I just wanted to point folks over to the Rutgers-Camden Report, which highlights “renegade” writing from our undergrads. Here’s an excerpt from a fantastic article on Federal Street by Ilse Garcia Romero: 

We took a stroll down the lively Federal St., taking note of the many businesses lining the street and the services that are provided for the public, starting on 26th St. and ending on 31st.

Despite uninformed misconceptions about Camden, Federal St. proved to be pleasant to walk down, and seemed to be an integral part of a tight-knit community. At 10 A.M. on a Monday, small shops were already open for business and restaurants were prepping their main dishes for the lunchtime rush.

Worth visiting on 26th St. is San Lucas Mexican Restaurant, a vibrant establishment with ample seating and a wide variety of dishes on its menu. The restaurant’s brightly colored walls and rustic decor invite patrons in from the street, and the food resembles homemade Latin dishes that anyone can enjoy.

One patron of Mexican heritage seemed thoroughly satisfied by the torta cubana he ordered. “Great taste, good value, good service,” he said to describe the quality of his meal. “It’s authentic Mexican food.”

And while the food is prepared in a Mexican style, patrons of all races and ethnic groups are drawn to the bold flavors of San Lucas. “We get Latinos, Caucasians, African Americans — everything,” says a waitress about the diversity of their customers. “And it’s always different people coming through here.”

The 2600 block on Federal St. also features businesses like Camden Trust Company, Federal Liquors, Golden Dragon Chinese and American Food, Milly’s Pharmacy, Imperial Check Cashing and El Globo Pastries. Across the street you can find El Recodo Restaurant and Bar.

You can find H&R Block, Rite Aid, VIP Barber Shop, Jimenez Grocery Store, and Impressive Nails on the 2700 block.

Go read the rest, and certainly, check out the wonderful photos.