Hidden between the bustling cities of New York and Philadelphia, the jigsaw puzzle-shaped state of New Jersey is home to an extraordinary crew of children, known as the "Book Buccaneers." Lead by their enchanting captain, a cool imaginary character named Jovial Jersey, the Book Buccaneers are famous for their love for reading. Jersey, with his flamboyantly tall hat and eyeglasses as large as pizza pies, is no ordinary captain. With a hearty laugh that sounds like a mix between a hiccup and a sneeze, he guides the kids through uncharted territories of imagination and knowledge, sailing on a ship made entirely of books! These swashbuckling, book-loving kids hail from the sandy beaches of Cape May to the towering cliffs of the Palisades. Their adventures take them through the Pine Barrens, where they read about mythical creatures under the whispering pines, and to the streets of Princeton, where they browse through stories in the university's ancient libraries. A diverse crew they are, with each Buccaneer passionate about a different genre. Some are cupcake-faced detectives who solve mysteries just by flipping pages, while others are pony-tailed princesses who dive into enchanting fairy tales. Yet, they all share the same thrilling love for words, pages, and the magic that springs from them. The Book Buccaneers can turn even the grumpiest of grown-ups into giggling bookworms with their infectious enthusiasm for reading. They live by Jovial Jersey's motto, "The more you read, the more you know. The more you know, the further we can sail!" So, if you ever visit the Garden State, keep an eye out for these book-loving pirates, they might just whisk you away on an unbelievable reading adventure!
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Chi-Slam Table Tennis Club (Age 6–Adult) is Chicago’s premier table tennis destination, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels—from beginners just getting started to advanced competitors. Founded in 2003 and located at 2412 W. North Ave, Chi-Slam offers everything a table tennis enthusiast could want: one-on-one and youth lessons, open play sessions, league play, table rentals, and even pro shop selections like Butterfly equipment. Lessons are tailored by Coach Ardy, who brings over 20 years of experience and a passion for teaching that not only builds skill but also fosters confidence, coordination, and competitive spirit. Whether you’re looking for a fun after-school activity or serious training for tournaments, Chi-Slam delivers a community-oriented, energetic environment that makes every swing count.
The municipal library of Hillsdale, New Jersey, had its beginning as an association library in 1935. The township was formed in 1898 and previously had not possessed a library. It was not until a W.P.A. class in public speaking conducted by Elsie Hubachek (who was later a councilwoman) that support for a library took root and began to grow. A member of the class, Sarah Vander Clute, spoke on the subject of books. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and at that moment the decision to form a town library was made. Members of the class formed a committee and met with local citizens. Judge Walter J. McIntyre, an attorney, who subsequently served as a trustee for 35 years until his retirement in 1970, gave legal advice and was chairman of the public meeting. Judge McIntyre chose six library trustees and a library association, with a membership fee of one dollar, was formed. A vacant store on the main street was rented. Members of the library worked to get the building in order, washing windows, scrubbing floors, mending and cataloging books, building bookshelves. Books were donated from everywhere, including a loan collection from the State Library. Gifts and proceeds from card parties, movie benefits, and a play, The Haunted House, given by the Hillsdale Players, kept the project on its feet. The Free Public Library was opened to the people of the town on January 27, 1936. In eight months the number of borrowers was 752, a good representation from a total population of approximately 3100.