Camden, NJ – In an effort to encourage students, faculty and office workers in downtown Camden to patronize restaurants in Camden’s commercial districts, the Latin American Economic Development Association, Inc. (LAEDA) hosted its first Dine Around Friday event on Friday November 15, 2013 at San Lucas Mexican Restaurant on Federal Street in East Camden, NJ.
“Camden has such a rich mix of cultures in its neighborhoods,” said Raymond Lamboy, President & CEO of LAEDA. “The best way to get a
taste of them is at the various restaurants around the city.” LAEDA in addition to its successful Entrepreneurship Development Training Program (EDTP), works in the commercial districts to encourage revitalization strategies like the “Dine Around Friday” Events.
The Commercial District Revitalization Initiative (CDRI) is one part of LAEDA’s three part comprehensive economic development strategy. “The neighborhood commercial districts of the City of Camden are the best place to encourage business startups and small business attraction. When these districts are successful, they create jobs, pay taxes and add to the vibrant fabric of the city.” said Lamboy. ““Dine Around” Events are an effort to showcase our diverse food offerings to the wider community and bring new customers to these districts.”
At Friday’s Dine Around, about 13 Rutgers students and faculty met up at San Lucas Mexican Restaurant on Federal Street in the East Camden section of the city. They were treated to their choice of traditional Burritos, Quesadillas or Tortas and all the chips and salsa they could eat. Students enjoyed the atmosphere and practiced a little Spanish during the event.
Gayle Christenson a Program Coordinator for Rutgers summed up the importance of the event for Camden small businesses, “It is important for students, faculty and office workers from downtown t
o dine at the various restaurants in the city. Their combined economic impact will make all the difference for these small businesses.”
“Our ultimate goal is to connect these commercial districts with Camden’s waterfront attractions. Thousands of visitors come to Camden each year, but very few venture out to the restaurants and shops in these districts,” said Lamboy. “The hope is that people will stop on Federal Street for authentic Mexican food before a ballgame or enjoy a meal at Corrine’s on Haddon Ave. after a concert.”
For more information on future “Dine Around Friday” events, check LAEDA event calendar on its website at www.LAEDA.com or call 856-338-1177.