The column that never developed a taste for seafood
The column that never developed a taste for seafood
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Good morning!
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When I first started in the Bridgeton newsroom, Lauren Taniguchi was someone I looked up to. All these years later, I continue to look up to her and I've been trying to get her to write something for the BEN Column since I took it over. She finally relented.
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"Hey, if you'd like to share this info in the column, feel free: It's recommended that expecting parents get their baby car seats checked for proper installation by a properly certified person. I've been told that hospital staff will check to make sure you have a car seat before you take baby home but aren't necessarily prepared to make sure it's installed correctly.
"The information available online through the state regarding car seat inspection directs Cumberland County residents to contact the sheriff's department. I called there and was told to leave a message, but never heard back. When I followed up a week later, someone else there told me the sheriff's office no longer has anyone trained/certified to provide this service but I could try the State Police.
"When I called there, the officers at the NJSP Bridgeton barracks connected me with Trooper Russell, who allowed us to make an appointment for him to check our car seat at the barracks two days after I called. We met with him today and were so grateful for how knowledgeable and helpful (and nice) he was in making sure we were prepared to bring the baby home from the hospital and drive him around safely. Just thought I'd share the info for any expecting parents who are nervous about getting properly prepared for their new arrivals. NJSP Bridgeton barracks: 856-451-0101. Thanks!"
- Lauren Taniguchi
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"Commerce Street at the heart of a new movement in Bridgeton.
"In economic development, the current trends look at how a town can become a scene playing up its existing amenities, diversity and attractions, and how those strengths can become developmental 'capital.' The best economic development models are designed to be inclusive and accepting of all communities, encouraging diverse people to express their ideas and culture freely. Commerce St in Bridgeton, running right through the downtown, has become that model. A survivor of environmental forces that changed the face of the city as a whole, recently it has found a new pathway to a new vision.
"Commerce Street is home to an abundance of businesses, including for-profit and non-profit, that mesh into a perfect combination that is changing the blocks face and perception of the city as a whole. With staples being created such as the Gallery 50 and STEAMworks, which are attractions that are bringing energy and creativity to the area. Including those who have moved out of Bridgeton in recent years and has sparked their interest again.
"The next is the abundance of culture on Commerce Street that has started to see several communities come together. Town jewels such as Big Johns pizza which will keep traffic rolling through commerce from open too close. Though now culturally authentic style restaurants like Sweet Spice (Jamaican) and, El Cabana (Mexican) are starting to make their mark with the county, state, and local firms that employ so much in the county seat.
"The next is the future development happening in sites like the Ashley McCormick center with some of the best and unique style of space that South Jersey has to offer. Not to say the Central business does not still have its problems but, change is happening swiftly in Bridgeton. It is just a matter of time until we will be talking about Bridgeton's historic downtown as a new place to enjoy."
- Steven Paul, executive director of Bridgeton Main Street Association
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MY KIND OF TOWN: Where residents should see what their downtown has to offer
Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
