family!
*Special hours offered for Passport holders.

COAT DRIVE
November 1 - November 31
Bring a new coat with the tags still attached and receive $2 off your ticket purchase!

FISHMAS WITH RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER
November 26 - January 3
Meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and watch as Scuba Santa dives into our 760,000-gallon Ocean Realm exhibit!


DEEP SEA SPLASH NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY
December 31
Welcome the New Year at Adventure Aquarium! Enjoy dinner, drinks, dancing, and a flawless view of the fireworks celebration at midnight!

Breakfast and a Smile

One morning last week was one of those mornings when things do not go well. A casualty of this was breakfast. A quick stop at Jordan's Hot Dog Cart, which is set up between the Business & Science Building and the Student Center, put things to right. Jordan offered up a bacon & egg sandwich and a bottle of orange juice, at a reasonable price, and a big smile, which was free.

Stormin' Norman: Jersey Boy

Gen. Norman Schwartzkopf, commander of the Coalition Forces in the 1991 Gulf War, was born in Trenton and lived for part of his childhood in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. (See his autobiography for details.)

Vergilio Ceremony Sunday

A ceremony in honor of Camden haiku poet Nick Vergilio will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Rutgers University Campus Center, 326 Penn St., Camden, $10. The event is a fundraiser.

Vergilio, a Camden resident, who died in 1988, is considered a haiku master.

For more information see "A salute to Camden's haiku master," by Chuck Darrow, in today's Philadelphia Daily News.

Special Price on Aquarium Passports

A note from our friends at the Adventure Aquarium:

For a limited time only...when you buy an Adventure Aquarium Annual Passport, you'll receive $10 off the Family Explorer package (2 adults & 4 children) and $15 off a Family Explorer Plus package (2 adults, 4 children and 2 guests)! Annual Passports offer year-round access to thrilling exhibits, creative events and special programming through exploration of the world above and below the ocean's surface!

Enjoy Exclusive Passport Benefits:
FREE Admission to Adventure Aquarium for One Year!
Fast Track Entry - Skip the ticketing lines and scan your membership card at our entrance to begin your adventure!
Special Passport Holder-Only Events - Participate in signature events like our Passport Holder-only Creep in the Deep Trick-or-Treat Celebration!
Exclusive Discounts - Receive discounts on birthday party packages, Aquarium Adventures and purchases in our café and gift shop!
Insider Information - Be the first to learn about new exhibits and exclusive events and receive regular updates on animal arrivals, births and more!
Special Benefits - Receive FREE 4D Theater tickets and more!

Rutgers Assistant Dean Wins Drinan Award

Eve Biskind Klothen, assistant dean of the Rutgers-Camden Law School, has been recognized by the Association of American Law Schools with 2009 Father Robert Drinan Award for outstanding contributions to pro bono and public service. "Priceless work marks Rutgers Law," by Cynthia Henry in the Jan. 19th Philadelphia Inquirer notes:

Though Rutgers-Camden doesn't require pro bono work, as law schools such as the University of Pennsylvania do, more than two-thirds of its 750 students participate. It's a credit to the program, pro bono coordinator Pamela Mertsock-Wolfe said.

Volunteers are involved in death-penalty appeals, bankruptcy, immigration, domestic violence, financial literacy, disability benefits, mediation, legal research and voters' rights.

Klothen took over the pro bono program in 2002.

New Jersey Public Libraries at Risk?

This is circulating around some email lists. Those who value public libraries may wish to check on the situation in their own area:

On January 8, 2009 the League of Municipalities distributed a draft resolution to its members requesting that local municipalities support the League's efforts to slash public library funding by 50%. The resolution is available online at:

http://www.njslom.org/ml010809-library.html

Some municipalities are acting very quickly on this resolution -- allowing little time for debate or discussion. What can you do? Call your mayor or council people and let them know you strongly oppose this attempt to cut minimum funding for public libraries. Make sure library supporters know about any attempts in your community to support this draconian measure proposed by the League. Review all agendas prepared by the municipality. Some municipalities are trying to act on this resolution quickly, even this week. Don't let this happen. Speak out against this resolution.

It is now more important than ever that NJLA members reach out to local library boards and municipalities requesting that they reject this attempt to devastate public library funding in the state. NJLA has prepared a draft resolution that library boards and municipalities can use to show their support for the existing minimum funding level for public libraries. This resolution is available at:

http://njla.pbwiki.com/Public+Policy

Central and South Jersey Sports Blog

Those who enjoy Central and South Jersey sports might enjoy reading New Jerzey Sports (http://www.newjerzeysports.blogspot.com/). It covers college and pro teams and has some feature articles on selected athletes.

A View from the Bridge

Tonight on the way home, as the train was heading up towards the bridge, a large flock of birds swooped in and out of sight, circling the city. Their black silhouettes against a sky just starting to darken but still blue was beautiful.

Brass Rail Now Taking RU Express Cards

The Brass Rail Restaurant (425 Market St) in Camden is now accepting RU Express cards.

Their breakfast menu features, omlettes and eggs, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches and other items. The lunch menu includes wraps, soup, salads, hot and cold sandwiches and assorted other items. I am a big fan of the egg salad sandwich on whole wheat toast.

A Few Other Victor Building Updates

While out walking yesterday and testing out the new pizzeria I noticed a few other things that have changed recently in the Victor Building. The Susquehanna Bank branch is open. Also, the Victor has a children's menu now. No details on either at present.

Market Street Pizzeria Open

Great news!! The Market Street Pizzeria is now open, in the Victor Building, where La Riviera used to be. The menu is similar. I had a large slice of pepperoni and sausage on thin crust, and a bottle of soda (the soda fountain isn't up yet but will be soon) for $5.08. It was good. The preliminary menu has pizza, stromboli, appetizers (the garlic knots looked delicious through the window), chicken, a variety of salads, wraps, burgers, sandwiches, and assorted other items. There is also a soup of the day, with bread. Hours are Monday through Friday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Saturdays noon to 6. I'm not sure they are open all hours yet so you might want to give them a week or so before going for dinner, but those working late at L3 or students heading for the riverside parking lot will surely enjoy the opportunity to get something to eat before heading home, not to mention the residents of the Victor who might appreciate having a pizzeria so close to home again.

A New Year

Apologies for the lack of posts for the past few months. I was away. Now it's a new year and a new start. I look forward to seeing what has changed while I was gone and what new and exciting things are happening in the city. It is nice to be back.

Roller Derby News

Found in Facebook:

ROLLER DERBY LEAGUE TO HOST SEASON-ENDING BOUT AND FOOD DRIVE IN ASBURY PARK SATURDAY, NOV. 29
Local women to offer up exciting skating battle; event is also a food drive and a ‘thank you’ to armed forces

The exciting world of roller derby will descend upon the Jersey Shore as two local teams from the Jersey Shore Roller Girls league battle it out Saturday, Nov. 29 in Asbury Park Convention Hall. The bout is also a collection point for a food drive to benefit the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

The female athletes of the Anchor Assassins and the Murder Beach Militia teams will serve up the fierce blocks and jams that roller derby is known for, as Asbury Park’s Convention Hall is transformed into a roller derby rink.

The event marks the final intra-league match-up for the Jersey Shore Roller Girls 2008 season. The teams have prepared a night of derby mayhem in a full-length bout where the women don their derby personas and showcase their skills as skaters hit, dodge and block to get through the pack and score.

With teams named Anchor Assassins and Murder Beach Militia, the league took note its bout was military-themed and decided to honor veterans and current members of the armed forces with a military discount to the event. Patrons who show a military ID will receive $5 off the $20 ticket price the day of the show.

The Saturday event doubles as a collection point for local food bank, The Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The public is invited to drop off non-perishable food items to Convention Hall anytime after 3 p.m. until the final whistle blows. Donors will be entered into a drawing for a 2009 season pass for all Jersey Shore Roller Girls home games.

A Horse in Camden?

Yesterday, I was enjoying the weather and taking a walk. As I passed the Federal Court House, I had to do a double take as there was a mounted policeman. I was surprised to see one as I know many of the mounted patrols in the area have been dismantled. It appears that the Camden Police Department Mounted Patrol is still active, though I could not find much information about it. They may have been part of the Camden County mounted unit as well, though once again I can only find brief mentions of these and no solid information.

Fall Weekend Fun

It's Fall, my favorite time of the year. If you are looking for some ways to celebrate the season here are a few, including a Pumpkin Festival, Art and Music Festival, Kroc Fest, Poetry and Kite Flying.

Enjoy the weekend!

Jane Cleland at Camden County Library

Mystery lovers take note! Thursday, Oct 2nd at the Camden County Library Book Discussion at the Bellmawr Branch in Bellmawr, NJ., 6 p.m., Jane K. Cleland will lead a book discussion of her new mystery ANTIQUES TO DIE FOR.

From her website:

Jane K. Cleland is the author of the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries, which have been referred to as an Antiques Roadshow for mystery fans. Her first novel, Consigned to Death, was a finalist for the Agatha, David, and Macavity Awards for Best First Novel. The second in the series, Deadly Appraisal, was published in April 2007 and the third, Antiques to Die For, in April 2008 [all by St. Martin's Minotaur]. Killer Keepsakes will be published in April 2009.

Address:
Camden County Library System
Bellmawr Branch
35 East Browning Rd.
Bellmawr, NJ 08031
www.camden.lib.nj.us

Camden Doctor Leading Campaign Against Sepsis

Dr. R. Phillip Dellinger, a critical care doctor at Cooper Hospital in Camden is the guideline writing chairman of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign.

Rutgers Camden Enrollment Up

The Camden campus of Rutgers University has a notable increase in enrollment, up nearly 15% for both undergraduate and graduate students. Welcome to all the new arrivals!

Riverwalking Notes

Earlier this week I got a glimpse of that beautiful brick building at 3rd & Market. Work on it is progressing nicely.

Arts Forum

Here's an interesting way to pass tomorrow afternoon:

STRENGTHENING DIVERSE COMMUNITIES THROUGH THE ARTS

*

** FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2008
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (reception follows)
WALTER K. GORDON THEATER
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Campus at Camden

A symposium on the topic of why and how the arts can provide a path to stable, inclusive & prosperous communities. Integrating the arts in community and economic revitalization to celebrate diversity is a strategy that is transforming New Jersey's cities, towns and neighborhoods.

Keynote: Anna Aschkenes, Director, Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission and Councilperson, New Jersey State Council on the Arts

Two panels will provide research data, strategies, best practices, and resources as well as New Jersey success stories.

REGISTRATION IS FREE AND REQUIRED: online at www.opensoc.org

Temporary Street Closings

For your information:

The U.S. Federal Marshall's Office has announced that, starting Monday,
Sept. 29, traffic patterns on Cooper Street will change and remain
altered throughout the duration of the "Dix Six" trial at the U.S. Court
House.

The two eastbound lanes (heading away from the Delaware River) of Cooper
Street between Fourth and Fifth Sts. will be closed. One westbound lane
(heading toward Lot 7 and the Delaware River) will continue to carry
traffic in that direction; the other westbound lane will be dedicated to
traffic heading in the opposite direction.

Street parking on the 400 block of Cooper Street will not be permitted
during this trial, which is expected to last throughout the remainder of
2008.

Camden Urban Gardens Tour

For those who garden and those who just enjoy looking at gardens:

The online magazine DIG IT! and the Camden City Garden Club, Inc. are co-hosting an autumn garden tour with a twist on Saturday, October 4.

‘The Garden People of Camden’ will showcase stories of urban horticulture by the people who live it – and love it. The self-guided tour starts at 11 a.m. from the Camden Children’s Garden, 3 Riverside Drive on the downtown Waterfront.

“When we started talking about this tour, someone in a suburban garden club told me ‘there are no gardens in Camden,’” says Mary Jasch, the magazine’s editor. “We want people to know that not only are there some great gardens in Camden - there are great gardeners, too. This is a chance for them to share their stories.”

The stops on the tour will include the home of Josephine, a container gardener who’s created a gracious oasis in her East Camden backyard; a once-vacant lot where Paulito and fellow high-rise tenants grow a truly global variety of fresh edibles; and a South Camden garden whose proprietor, Sam, epitomizes the old-fashioned values of hard work, neighborliness and civic pride.

Adding a dash of seasoning to the tour: A garden of aesthetic delights. The guide, Bernie, will usher visitors through a sculpture park that’s a showcase for the work of four well-known artists – and the backdrop for a fascinating story about restoring public space.

“This is a storytelling tour, a horticultural heritage tour and a historical tour all in one,” Jasch says. “Some of these gardeners bring with them the knowledge their families gained over generations.”

Tickets are $8 for Camden City Garden Club members and $15 for non-members and can be purchased at the Children’s Garden on the day of the tour, or in advance at www.dig-itmag.com. Participants are welcome to bring lunch to the picnic pavilion at the Children’s Garden, which will offer reduced-price admission for tour-goers. In addition, Triple Oaks Nursery, in Franklinville, will offer tour-goers a 20 percent discount on all nursery plants Saturday and Sunday, October 4 and 5.

“The notion there are no gardens in the city - or that nothing grows – is just plain wrong,” says Mike Devlin, executive director of the Children’s Garden. “Across the country, more and more people are gardening, because they’re worried about the economy and the environment, and are interested in healthy eating and enjoying the outdoors with their children. This is happening in Camden, too.”

Camden Riversharks Playoffs

Tonight's playoff game between the Camden Riversharks and the Long Island Ducks begins at 7:05pm. Campbells Field. There will also be fireworks!

Newark Black Film Festival in Camden

For film enthusiasts:

Rutgers-Camden Center for the Arts is delighted to welcome the Newark Black Film Festival to the Gordon Theater from September 11th through 26th @ 7:30 pm. FREE ADMISSION. Head to www.rutgerscamdenarts.org for a complete film schedule.

Since its inception in 1974, the Newark Black Film Festival has become known among its peers as the longest running black film festival in the United States. Throughout the years, it has continued to provide a progressive public forum for hundreds of emerging writers, directors, producers, performers and film buffs who enjoy African American and African Diaspora cinema. Each film selection encompasses a wide range of cinematic forms and formulas, from documentary to the avant-garde. The Festival is FREE of charge to the public and receives funding in the form of special grants from foundations and corporations. The 2008 Festival season is made possible by a grant from Bank of America.

Kids' Night at RU-C Soccer

An FYI for soccer parents:

KID'S NIGHT

Friday, September 5th
7:30pm

Men's Soccer vs. Alvernia College

Bring your kids to the game for a night of exciting soccer as your Rutgers-Camden Scarlet Raptors take on Alvernia College in the first round of the Cialella Soccer Classic

Games, Prizes and Giveaways for all kids in attendance

Autograph session with the Scarlet Raptors the 20th Ranked Team in the Nation

Special Appearance by The Raptor!!!!

Rutgers Community Choir

If you like to sing this may be for you:

This fall, the Rutgers University Choir is opening its doors to the community, staff, and faculty members. Choir rehearsals are taking place in the Black Box Theater (FA136) in the Fine Arts building every Tuesday and Thursday 1:30 - 2:50 PM. Students are required to attend rehearsals on both days in order to receive credit for the class. Non-registered singers may join us on Tuesdays and as many Thursdays as possible.

The goal of the choir is to provide our singers and audiences with a rich musical experience. Singers can expect to perform repertoire in a variety of languages (English, German, Latin, French, Italian, Spanish, Church Slavonic, Russian, Hebrew, etc.) and in various musical styles (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Twentieth-Century), all of which will be enjoyable to the novice and experienced alike.

Professor Julia Zavadsky will be the choir director.

New Law School Courtyard

The walkway under the new bridge of the law school addition is starting to open up. There is a small courtyard on the side closest to the Ben Franklin Bridge, with some benches. It has become a popular gathering place for students.

Jill Biden, Jersey Girl

Jill Biden, wife of vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Biden, was born in Hammonton, New Jersey.

William Still and Lawnside

For those interested in a short history of why William Still and the Lawnside community in New Jersey are important in the African American community and the history of the underground railroad, watch this video on YouTube.

Battleship Events This Month

The Battleship New Jersey has a number of special events scheduled this month:

- WOGL's Battleship Bingo, Sun., Aug. 10th. . Listen to WOGL or visit WOGL.com to win a chance to play Bingo for prizes on the fantail of the ship.

- WMMR's Band on the Battleship, Fri., Aug. 15th. Listen to WMMR 93.3 FM or visit wmmr.com to win tickets to a show by the rock group, Filter on the fantail.

- Military Vehicles Day, Sat., Aug. 16th. See jeeps, transport trucks on more on the ship's pier.

- Bedlam on the Battleship Wrestling Event, Sun., Aug. 17th. Pro-wrestling makes it deput on the Big J! Highlighted by The Patriot, pro-wrestlers will grapple on the ship's fantail.

- Union Members Free for Labor Day, Mon., Sept 1st. The Battleship celebrates Labor Day by offering free self-guided tours to all union members with valid ID.

Bruce Garrity Artwork

The new lobby of the Paul Robeson Library is now the temporary home of some of Prof. Bruce Garrity's paintings. They are very colorful and really liven up the space; taking in all the elements of each canvas would take several viewings so even if you've seen them be sure to look again.

Big Purple Flowers

Right outside the Rutgers Camden student center there are some very large, deep magenta hibiscus-y looking flowers. Make a point to walk past now as they are very lovely but likely to fade soon.

National Children and Youth Gardening at CCG

This past weekend the Camden Children's Garden played host to a number of visitors. From their report:

The visitors came from as far away as New Zealand and as close as New Jersey.

But in their admiration for the Camden Children’s Garden, they all came from the same place.

About 330 participants in the 16th annual National Children and Youth Gardening Symposium of the American Horticultural Society (AHS) toured the Children’s Garden on Saturday, July 26. It was the closing day of the conference, which was co-hosted by the Children’s Garden, Longwood Gardens, Winterthur Museum and Country Estate, and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

“We were thrilled to be able to give people from all over the country who love youth gardening the chance to see what we’re doing here in Camden - especially with our youth employment and job training program,” said Michael Devlin, executive director of the Children’s Garden. He and his wife Valerie Frick co-founded the nonprofit Camden City Garden Club in 1985, and the club opened the Children’s Garden on the Camden Waterfront in 1999.

Local Food Network Star

Congratulations to Aaron McCargo, winner of Food Network's "The Next Food Network Star". As the winner, he will have his own show on the Food Network, "Big Daddy's House."

Camden in Flower

From our friends at the Camden Children's Garden:

More than 500 participants in the American Horticultural Society’s “Growing Fertile Minds and Communities”conference will visit the Camden Children’s Garden from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 26.

The Garden is co-hosting the conference along with Longwood Gardens, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and Winterthur Museum and Country Estate. This is the 16th annual National Children and Youth Garden Symposium sponsored by AHS, the largest and oldest organization of its kind in the nation.

“We’re honored to be selected as a co-host, and we’re eager to have horticulture and education professionals from across the country see first-hand what we’re doing in Camden,” says Mike Devlin, executive director of the Children’s Garden.

“Gardening’s popularity has never been higher among adults and children alike, driven in part by concern about the economy, the environment, food, and obesity,” Devlin adds. “Gardening is something families can do together. Gardening enhances the ‘green’ quality of homes and neighborhoods. It’s good for the environment – and good for people, too.”

Devlin and his wife, Valerie Frick – the Garden’s director of education – last month were presented with the AHS’s Jane L. Taylor Award, which is given to individuals and organizations that inspire future horticulturalists through children and youth gardening. Devlin and Frick co-founded the Camden City Garden Club, Inc. in 1985. After hearing Taylor speak at the first National Children and Youth Garden Symposium in 1993, they went on to open the Children’s Garden in 1999.

The Garden provides youth education and employment programs and has helped 250 city youngsters stay in school and graduate since 1994 – despite Camden’s 60 percent dropout rate. The Garden Club operates Grow Lab (greenhouses on wheels) programs in most of the city’s public, private, and parochial elementary schools and helps hundreds of community gardeners citywide.


The AHS conference will be headquartered at the University of Delaware in Newark, Del.

Faerie Folklore at the Camden Children's Garden

Next Wednesday, July 16, The Camden Children's Garden is having a Wednesday Workshop:

Faerie Garden Funtasies for Parent & Child Workshop
Presented by Lorraine Kiefer, Triple Oaks Nursery & Herb Garden co-owner, and garden columnist. Attendees will be entertained with some of the fascinating folklore that has been associated with fairies through the centuries and will make their own Faerie dish garden using herbs, an alyssum and a variety of small flowering annuals. This workshop is held 10:00am-11:30am. $15.00 for Garden members and $20.00 for non-members.

See the calendar for reservation information.

Rutgers Future Scholars

A select number of middle school students have been tapped for mentoring, enrichment and support from Rutgers University. If they keep their grades up they can get a tuition free college education.

From yesterday's Inquirer ("Rutgers program brightens youths' future:

The students have been selected by their schools and the university to be the first Rutgers Future Scholars. Starting this summer and going through their high school years, they will receive enrichment and support. If they keep their grades up and maintain 90 percent attendance, they will get guidance, tutoring, mentoring and test preparation. There will be programs for their parents, as well.

If the students graduate from high school with a 2.5 grade-point average or better, they will be in line for a Rutgers college education tuition-free.

Of the 200 students chosen each year 50 will be from Camden.

Rutgers also has a Q&A about the program. It's purpose is given as:

As the state’s premier public university, Rutgers is committed to making higher education accessible to New Jersey students and to enrolling a student body that reflects the diversity of the state. The university also has a long history of educating a large percentage of students who are the first in their families to obtain a college degree. The Rutgers Future Scholars Program is being undertaken now to continue and enrich these traditions by building an early path to higher education for young students. According to President McCormick, “Rutgers has an imperative to make a difference in the world” through programs such as this.

Camden Celebrity Chef

I don't watch "The Next Food Network Star", but I might have to catch it now that I found out there is local representation. Camden resident Aaron McCargo, Jr. is a finalist on the show. The name caught my eye because I remember when there was "McCargo's" Restaurant on Cooper St in the building that has sadly seen several restaurant come and go...wonder if this was the same McCargo. In an interview with Aaron he states that his dream is to open a restaurant on the Camden Waterfront, let's wish him the best on the show and keep our fingers crossed for that Waterfront restaurant. Good Luck Aaron.

Camden Little League Team Plays at White House

Cramer Hill Little League team, the Little Red Sox, played on the South Lawn of the White House yesterday. (See "S.J. T-ball champs are wowed at the White House," by Matt Katz, Inquirer, June 30).

Sleepover at Sea

The Battleship New Jersey is offering the Overnight Encampment program again this summer. For a fee you can enjoy dinner and breakfast served from the Crew's Mess, a ride in the 4D Flight Simulator, a tour of the ship -- which includes the new City at Sea Tour and the chance to sleep in the bunks that the crew of the USS New Jersey once did. For details and pricing see the battleship's website.

Camden, Home of the Drive-In

Carrie Rickey reported on www.philly.com on June 5 ("Camden's immortal contribution to film ")

The drive-in, that convergence of two late-19th-century technological innovations, cars and cinema, was born in Camden County, N.J., one sultry June 75 years ago. “The whole family is welcome, regardless of how noisy the children are,” advertised innovative exhibitor Richard Hollingshead, Jr., who opened the first drive-in on Admiral Wilson Boulevard, charging 25 cents, the price of a ducat at a conventional moviehouse, but offering the advantage of not having to dress up (as people did in those days) or worry about the conduct of your children.

Parada San Juan Bautista

Parada San Juan Bautista is celebrating a 51st anniversary this year. The annual parade will be this Sunday, June 29, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., 7th and Elm Streets onto Market St, proceed to the Camden Waterfront.

The post parade concert will be from 4:00 to 8:00 at the Wiggins Waterfront Park.

Left on a Bench?

Someone, most likely a woman, left something that is probably of value on a bench behind the Walt Whitman Art Center. It was turned in to the security guard at the Board of Education Building.

Sea Movie!

Looking for something to do this weekend? The Battleship New Jersey and Sunoco Welcome America are presenting a free family movie, "Happy Feet," on the ship's pier on Sunday, June 29th at 8 pm. There will be food, drinks and prizes.

PATCO Tunnel Reopening?

This morning in the PATCO station, the gates were open to the tunnel under the street. The entrance on the other side has been closed for years if not decades. Is this a sign of things to come or just someone doing some spring cleaning? Time will tell.

Update: On the way home the gates were closed. Just a momentary thing apparently.

West Oak Lane Jazz & Artz Festival

The 5th annual West Oak Lane Jazz & Arts Festival will be held June 20-22, on the 7100 to 7400 blocks of Ogontz Avenue in Northwest Philadelphia. Live music by, among others, the Benny Golson Quartet, The Whispers, The O'Jays, Mandrill, War, Kevin Eubanks, Ashford & Simpson, and Pieces of a Dream.

Susquehanna Bank Branch Coming to Victor Building

Steve left a comment on yesterday's post saying that yes, indeed, that is a Susquehanna Bank branch moving into the corner of the Victor Building. It is expect to open in the fall. Someone I know is already planning to open an account there. Thanks, Steve, for the news.

Riverwalking Notes

Something is moving into a corner of the Victor Building, between the concierge / front entrance and the Victor Pub. I'm not sure what but workmen are putting up drywall, etc. The permit taped to the window says Susquehanna Bank, 1 Market St. but that could just as easily be the organization paying the bills as the one moving in.

For the curious, the Crossroads Cafe by the Adventure Aquarium does not start serving lunch until 11:30 but Jordan's Place, the hotdog cart on the edge of campus is almost always open. You can get a hotdog, some chips, and a drink for around $3.00, which is a good price.

The white hydrangeas (?) blooming in front of the Rutgers Campus Center smell wonderful. The bees are in heaven, zooming around the blossoms.

That beautiful red brick building on the corner of 3rd and Market is finally being renovated. A workman who paused to answer my questions pointed out the herringbone brickwork near the top. He said it was a lost skill, setting bricks in that pattern. He did tell me what the building was going to be used for but it would be better to get confirmation before posting it. It sounds like the former Hector's Place restaurant next door will be incorporated into the new venture. The gentleman was very well-read and I was impressed with his gallantry (reminding me to watch for traffic) and his use of historical allusions in describing the building's architecture. You could tell he truly loved his work.

Now, if only we could get La Riviera back.....

Rutgers Summer Writers Conference

The 22nd annual Rutgers Camden Summer Writers' Conference will be held June 23 through July 2.

An intensive program of workshops and readings, featuring a staff of nationally-known writers, poets and editors. The series of workshops, lectures and lunch meetings is open to both Rutgers students and the community, though some prior workshop or professional experience is required. It may be taken for either undergraduate or graduate credit as well as on a non-credit "certificate" basis. See the course listings for Undergraduate and Graduate course numbers.

EVENING READINGS
The 2008 Summer Writers' Conference features evening readings by the staff members and students. These affairs with refreshments begin at 7pm and are free and open to the general public. All readings will be in the Stedman Gallery in the Fine Arts Center.

SUMMER 2008 SCHEDULE
Monday, June 23: J.T. Barbarese and Lisa Zeidner
Tuesday, June 24: Aaron Hamburger and Karen Karbo
Wednesday, June 25: Moira Crone and Jim Daniels
Thursday, June 26: Rodger Kamenetz and Sidney Wade
Monday, June 30:Jonathan Galassi and Rachel Pastan
Tuesday, July 1: Victoria Chambers and Lauren Grodstein
Wednesday, July 2: Students from the program

Riviera Update

My favorite lunch spot, La Riviera, has been closed for a few days now. A sign has been put on the door saying it is closed for the day. A little snooping has led me to believe this is temporary, but that isn't certain. The Camden Courier Post ran a story "Waterfront eatery closes," on June 11, which implies the closing is permanent. Hope springs eternal -- I'll assume it will re-open in good time.

Camden Shipyard & Maritime Museum

Another cultural gem in our fair city is the Camden Shipyard @ Maritime Museum, located at 191o Broadway St. According to their website:

The Camden Shipyard and Maritime Museum is a new, family oriented, interactive, cultural and educational facility that is being developed near the Delaware River in a beautiful, historic (1881) church that was built using ballast stones brought from around the world in the holds of sailing ships. Situated in the historic district of Waterfront South in Camden, New Jersey, the aim of the Museum is to present a variety of programs and exhibitions related to local and regional maritime history and host a variety of recreational boating programs for children and their families. The Museum’s programs will have a thematic orientation to the people, places, enterprises, and events associated with the maritime history of the New Jersey side of the Delaware River estuary.

More on this museum later.

World Oceans' Day at the Aquarium with Joe Piscopo

Joe Piscopo will be at the Adventure Aquarium this Sunday, June 8, to celebrate World Ocean's Day:

Enjoy a day complete with arts & crafts, activities, and displays presented by various conservation-minded organizations. Also, meet our volunteer divers and learn about their dive equipment and methods of care for the aquarium's animals. Guests will also have the opportunity to watch as a 530-lb artificial reef ball is placed in the Aquarium's underwater exhibit to help raise awareness as to the importance of creating and maintaining sustainable marine life habitats.

Also on-hand for World Ocean's Day will be actor and comedian Joe Piscopo, who, along with his three children, is featured in a brand new Adventure Aquarium Public Service Announcement that highlights the damage that ocean pollution can cause. More importantly, the video urges viewers to commit themselves to keeping our oceans clean by becoming ocean champions! Piscopo will also lead guests in a World Ocean's Day Pledge:

"I pledge to do my part to help protect our oceans. From this day forward, I will never litter. I will pick up trash. I will help make our world a better place."

A Shout Out to Officer Maria Rodriguez

Yesterday, halfway across the Ben Franklin Bridge, I realized my purse (keys, wallet, etc) was still on the bench at the Camden PATCO station. I called the police number on the wall and a friendly transit worker also called it on on his radio. When I got back to Camden DRPA Officer Maria Rodriguez was there with my purse. She dutifully quizzed me on name and address to make sure it was mine. Nothing was missing.

A thousand thank yous to the people on the platform who must have seen the purse and either didn't bother it or handed it over to Officer Rodriguez, and to the officer herself for acting so quickly in retrieving it. This is a great example of the Camden kindness and efficiency.

New Salad Place

Fresh Fruits and Salads has opened at 114 N. 3rd St. They offer a variety of salads, starting at around $5.00 and fruit salads starting at $3.00. Delivery service is available.

(If you are looking for the previous occupant of that address, Cafe & Salad Work, they have moved around the corner.)

Scarlet Knights / Scarlet Tanager

For the birding set, take a look at the wonderful photo of a Scarlet Tanager taken on the Rutgers campus recently. It's over at birds.camden.rutgers.edu. This is a great site to browse through on cloudy chilly days.

Baseball Camp at Rutgers

The Rutgers-Camden Summer Instructional Baseball Camp for children ages 8 to 18 will be held June 23 to 27 and from July 14 to 18. All sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will be grouped by age and skill level and will receive individual instruction in a variety of skill areas. Sessions will be led by the Rutgers-Camden baseball coaching staff and team members, other area coaches, and current and former professional or college players.

Heroes Day at the Aquarium

This Sunday is Heroes' Day at the Adventure Aquarium, which partners with the Camden City Police Department for the event. The aquarium will donate $1.00 out of every paid admission to the Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey.

You will have the opportunity to talk to law enforcement officers, fireman and EMS personnel from around the area including Camden City's Finest up close and in person! Check out their vehicles and equipment, learn from safety demonstrations, and much more. And, with SWAT and K-9 Units, Marine Rescue Squads, and more scheduled throughout the day, Heroes' Day is sure to have something for every member of your family!

Highlights of the 2008 Heroes Day include:

* Police Motorcycles
* Fire Trucks
* Bomb Squad Robots
* D.A.R.E. Vehicles
* SWAT Teams and Gear
* Marine Rescue Units
* K-9 Demonstrations
* Rappelling Demonstrations
* Car Seat Safety Inspections
* And more!

Picnic Spot

Yesterday I ate lunch on a bench across from the Coopers Grant townhouses, which look move-in ready, and in back of the Walt Whitman Arts Center. Today as I walked by someone else was sitting at the same bench. It must be a happening spot.

Several photographs of this area are available on the web at: http://www.camdencity.net/coopergrant.htm

Alumni Weekend!

This Saturday is the annual Rutgers Camden Alumni Reunion on the River.

The schedule includes movies, receptions, exhibits, and food, lots of food.

New Issues of Two Rutgers Online Journals Available

Two online journals based at Rutgers University in Camden have released new issues.

Mickle Street Review: An Electronic Journal of Whitman and American Studies, issue 19/20: Sights and Sounds is now available.

Rutgers Journal of Law and Religion, 9.2 Spring 2008 is also up on the web.

Enjoy!

Hilton Garden Inn Proposed for Camden Waterfront

Yesterday the New York Times took note of the proposed Hilton Garden Inn on the Camden Waterfront ("In a faded city, plans to build a hotel build hope," by Kareem Fahim).

On April 10th, the Courier Post wrote about this project, in "Camden may get Hilton hotel," by Eileen Stilwell.

According to the Courier Post:

PRA plans to build a five-story hotel with 140 rooms, an indoor swimming pool, small fitness center and meeting space with catering capabilities. It will not have a full-service restaurant, which is good news for the Victor Pub, Twenty Horse Tavern and other existing eateries.

In the Times:

The five-story hotel, with an indoor pool, would cater to several different kinds of travelers, Mr. [Thomas P] Corcoran [president of the Cooper's Ferry Development Association] said, including business people and visitors to Campbell Soup, Cooper University Hospital and Rutgers University’s satellite campus here. The developers also hope to lure families visiting the waterfront’s entertainment attractions, as well as visitors to a new convention center in Philadelphia, where hotel rooms can cost far more than the Hilton’s planned rate of $125 per night. Mr. Corcoran said that rock stars playing the concert hall, the Susquehanna Bank Center, usually stay at the Four Seasons in Philadelphia, but their road crews could stay at the proposed Hilton.

satellite campus???! I beg to differ!! 5,000 students is not a satellite campus.

A hotel would be a welcome addition to the city for a number of reasons, as Mr. Corcoran says, plus the convenience of having candidates for local jobs stay in town instead of having to drive them in from Philadelphia or Cherry Hill.

NBC 10 at the Aquarium

Fans of NBC 10 and/or the Adventure Aquarium might be interested in an outing this Saturday:

On Saturday, May 10, 2008, NBC 10 and Adventure Aquarium are up to something fishy, and YOU'RE INVITED! Come out to Adventure Aquarium for its third annual "NBC 10 Day," where all day, tickets will be just $10.00 for all guests, a substantial savings from the regular admission price. In addition, members of the NBC 10 news team will be on-hand to greet guests and sign autographs throughout the day. Currently scheduled newscasters include: Jamison Uhler, Lu Ann Cahn, Denise Nakano, Vince DeMentri, Deanna Durante, Lynn Berry, Tim Furlong, Mike Strug and John Clark.

Riverwalking Notes

Today I counted 5 fisherman, two joggers, and two other groups walking along the river. It's a popular place to be these days!

Camden Streets Ovrerrun with Cellos!

There was a cello (accompanied by a young man in a suit and a ponytail) in the PATCO station this morning and other musical instruments along the street.

The Symphony in C had a performance this morning and is having another tomorrow night. Check it out:

• Accordingly Bolero - Concert for Teens May 2, 2008 - 10:00am

  Conductor: Rossen Milanov, Music Director

  The passion of Latin America and hypnotic rhythm of Boléro will engross middle and high school students in the energy and power of a symphony orchestra. Q & A with Maestro Milanov follows this lively Latin inspired concert.

• Accordingly Bolero May 3, 2008 - 8:00pm

  Conductor: Rossen Milanov, Music Director

  The rhythms, the flavors, the passion of Latin America come together to energize an evening with Symphony in C you won’t soon forget!

  
  

Nathan's Now Serving Floats and Shakes

Nathan's Famous is now serving shakes and floats. They also have several flavors of Breyer's ice cream. Though it has been chilly this week warm weather will be here soon. In summer walking along the river can be hard work and a milkshake might be just thing to cool off.

Versus Network Moves to Philadelphia

Versus, the former Outdoor Life Network, is moving to Philadelphia.

Horton's Camden Connection

Horton Hears a Who's journey to the big screen had a stopover in Camden:

Rutgers-Camden 2002 alum Charles Lotierzo, originally from Maple Shade, is an animator with Blue Sky Studios. One of his most recent roles was serving as a character animator for the hit film “Horton Hears a Who,” featuring the voices of Jim Carrey and Steve Carell. Lotierzo was responsible for bringing the characters to life through believable motion and acting.

Lotierzo also worked on Ice Age II. While at Camden he completed his first animation short and demo reel. An art major he worked on animation projects as a student.

Rutgers Library Photo Exhibit

Selected works of photographer Jorge Shell are on display in the lobby of the Paul Robeson Library, Rutgers Camden. These photos were all taken in Camden, and some are of the campus and its environs. The people, natural environment, and structures of the city are seen through a different lens by a talented photographer.

Riverwalking Notes

Walking along the river this week I've noticed there are more fisherman out, and the fish are biting. One morning someone was reeling in what looked like a good sized catfish.

Angels in Camden

Rutgers-Camden Fine Arts Department/Theater Program is performing Tony Kushner's Pulitzer Prize Winning Play Angels in America, Part One: Millennium Approaches from April 17-27, under the direction of theater professor Kenneth Elliott. (See the website www.angelsincamden.com for details)

Tony Kushner's groundbreaking epic, winner of the 1993 Pulitzer Prize, is a sweeping examination of American life in the age of Reagan and the AIDS crisis. Frank Rich of the new York Times describes Angels in America as "a work that never loses its wicked sense of humor or its wrenching grasp on such timeless matters as life, death and faith."

Performances are held in the Walter K. Gordon Theater located across from the Gym on the north end of the Rutgers-Camden Campus. For directions to the campus, please visit: Directions to Rutgers University - Camden Campus

A New Jersey Odyssey

This Saturday, April 12, the Battleship New Jersey and the McCarter Theatre are presenting the Odyssey:

The greatest epic of western literature, Odysseus's voyage, is transformed into an innovative participatory theatrical experience aboard the Battleship. Students interact and play characters such as Penelope, Hermes, Poseidon and more! If you are in the room, you are in the show.

The performance is at 11 a.m., tickets are $10.

Esterbrook Pens

The successful manufacture of steel writing pens in the United States was first established by Richard Esterbrook at Camden, NJ, in 1858. It's original location was on Cooper St. near the river, but later moved to Cherry Hill. In the 1960's the Esterbrook merged with another company and then closed it's New Jersey operations.

For more information see "Esterbrook once set stardard for fountain pens," by Thomas A. Bergbauer. Camden Courier Post 1/31/08

Walking Notes

Out for a stroll at lunchtime, I stopped in at La Riviera and had a pepperoni roll for lunch. They have a new website, www.LaRivieraRestaurant.net if you want to check out the menu or hours or their catering service.

Along Penn St. between the university and the river, by the Coopers Grant townshouses, there are some very lovely trees with white blossoms. The flowers are too small to be a dogwood; they almost look like Mountain Laurel blooms. If anyone knows what kind of trees these are please leave a comment.

Red and white Rutgers banners have been attached to streetlights around campus. They look very nice.

Battleship Summer Camp

Ahoy there! Looking for something different for the kids this summer?

From July 7th thru 11th, the Battleship New Jersey will host a camp program from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm each day. The Battleship’s summer camp program will include detailed tours of the ship, a ride on the 4D Flight Simulator, special classroom sessions on the history of the ship, interactive activities including knot tying and ship building, and even a graduating ceremony, award presentation and pizza party on Friday, July 11th.

“We will show campers what life was like aboard the Battleship New Jersey,” commented Michael Flynn, Director of Education for the Battleship. “But we will also have a lot of fun during the week, including some special field trips to the Adventure Aquarium and the Independence Seaport Museum at Penn’s Landing. Both trips are included in the price of the camp.”

Flynn added that the Battleship is also offering a special Overnight Encampment to all campers. Although this would be an additional expense to campers, guests can spend Saturday, July 12th overnight on the ship. This includes dinner and breakfast served chowline-style from the crew’s galley and the chance to sleep in the bunks that the crew of the USS New Jersey once did.

For details, contact information and cost, see the summer camp press release on the Battleship's website.

PATCO Cat Update

"Eloy" left two comments on my previous post about the cat(s) in the 8th & market PATCO station updating the situation. Here is the latest:

The cat that was trapped for MONTHS at the 8th & Market PATCO station was rescued last night at 11:00 p.m. by the Philadelphia Cat Care Coalition. Greene St. Rescue has the cat at a safe foster home. They have named the cat “Choo Choo” and describe him as a “healthy, just dirty, one-year-old gray tabby.” They say “he is NOT feral, just lost some of his social skills with people that will come back easily with a little TLC.”

Thanks, Eloy, for letting us know the cat is safe.

Lunch at the Silver Diner

The lunch bunch went to the Silver Diner yesterday, across the highway from the Cherry Hill Mall. Some of us had been there before. Reports were positive on the cheeseburger, chicken noodle soup, chilli, salad, and onion rings. The grilled cheese is made with multiple cheeses on sourdough bread. Drinks are HUGE. However, the highest recommendation is for the brownie sundae, a warmed brownie (with nuts), one scoop each of chocolate and vanilla ice cream, with chocolate and caramel sauce. Take a friend because the sundae is great for two, too much for one.

The decor is fifties; each booth has a mini-jukebox, and an old video of Elvis greets you at the door. Kids are welcome but couples of varying ages and groups of friends are also in evidence.

Andrea Dworkin's Camden Roots

Andrea Dworkin, noted feminist, was born in Camden and went to high school in Cherry Hill. Some of her writings are available online (note: some of her views are regarded as radical). She died in 2005 (New York Times obituary).

Camden on Wheels

Camden is the home of the Millenium Skate World, which hosts birthday parties, offers girl Scout badge programs, and is the usual locale for Philly Roller Girls tryouts. You haven't lived until you've done the Hokey Pokey on wheels.

Meredith Gourdine, New Jersey Inventor

Thomas Edison is well known as a New Jersey inventor, sometimes called the "Wizard of Menlo Park" referring to the town he lived in. Lesser known is another Newark-based inventor, Meredith Gourdine, born in Newark and raised across the state line in Brooklyn. He returned home to Livington, NJ to set up his own company, Gourdine Systems. He was awarded 70 patents, most in the area of thermal management and electrogasdynamics.

According to his obituary in the New York Times (11/24/1998), "The companies he founded worked on purifying the air and converting low-grade coal into inexpensive, transportable and high-voltage electrical energy. They produced a commercial air-pollution deterrent, a high powered industrial paint spray and a device to eliminate fog above airports."

In his college years at Cornell he won a number of championships in track and was on the 1952 US Olympic team in Helsinki. He won the silver medal in the long jump; the gold medalist's jump was only an inch and half longer than Gourdine's.

He also served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. This was at a time when African Americans were not necessarily welcomed or well-represented in either the Olympics or as officers in the military.

As one bit of trivia, Groudine's one time track coach also coached actor Roscoe Lee Browne who was known as a half mile runner before is success in films. (NYT 7/16/1978, p. S9)

Restaurant Review: Palace of Asia

Just off Route 70 in Cherry Hill you can find wonderful Indian cuisine at Palace of Asia. The lunch group today included a vegan, a vegetarian, and two omnivores. We all found something to like. The menu offers a number of choices but we decided on the buffet which includes a salad, a variety of meat dishes (I had chicken), several vegetable dishes, rice, and a few desserts. I had fresh fruit. Everyone enjoyed their meal and it came to about $13.00 per person including tip.

You can also find the Palace of Asia in Lawrenceville, Philadelphia, and Wilmington, Del.

Start Shopping, She's A Big Girl

Weekends between March 1 and March 16 the Adventure Aquarium will be celebrating the birthday of Button the Hippo. She is coy about her age but does like a reason to party and eat cake:

On weekends from March 1st through March 16th, join us as we sing “Happy Birthday” to Button, and watch in amazement as she feasts on her very own birthday cake, a special vegetarian creation that includes carefully chosen ingredients like yams, kale, lettuce, carrots, celery, fruits and vegetables - a definite hippo treat!

Other Buttons Birthday Bash activities include: appearances by our hippo mascots, Bert & Belle; children’s arts & crafts activities and games like “Pin the Tail on the Hippo;” live shows like “Venture to Africa" and "Wild About Hippos;" photo opportunities with a Button look-alike; and children’s give-aways. Special Buttons Birthday Bash appearances currently include the Philadelphia Soul Dancers along with Soul mascot “Soulman,” Miss Teen International 2007 and Miss Teen New Jersey, and much more!

Full details and information on hippo experts. wine and cheese parties, and other related events are on the aquarium's website.

Librarian of the Year is a Jersey Girl

Normal Blake of Moorestown, New Jersey state librarian, has been named Library Journal's Librarian of the Year. One of Blake's initiatives is the New Jersey Knowledge Initiative, currently in limbo due to proposed state funding cuts.

Another is Super Librarian, pictured at the left.



For more on Norma, read "Award speaks volumes about her innovations," by Erin Duffy in today's Inquirer.

PATCO Cats

The PATCO station just across the river in Philadelphia, the one that connects to 8th & Market and the Gallery, has no doubt seen its share of wildlife. If people watching weren't enough entertainment, the occasional mouse skittering across the tracks, or a lost bird or two provide alternatives.

This winter a new species has become more visible. One or more gray tabby cats can sometimes be seen wandering around the tracks. Once the cat jumped up on the station platform but jumped back down again quickly. Perhaps the trains seem less dangerous than the passengers. There are enough places to hide when the trains come through and the vibration and sounds provide enough notice that the cat or cats can avoid harm. The cat (or cats) I've seen appear healthy and fit; chasing mice and birds is exercise, catching them is dinner.

The only concern is that parents of toddler have to keep closer watch on their children as they sometimes rush to the edge of the platform for a better view of the cat.