KotoriCon and the Library

For many of us, the cold weather has kept us bundled up, indoors and maybe a little bored. Venture out this weekend because there's so much to discover—like why our local library is a cool place to visit and anime and Japanese culture at KotoriCon. It's also closing weekend for The King and I, fun for tweens at BounceU and there are sports-themed events that will either have you in the action or enjoying the game from your seat.

We've picked great weekend events that should handle anyone's cries of boredom.

Library Fun

• Where/When: , 215 S. Black Horse Pike, Blackwood; tonight, 6:30 p.m., Friday, 2:30 p.m., Monday, 4 p.m.
• What's Going On: The library gives us three entertaining events for today, Friday and Monday. Tonight, there is evening story time for the little ones. This event is geared towards the pre-K and kindergarten crowd. The library suggests kids come in their pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal while they listen to bedtime stories. On Friday, the library hosts Wii Bowling for adults, with all skill levels welcome. On Monday, the library offers up bingo, an event ideal for children in grade school. Registration is recommended for all events.
• Price: Free

The King & I

• Where/When: The Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St., Philadelphia; today, 2 and 8 p.m., Friday, 8 p.m., Saturday, 2 and 8 p.m., Sunday, 2 p.m.
• What's Going On: The King and I is a classic tale of a British governess named Anna who travels to the court of Siam to tutor the King's many children. At first Anna doesn't like or understand the King and his culture. The King is just as baffled by Anna and her Western ways. The two fall in love and music accompanies their journey. "Getting to Know You," "I Whistle a Happy Tune,” and "Shall We Dance" are popular songs from this amazing show. This is the last weekend for this production. 
• Price: Tickets range from $10 to $95 (plus applicable fees)

KotoriCon

• Where/When: Pitman High School, 25 Linden Ave., Pitman; Friday, The Opening VIP Show, 6:30 to 9 p.m.; Gloucester County College, 1400 Tanyard Rd., Sewell; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• What's Going On: Check out the third annual KotoriCon, put on by Gloucester County College's Japanese Anime and Gaming Club and Student Life. The school's website boasts this two-day event will feature three bands, Taiko drummers, comedians, martial artists educational panels, workshops, and contests. Special guest Johnny Yong Bosch, the star of Power Rangers, will be there to meet fans and sing with his band (visit the Friday night VIP show). There will be game tournaments, contests and a charity auction. An added bonus to this awesome event? The students are raising funds for Direct Relief International to assist those suffering from the earthquakes in Turkey and the aftermath of the disasters in Japan. They are also donating funds to Mothers Matter, a local charity assisting families in the area. Tickets can be purchased here.
• Price: Tickets range from $12 to $37 (plus any applicable fees)

Cosmic Bounce Tween Night

• Where/When: , 1271 Little Gloucester Rd., Blackwood; Friday, 8 to 10 p.m.
• What's Going On: Visit BounceU this Friday night if you have a tween nine years old and above. Per the BounceU website, tweens can be dropped off and supervision will be provided. There will be music, unlimited beverages, and lots of bouncing on the many inflatables at this venue. Reservations are required for this two-hour event because space is limited. First come, first served.
• Price: $10 per tween, add pizza for just $2 more (plus tax and applicable fees)

Bowling Anyone?

• Where/When: Brunswick Zone, 100 American Boulevard, Turnersville (Blackwood); After-school bowling, Friday, 2 to 5:30 p.m., late-night bowling, Friday, 12 to 2 a.m., Saturday, cosmic bowling, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., Sunday, 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
• What's Going On: Brunswick Zone has something for everyone this Friday through Sunday. The kids can stop by after school on Friday, while the grown-ups can have late-night fun the rest of the weekend. There are drink specials, music and lights for all to appreciate. And, yes—bowling is a sport.
• Price: Sunday through Thursday and Saturday, games are less than $5; Friday night, $10 gets you two hours of cosmic bowling, shoe rental, prizes, contests, and more (plus tax and applicable fees)

Stone Grille: A Place to Watch the Game

• Where/When: , 1300 Blackwood Clementon Rd., Clementon; Sunday, 1 p.m. to closing (midnight) 
• What's Going On: I won't pretend to know who is playing football on Sunday, but I know someone is playing. The Stone Grille has an NFL playoffs special going on this Sunday. The restaurant's website lists 50 ¢ wings and discounted beers. 
• Price: Specials range from 50 ¢ to $3.75