Local Knowledge

“I represent all the families of Camden,” says state-appointed superintendent

It was five hours into a Camden Board of Ed meeting filled with protest and high emotions when Keith Benson Sr. asked Superintendent Paymon Rouhanifard who, exactly, he represented. Paymon’s response was telling: “I’m here representing the people of Camden.” Sadly, that statement is false. In reality, Paymon is the figurehead of the least democratic … Continue reading “I represent all the families of Camden,” says state-appointed superintendent…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Camden, education, Local Knowledge.

Community Voice: A Story from the Night Garden

Guest post from local Camden resident and Retreat Coordinator of the Center for Environmental Transformation, Michael Zier. Photograph by April Saul. See more of her work on her Facebook page, Camden, NJ: A Spirit Invincible. Excluding shorthand texts from a T9 phone and a never-ending stream of work emails, I don’t write much anymore.  I … Continue reading Community Voice: A Story from the Night Garden…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Community Voice, Guest Post, Local Knowledge.

Dine Around: Reggae Grill

It’s a pleasure to highlight one of my favorite Camden events, LAEDA’s Dine Around.  I feel like I say it every month, but the idea is simple, yet powerful. Start by supporting what we have.  LAEDA does that with this little, monthly event that’s been gaining steam. Pick a restaurant, publicize it, and pull together … Continue reading Dine Around: Reggae Grill…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Camden, Local Knowledge.

Calling for Good Policy

One of the most frustrating aspects of the state-controlled Camden School District is its insistence on pushing policies that are being rejected by other urban communities. You would think that as elections in DC, New York, and now Newark show rejection by the very people that reforms claim to help, that the movement would slow … Continue reading Calling for Good Policy…

Posted by Stephen Danley in Camden, Local Knowledge.