PENNSAUKEN TOWNSHIP, NJ (KYW Newsradio) — There’s a new piazza, bocce court, and statue at Cooper River Park to honor Italian American heritage. This is part of Camden County’s plan to include cultural education as part of the recreational activities at the park.
“It’s a great place to reflect, and it’s really a spot where we’re hoping others learn about the Italian culture,” County Commissioner Director Lou Cappelli, Jr. said.
The bocce court, located near LaScala Birra restaurant, is named after his father Lou Cappelli, Sr.
Lou Jr. said his dad died about seven years ago, and he would be so proud of what the park has become.
“This is part of a park where we have recognized many different nationalities, and so having a spot like this for Italian-Americans is very special,” Cappelli Jr. said.
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He also points out that there are plenty of other cultures represented at the park and if someone was to read each monument here, they would learn quite a bit about cultures of the world, sort of like EPCOT without Mickey Mouse.
One of the cool features of the bocce court is that it’s accessible.
Karen Widener, who runs recreational programs for kids and adults with disabilities for Camden County, said this will be a regular visit for them.
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“Bocce was added … about two years ago, but we never played outside. So this is just fantastic,” Widener said. “We’re out here having a great time.”
The initial plan is for bocce balls to be provided in an honor box.
There is a big party scheduled for the new piazza on Saturday to kick off Italian Heritage Month.