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Things to Do

Looking for something fun and family-friendly to do this week? Check out Dino Day & Bug Bonanza Family Festival; Jim West in North, South, East, and Jim West; Hansel and Gretel; Family Fun Night; Spring Tillage Wagon Tours; ECC Cheer Shore Show Down; Beast of the East Cheerleading Competition; Big Band Dance; backyard gardening workshops and more! Step back in time with a tour of Pomona Hall and the Camden County History Museum, or just check out some of the other great attractions throughout South Jersey!

On Saturday, April 14, don't miss Jim West in North, South, East, and Jim West at Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, from 2-3pm. Travel the globe with Jim West’s multicultural extravaganza of puppeteering including puppetry, classical music, storytelling and geography – this thrilling show has something for everyone! At Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, 457 Shirley Road in Elmer. Tickets are $8. Call 800-394-1211 or go to appelfarm.org.

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The Garden State Discovery Museum is a great place for the entire family to visit.
This week, don’t miss Hansel and Gretel. Performance will be held at 2pm on Saturday, April 14. Follow the trail for a sweet tale of a brother and sister who lose their way in the wood and find a tasty house with an unsavory occupant. Discovery Theatre puts its wacky spin on the classic German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm for a big finale to Passport to Discovery.
Tuesday, April 17, through Friday, April 27, see some feathered friends from Quiver Farms emerge from their eggs!! The eggs will be at GSDM in the incubator from April 17-27. Come see them hatch!!!
Don’t forget to check out the new DINOSAURIUM! This brand new, 2000-square-foot exhibit dedicated exclusively to dinosaur exploration and discovery will bring you right back to prehistoric times. Climb and slide in the giant 3-story Climb-a-saurus structure. Unearth giant dinosaur bones in the dig site. Prepare fossils in the laboratory. Give a mighty roar in the Roaring Room.
The Garden State Discovery Museum is located at 2040 Springdale Road in Cherry Hill. Admission is $10.95 for adults and children 12 months old and older; $9.95 for seniors. Hours are 9:30am to 5:30pm daily. On Saturdays, it’s only $5 after 5pm. Saturday hours are extended until 8:30pm from October through April. They close Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve at 5:30pm; and are closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more information, call 856-424-1233 or visit their website at discoverymuseum.com.

On Saturday, April 14, don’t miss ECC Cheer Shore Show Down at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Elite Cheer Championship hosts this annual cheerleading competition, where all teams compete on a 54' by 42' spring floor. Hours are 9am-4pm; there is an admission fee. For more information, call 866-52-CHEER or go to EccCheer.com.

On Sunday, April 15, check out the Beast of the East Cheerleading Competition at the Wildwoods Convention Center, hosted by Cheer Tech. Hours are 9am-5pm; there is an admission fee. For more information, call 866-52-CHEER or go to CheerTech.net.

Saturday, April 14, enjoy the Big Band Dance with Kathleen Angela at the Avalon Community Hall, beginning at 8pm.

On Tuesday, April 17, check out a Classic Movie, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, at the Avalon Free Public Library at 6pm.

The Nature Center of Cape May has a lot going on. And lots you can take advantage of, free of admission, with the entire family! The Observation deck and tower provide a panoramic view of the harbor and surrounding area. The upstairs lounge provides an indoor harbor observation area and a place to relax, play games with friends, or read alone. Birding from the deck on the second story of the welcome center provides the best viewing advantage for spotting birds in the harbor and around the meadow. Browse the Aquaria with local marine life, natural history artifacts, and their busy songbird feeding station (seasonal). Monthly exhibits in the Trucksess Welcome Center, feature special art and natural history displays. The NJ Audubon Nature Store has nature gifts, field guides, clothing, and children’s discovery items. Children’s hands-on activities allow them to occupy their time while exploring nature. The Children’s Garden is full of fun, exploration and sensory experiences. The Wildlife habitat meadows feature a Monarch butterfly, milkweed, and wildflower garden, a songbird grassland meadow, and a new nature trail and bridge crossing a meandering stream. Theme gardens include butterfly, hummingbird, seaside, drought tolerant, shade, and songbird gardens. You can beachcomb the harbor during low tide and search for shells and other interesting treasures. Picnic tables are available for an enjoyable lunch overlooking scenic Cape May Harbor. And you can witness spectacular sunsets and magical twilight, and watch the changing colors of the sky from the Cape May Harbor waterfront.
April 14 and 21, noted local naturalist, author and wildlife gardener Pat Sutton will lead a series of content-filled backyard gardening workshops. April 14 is Pat’s Landscape Design Workshop (10am-3pm): learn how to design a plan for you own property which integrates the key elements of a wildlife garden including food, nectar producing plants, water and cover. April 21, (10:30am - Noon) hear Pat’s presentation about the amazing migration of the Monarch Butterfly and learn how to attract Monarchs and aid in their survival as a species. Later that same day (1-3pm) Pat will share proven strategies for attracting the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and be entertained by a blizzard of hummingbirds for the next five months. Pre-registration for each individual workshop is required since participation is limited to 20. Cost varies depending on workshop and membership status. Pre-register, and obtain additional information by calling the Nature Center of Cape May, 609-898-8848.
The renovated “Harbor Gallery” in the Trucksess Welcome Center hosts new exhibits every month by local artists with a reception held on the first Friday of each month.
For more information, go to njaudubon.org/SectionCenters/SectionNCCM/Introduction.aspx or call 609-898-8848.

If you like birding, check out the programs at Cape May Point State Park and Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO)! For information on upcoming classes, call 609-884-2159. For more information about the Cape May Bird Observatory, call 609-884-2736 or go to birdcapemay.org.

Tuckerton Seaport, a working maritime village, is located along the Tuckerton Creek. This one-of-a-kind attraction, in the heart of historic Tuckerton NJ, brings the Jersey Shore’s maritime traditions of the past and present to life through people, exhibits and hands-on activities. Discover the Jersey Shore's unique maritime heritage and the interaction between culture and nature on the Barnegat Bay. Experience the rich traditions of the Jersey Shore and its Baymen through the Seaport's recreated and historic buildings, demonstrations, interpretive exhibits, events, festivals, live aquatic displays and more. Decoy carvers, boat builders, basket makers, and baymen entertain, educate and delight visitors of all ages. Stroll the 3/4 mile boardwalk and experience life on the Tuckerton "Crik." Identify birds and plants on our 1/4 mile nature trail. Tour our site and view garveys, sneakboxes, cruising yachts and party boats displayed on land and water.
Tuckerton Seaport, located at 120 West Main Street in Tuckerton, is open daily, from 10am-5pm, rain or shine all year round. Admission is $8 for Adults; $6 for Seniors (62 and over); $3 for Children 6 to 12; Members and children 5 and younger are admitted free of charge. For more information, call 609-296-8868 or go to their website at tuckertonseaport.org.

Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Science has some great things going on!
The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences is located at 120 Long Beach Blvd. in Loveladies. The Galleries are open to the public all year round, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-3pm. For more information, please call 609-494-1241 or go to lbifoundation.org.

The Cape May Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts continues its exciting tours and events. Here are some of the exciting offerings:
Special Events
Wendel White’s Schools for the Colored … with an exhibit highlighting the life and soul of the Franklin Street School This Carriage House Gallery exhibit depicts the landscape and architecture of historically segregated schools in northern states in 50 photographs by nationally renowned New Jersey photographer Wendel White. Also included is an exhibit highlighting the life and soul of Cape May’s Franklin Street School. Free admission. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, through April 14; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, April 15. For information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278.

Ongoing Tours and Events

Cape May Family Treasure Hunt Discover the fun of exploring Cape May and uncovering its architectural elements from a kid’s perspective. Packet includes clues sheet and map that will take you on a self-guided discovery tour, set to your own pace (answer sheet also included). Available in the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. $5 per packet (Only one packet is needed per family). Also available at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth during hours of operation.

Cape May Lighthouse and Museum Shop 1859 structure with 199 steps to watch gallery for a panoramic view of the Jersey Cape and Atlantic Ocean. Open daily 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Museum Shop carries souvenirs, books, videos and other maritime items. Open daily, hours vary. Cape May Point State Park, Lower Township. Admission to the Visitors’ Orientation Center and the ground floor of the Lighthouse is free. Tower admission is $7 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12).

Carriage House Café & Tearoom Gracious, yet casual, dining returns to the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. A new a la carte menu for 2012 includes signature salads, wraps, paninis and tea sandwiches, as well as homemade soups and quiche, plus the popular Classic Tea Luncheon and a new kids’ menu. If you have a busy schedule, everything is available for takeout, too. Re-opens for the season April 27; Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. For reservations call 609-884-5111.

Carriage House Gallery Shop Located in the Carriage House on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., the Carriage House Gallery Shop is stocked with unique themed items, from teapots, teas, tea-related merchandise, jewelry, books, and decorative items, all with that distinctive Cape May style. Open daily, hours vary. Closed Easter Sunday, April 8. The Carriage House Gallery is fully-accessible and proceeds benefit the on-going restoration and preservation efforts of the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC).

Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tours Guided trolley tour of Cape May’s Historic District, followed by a guided tour of Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., with the new theme in 2012 beginning April 27: “What Those Victorians Wore.” Offered daily. Hours vary. Tour leaves from Washington Street Mall Information Booth. $18 for adults, $10 for children (ages 3-12).

Emlen Physick Estate Tour New theme in 2012 begins on April 27: “What Those Victorians Wore.” Enjoy this entertaining and educational guided tour of Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate at 1048 Washington St. Offered daily. Hours vary. $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12).

Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour Board a MAC trolley tour for a 45-minute evening ride through the haunted streets of Cape May. The paranormal findings of ghost writer Craig McManus come alive as your guide translates McManus’ spooky stories. Ride past the flickering gas street lamps, the haunted properties of Cape May and experience the spine-tingling tales exposed by McManus. Offered Fridays, April 13 & 20 at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., Friday, April 27 at 7:45 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., Saturdays, April 7, 14 & 21 at 8:30 p.m. and April 28 at 8:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. $10 for adults and $7 for children (ages 3-12).

Historic District Trolley Tours Get acquainted with Cape May on a trolley tour as knowledgeable guides present entertaining and educational stories about the nation’s oldest seashore resort. Offered daily. Hours vary. $10 for adults and $7 for children (ages 3-12).

Historic Haunts Combo Tour Combine the Ghosts of Cape May trolley tour with a visit to the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, where you will visit a home séance room of the 1890s and learn of the Victorians’ fascination with spiritualism. Saturdays at 7:15 p.m. $20 for adults, $15 for children (ages 3-12).

Self-Guided Audio Tour of Cape May Discover the Historic District of Victorian Cape May at your own pace with Acoustiguide Inform hand-held units. Tour comes complete with a map and index for 96 historic buildings on 69 sites. Available in the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., daily, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Rental fee is $10 per unit.

Self-guided Wine Trail Spend the afternoon touring the wineries of Cape May County. Visit Natali Vineyards and Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery and taste wines at each. Admission is $8 and includes a map with the wineries listed and a tasting glass. Offered daily, noon to 5 p.m. Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth or the Hill House office or the Carriage House Visitor’s Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., during hours of operation.

Winery Cellar Tour and Tasting Spend an afternoon at the award-winning Cape May Winery. Includes a barrel tasting accompanied by cheese and fruit and a complimentary tasting glass. Offered Saturdays at 3 p.m. $20 per person. Purchase tickets in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth or the Hill House office or the Carriage House Visitor’s Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., during hours of operation.

World War II Tower Lookout Museum and Memorial (Fire Control Tower No. 23) A Museum and Memorial. Fire Control Tower No. 23 on Sunset Boulevard is New Jersey’s last freestanding World War II tower, part of the immense Harbor Defense of the Delaware system known as Fort Miles. After the award-winning restoration, visitors can climb to the 6th floor spotting gallery while reliving the homeland defense efforts during World War II. The ground floor of the tower is fully accessible. Open Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $5 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-12).

Schedules are subject to change. Please go to www.capemaymac.org for the most current schedule. The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Cape May’s Victorian heritage. MAC also fosters the performing arts. MAC membership is open to all. For information about MAC’s year-round schedule of tours, festivals, and special events, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278, or visit MAC’s Web site at capemaymac.org.

Adventure Aquarium offers a day of fun for the whole family.
Adventure Aquarium has opened KidZone--an interactive experience that encourages children 6 and under to connect with nature by getting hands-on! No matter your age, you'll want to jump, climb and play your way through Adventure Aquarium's all new KidZone.
Adventure Aquarium, located at 1 Aquarium Drive on the waterfront in Camden, is open from 9:30am to 5pm daily; admission is $21.95 for adults and $17.95 for children ages 2-12 (prices do not include 7% NJ sales tax). You can avoid ticket lines by buying and printing your tickets directly from their website. For more information, call 856-365-3300 or go toAdventureAquarium.com.

Step back in time with a tour of Pomona Hall and the Camden County History Museum on Thursday or Sunday, or by appointment. The first tour begins at noon; the last is at 3:30pm. Hosted by the Camden County Historical Society; Pomona Hall is located at 1900 Park Blvd. in Camden. Please call 856-964-3333 or go to cchsnj.com for more information.

Howell Living History Farm has some exciting events this weekend. On Saturday, April 14, don't miss Spring Tillage Wagon Tours. Free wagon tours of Howell Living History Farm's spring plowing operations will leave from the farmyard continuously from 10:30am until 3pm, taking visitors to fields where farmers will be plowing with horses and circa 1900 equipment. Rides last approximately 20 minutes and are given on a first come, first serve basis. Tours will be narrated. And on Sunday, April 15, from noon until 4pm, check out the Arrival of the Barn Swallows.
Howell Living History Farm is located at 70 Wooden's Lane in Lambertville. For more information, call 609-737-3299 or visit their website at howellfarm.org.

Camden Children’s Garden has reopened for the season! The Garden is a 4.5-acre garden designed for children and families as a special place to explore & discover nature. The eight themed gardens, amusements, and Butterfly House provide horticultural experiences for creative & imaginative play.
Saturday & Sunday, April 14 & 15, don't miss Dino Day & Bug Bonanza Family Festival, from 1-4pm. Celebrate dinosaurs and insects while digging for fossils in our popular Dino Garden. This festival includes educational activities, a fun planting activity, and themed crafts.
Camden Children’s Garden is open Friday through Sunday (and Thursdays in July & August), and is located on the waterfront in Camden. The Garden is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission is $6 per person, and free for children two and younger. There is a modest additional fee for the three amusement rides. School Group rates are available, as well as family memberships. Additional information is available online at camdenchildrensgarden.org, or by calling 856-365-TREE.

The Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial is open every day for walk-up guided and audio tours from 9:30am to 3pm.
The Battleship will always open for scheduled group tours, special events and meeting space, and overnight encampments during weekdays in March. For more information or to schedule a visit, call 1-866-877-6262 ext. 144.
Located on the Delaware River, along the Camden Waterfront across from the City of Philadelphia, the Battleship offers the award-winning Overnight Encampment program. Scouts, youth organizations and families can enjoy dinner and breakfast served from the crew’s galley, a tour of the battleship, a ride on the flight simulator and the chance to sleep in the same bunks that the crew of the USS New Jersey once did. Reserve your bunk today! Call 1-866-877-6262 ext. 203. For more information, call 866-877-6262 or visit the Battleship at battleshipnewjersey.org.

Pay It Forward
Ways you and your family can reach out and make our South Jersey community an even better place! (If you have an event you’d like us to include here, e-mail the details to editor@southjersey.com)

Saturday and Sunday, April 14 & 15: Antique Show Benefiting YMCA of Burlington & Camden Counties, at the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties. Features more than 30 of the Tri-State Region’s finest antique dealers. Proceeds benefit the YMCA of Burlington & Camden Counties Community Support Campaign. call Pam Hall at 856-234-6200 Ext: 232 or go to www.ymca-bc.org

Gloucester County College presents DancElectric in Current Event Saturday, April 14, starting at 8pm in the College’s renovated Fine Arts Center. DancElectric is a non-profit stage group that fundraises on behalf of the fine and performing arts. All proceeds from “Current Event” will be donated to the Gloucester County College Foundation Scholarship Fund. This year’s performance will include jazz, ballet, modern, tap, lyrical, hip hop and Irish step dancing. Each year, proceeds are allocated to an academic scholarship and a books scholarship – which are presented to GCC students involved in the arts – in addition to the College’s Foundation Scholarship Fund. Tickets are $18 per person in advance and $20 at the door, and can be purchased at the Corrine Gangi Dance Center in Pitman or by calling 856-589-4840. Tickets and additional information about the GCC Foundation are also available by calling 856-681-6202. More information about DancElectric can be found on their Web site at gangidance.com/dancelectric.html. Gloucester County College’s 250-acre campus is located on Tanyard Road in Deptford, just off Exit 56 of Route 55.

Saturday, April 14, check out the Oceanville Volunteer Fire Company # 1 Spring Ham or Oyster Dinner. Please join us for our Spring Ham or Oyster dinner on April 14, between 4 and 8pm. Take out/dine-in is available. For more information, go to gtfd.org or call Mike at 609-652-7617.

Join Warrior Fitness Gym in Hainesport, on Saturday, April 14, to try their signature Bootcamp style workout! This workout is open to all ages and experience levels. Registration begins at 11:30am; workout is from noon to 1pm. Suggested donation is $25. All proceeds will go to support Burlington Emergency and Community Services. Warrior Fitness Gym is located in the Hainesport Business Complex, at 4004 Sylon Boulevard, Hainesport. For more information, go to WarriorFitness.org.

© SouthJersey.com 2012. All rights reserved. This article or parts thereof may not be reprinted or reproduced by any other party without the express written consent of SouthJersey.com. For more information, please call 856-797-9910.

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Author: R. Cohen

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