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Hello, Cherry Hill! 👋 Cherry Hill Public Schools Superintendent Kwame Morton last night worked to alleviate concerns after a suggested policy regarding parental approval for students to check out certain library books caused a stir. Also this week, the $7.5 million Kresson Road construction project is underway, Party City stores are returning in a revamped format, plus a local restaurant is serving Thanksgiving dinner for those who prefer to dine out. If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. At last night’s Board of Education meeting, Cherry Hill Public Schools Superintendent Kwame Morton worked to allay concerns from parents over an internal memo that said schools may begin requiring parental permission for students to check out “sensitive” books. The memo, sent to media specialists by the district’s director of curriculum and instruction on Oct. 31 and obtained by The Inquirer, drew concern from parents, as well as a member of the New Jersey chapter of Media Literacy Now program. In a statement to the school community after The Inquirer’s story, Morton was clear on one thing: “We are not banning any books in the district.” He doubled down on that sentiment last night, saying, “The district is not seeking to censor or ban any books. We are not providing or requiring any parent permission slips or anything of that nature.” He also noted that he met with some school media specialists Tuesday, who gave him suggested protocols on book selection, though he didn’t provide specifics, The Inquirer’s Melanie Burney reports. Read more about the internal memo that’s sparked concerns, and what some parents are saying. 💡 Community News 🏫 Schools Briefing 🍽️ On our Plate 🎳 Things to Do 🍷 Jazz and Bossa Wine Dinner: Take a trip to the Mediterranean by way of this themed dinner at Infused Restaurant and Bar, which features jazz and bossa nova music from Kelli Glover, plus a three-course meal paired with four wines. Other pairing options are also available. ⏰ Thursday, Nov. 13, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 💵 $53.17-$229.51 📍 Infused Restaurant and Bar 💃 The Life of a Showgirl Skate Party: Skate to Taylor Swift tunes and dress in your best showgirl costume for a chance to win her latest album on vinyl. ⏰ Friday, Nov. 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 💵 $14 admission 📍 Hot Wheelz 🪩 Friday Unleashed: Kick off the weekend at this dance party, which includes a special appearance by Joseline’s Cabaret. ⏰ Friday, Nov. 14, 7-10 p.m. 💵 $19.03 📍 Vera 🍾 50 Years of Friendship: The Friends of Barclay Farmstead are celebrating the organization’s 50th anniversary with hors d’oeuvres, dessert, a silent auction, and a first look at the farmstead decked out for the holidays. ⏰ Saturday, Nov. 15, 2-6 p.m. 💵 $50 📍 Barclay Farm 🎶 Rhythm & Brews: This 21-and-over event is an unplugged jam night with beer, wine, and snacks. Bring your own instrument — or just your voice. ⏰ Saturday, Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m. 💵 $18 📍 Congregation Kol Ami 🦃 Crafter Hours: Kids in sixth through 12th grade can learn to make a tissue-paper turkey that looks like stained glass. Registration is required. ⏰ Wednesday, Nov. 19, 7-8 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Cherry Hill Library 🏡 On the Market Located within the Ellisburg section of Cherry Hill, this home has undergone a number of updates, including to its kitchen. It features a living room, a kitchen with white cabinetry offset by black-and-white granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, and an adjoining family room with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and a fireplace. It has four bedrooms, including an in-law or guest suite with a separate entrance, a living area, and a kitchenette. Other features include a finished basement, a fenced yard, and an above-ground pool. There’s an open house Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. See more photos of the property here. Price: $595,000 | Size: 2,285 SF 🗞️ What other Cherry Hill residents are reading this week: By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.
