F rom Plainfield City Hall
  Mayor Adrian O. Mapp
One Plainfield.  One Future.
We, the citizens of City of Plainfield, join the people of Baltimore and the rest of the nation in mourning the loss of Freddie Gray, a young Black man who died from spinal cord injuries after being arrested by officers of the Baltimore Police Department. Let's remember this timely phrase by Dr.Martin Luther King: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."    
Here are this week's updates:
  • The Whitehouse - Baltimore Riots
  • Policy Day on the Hill: U.S. Department of Commerce
  • State of New Jersey - New Jersey Equine and Agriculture Expo
  • Union County - Fiscal Hearing #4
  • Public Affairs and Safety Update
  • Economic Development Update
  • Administration and Finance Update
  • Department of Public Works and Urban Development
  • Division of Parks and Recreation
  • Plainfield Education Update
  • Workforce Development
  • Plainfield Learning Center
  • Plainfield Road Closure Notice
  • Resources
  • Arts and Culture

Creating One Plainfield - One Future,

Mayor Adrian O. Mapp
City of Plainfield
White House: Baltimore Riots
President Obama on Baltimore Riots (C-SPAN)
President Obama on Baltimore Riots (C-SPAN)

 

In the wake of the Baltimore riots, President Obama said during a news conference "...as a society, Americans have disregarded the dire poverty, unemployment, drugs and crime that have provided combustible material for protests over the excessive use of force by police in cities throughout the United States." 




 
Policy Day on the Hill : U.S. Department of Justice
I am doing my part in helping to acquire programs and
resources for the City of Plainfield by staying abreast of the Obama Administration's agenda items and collaborating with departments within the Federal Government. This week my focus is  on an initiative of the US Department of Commerce known as the Transportation Empowerment Pilot - Ladders of Opportunity. I have provided an excerpt from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) website.  The entire content can be accessed by clicking on the link below.  The LaddersSTEP  program will help build and restore connections, develop workforce capacity, and catalyze neighborhood revitalization. DOT is launching the Ladders of Opportunity Transportation Empowerment Pilot in seven U.S. cities.   LadderS TEP  will provide technical assistance and work to attract public and private resources to game-changing community transportation projects. By bringing together mayors and other local officials, non-profit organizations and private investors, DOT will demonstrate that Ladders Of Opportunity goals are well within reach of communities across America.

Transportation Empowerment Pilot. (n.d.). Retrieved April 30, 2015, from http://www.dot.gov/ladders/tep
 
NJ State: New Jersey Equine and Agriculture Expo

NEW JERSEY EQUINE AND AGRICULTURE EXPO 2015 TO TAKE PLACE MAY 9-10

Photo of a horse - Click to enlarge
For Immediate Release: March 23, 2015
 
Contact: Lynne Richmond 
(609) 633-2954
(TRENTON) - The 2015 New Jersey Equine and Agriculture Expo will be held May 9 and 10 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Horse Park of New Jersey at Stone Tavern, 626 Route 524, Allentown. The Expo, sponsored by the New Jersey Equine Advisory Board, will be held in conjunction with the 2015 Jersey Fresh Three Day event.

For kids, there will be a petting farm and pony rides. The Allentown FFA will be selling plants and flowers, as well as teaching children to plant seeds that the kids will be able to keep. The State 4-H will be offering Jersey Fresh Three Day Event logo merchandise, face painting, and agricultural games.

The Pony Club will be hosting quiz competitions and a team presentation. Additionally, there will be interactive exhibits about horses and agriculture.

There are 96,000 acres in New Jersey devoted solely to equine operations and the state's 42,500 horses and related service industries add $3.2 billion dollars annually to the state's economy.
  
Lynne Richmond,. NEW JERSEY EQUINE AND AGRICULTURE EXPO 2015 TO TAKE PLACE MAY 9-10. 2015. Web. 28 Apr. 2015.
 
Senator Cory Booker Urges FEMA to Reevaluate NJ's Threat Score

The following press release from Senator Cory Booker's office highlights the annual assessment and profile of New Jersey. It explains how the results could decrease access to FEMA's preparedness grant funding:

 

 WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Cory Booker D-N.J., member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate expressing deep concerns regarding FEMA's preliminary FY2015 Annual Risk Assessment and Profile of New Jersey. The assessment would lower New Jersey's threat score and therefore could also decrease the state's access to FEMA preparedness grant funding. "This loss will directly affect the state's ability to invest in strategic preventative measures and protective activities. Therefore, as FEMA completes its final assessment, I request FEMA consider a reevaluation of the downgrade. Given its population density, infrastructure of national significance, chemical plants, and refineries, New Jersey does not merit a reduced threat score," Sen. Booker wrote.

 

The letter continues, "As you are aware, FEMA grants contribute to and enhance New Jersey's security and preparedness through strategic investments in critical infrastructure, law enforcement, and preventative measures designed to combat terrorism. As the most densely populated state in the nation - with 565 municipalities and 591 school districts - these preparedness grants are invaluable to public safety in New Jersey."

 

"Sen. Booker Urges FEMA to Reevaluate New Jersey's Threat Score." N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Apr. 2015. 

 
Union County:  Third Annual Union County Women Mean Business summit 

Announcement: Union County, NJ - There is still time to register for the third annual Union County Women Mean Business summit on Wednesday May 13, 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the Clubhouse at Union County's Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth.

 

Hundreds of participants attended the first two events in the series, which is designed to help women grow their business networks and build critical skills.

This year the Union County Women Mean Business summit includes a full day of workshops covering critical topics for success including leadership and public speaking, networking via social media, and negotiating. Kristina Hahn, head of packaged consumer goods at Google, will deliver the keynote speech.

The ticket price of $40.00 per person includes the full program, lunch, a networking cocktail hour (cash bar), and prize opportunities including round trip air fare.

 

To register online visit ucnj2.org/ucmb, or call 908-659-7412 if you have any questions about the event.

 

Union County. Join the "Union County Women Mean Business" Networking Event. N.p., 28 Apr. 2015. Web. 28 Apr. 2015. 

 
Moody's Upgrade of Plainfield
An improved financial outlook for Plainfield was issued by Moody's Investors Service, a leading provider of credit ratings, prior to the transaction helped the bonds sell at a premium. Read below for specifics.



 

Mayor Mapp Recognizes Local Art Student
  
Mayor Adrian O. Mapp and duCret student Lauren Nazco show off  her winning logo design for the Queen City Art Festival.  Also pictured (l.tor.) are Lauren's mother; Frank Falotico, Director of duCret Art School, and Phil Laskowsko, Graphic Arts Instructor. 

Public Affairs and Safety Update

 

The well being and safety of every resident is a priority of my administration.   The team continues to find ways to strengthen relationships between the community and police force.  One of these initiatives is the Police Chaplain Program. A two-day training course was held on April 23 and 24, 2014 at the Plainfield Police Division for those interested in becoming Police Chaplains.  Participants received a Certificate for completing  "The Basic Chaplain Twelve Core Courses" Program.  This program creates a partnership with various faith-based leaders of a community to respond and assist police and other law enforcement agencies during times of crisis or incidents and when a more comprehensive response is viewed to be beneficial.   With training complete, Director Carl N. Riley will work with participants and announce a kick-off date for the Chaplains' program in the near future! 

Economic Development Update

Helping Local Businesses

The Economic Development (ED) staff continues to work with small businesses in Plainfield.   Recently, La Caravana Restaurant, which has been in the City for over 5 years, solicited the assistance of the ED office in finding a new, suitable site for relocation.  Within a short period of time the client had various appointments for locations around the City. As of this week, a Plainfield site has been agreed upon which keeps the business here.  If you are a business owner or looking to open a new business, please contact the Office of ED for guidance, assistance and cooperation to help you become a successful entrepreneur"

 

Current Economic Development Initiatives

The office of Economic Development is still offering free websites for your business through Google.  The Get Your Business On-Line (GYBO) Program is still looking for additional businesses to take advantage of this fantastic program which allows for the creation of a  "FREE" website for a year.  Please contact the office of ED for additional details and for one to one assistance in creating your new website.

 

In addition, The City of Plainfield Loan Fund Program, a public / private initiative with RBAC, is available to help Finance Small Business Growth & Development in the City.  Loan funds between $5,000 to $250,000 are available for start-up and/ or existing businesses for the development of a commercial real estate, inventory, equipment, furniture, marketing and working capital.   For additional details, visit the City's website at www.plainfieldnj.gov or call the office of ED at 908-226-2513.

 

Sign and Facade Program

We remind business owners that funds are still available from the Sign & Façade Grant Program. The program provides funding for the improvement and replacement of storefront signs and façade including new security gates, windows, awnings, entrances etc.  The Urban Enterprise Zone (UEPZ) Sign and Façade Program provides a  75% reimbursement of total project cost, up to a maximum of $25,000 per client.  Take advantage of this great program to help improve your store front today.  Applications are available on line or at the office of Economic Development.  For additional information call 908-226-2513.  


 

Community Development

On April 28, 2015, the Office of Community Development held their monthly service provider's meeting at City Hall.  This month's topic covered a serious issue which occurs in many communities across the country.  The presentation,  entitled "Sexual Abuse: Cultural Literacy and Economic Impact," was given by the Union County Rape Crisis Center representatives, Kathryn Cleary & Antionette Hill; and Sheila Jimenez, a Bilingual DV Counselor, from the YWCA of Eastern Union County.  The presentation was followed by a roundtable discussion. The meeting was well attended.                              

Administration and Finance Update




The City of Plainfield's Division of Health, in collaboration with New Jersey Cancer and Early Detection (NJCEED) Program, is offering FREE Cancer Screening for Women and Men.


Plainfield Action Service Presents Community Action Month
Department of Public Works and Urban Development Update
My administration is working hard to continue to improve the quality of life issues for the residents of Plainfield.  I am pleased to update you on the following additional summer pick-up dates:
 

Curbside collections of Brush & Yard Waste:

  • Residents received a spring mailer outlining pickup dates. An expanded schedule for the summer months was included. 

RESIDENT DROP-OFF SITE:

  • Residents are allowed to bring their vegetated yard waste to the Public Works Yard Monday thru Friday, 8 AM to 2 PM.  All rules apply.  Proper identification will be required. No commercial vehicles or grass clippings will be accepted.  Please call for additional information (908)753-3427.
  • Residents can view the mailer and restrictions at www.plainfieldnj.gov.   

RECREATIONAL SITES:

  • Turf management schedule started in early April.  Sports fields received aeration, seeding and chemical treatments.
  • Bathrooms were upgraded at Hanna Atkins, Seidler Field and Mathewson Playground.  They are completed and ready for the upcoming season.
  • Pool resurfacing of Seidler Field is underway and will be completed for this year's upcoming pool season.

POTHOLE NOTIFICATION:

  • Staff continues to respond to residents' request for pothole repairs.
  • Residents are asked to call our pothole hotline number (908)753-3427.
Division of Parks and Recreation is Working for our Youth and Seniors

 

Plainfield Education Update


 Plainfield Public Schools Graduation set for June 19

Superintendent of Schools Anna Belin-Pyles announced that the Plainfield Public Schools graduation day ceremony at 6:00 p.m. June 19th, at the Hub Stine Sporting Complex.  Inclement weather plans would move the Commencement Ceremonies to the Gymnasium with overflow areas in the Auditorium and the Cafeteria. Students and their families from Barack Obama Academy for Academic and Civic Development, Plainfield Academy for Arts and Advance Studies and Plainfield High School will receive invitations. The Commencement Exercises will feature all the pomp and circumstance that merits the event. Close to 373 students are expected to receive their diplomas.

 

Justin Sears, Keynote at Cedarbrook School, excelling at Yale University

Justin Sears returned to Plainfield this week to address fourth and fifth grade students at Cedarbrook School where Principal Gwynetta Joe, VP Wilson Martinez, and Melba Mullins held the first-ever sports awards night called "Books & Basketball Banquet."  Sears, a Plainfield native and Cook School alumni, took time from his final exams at Yale University to let the students know that they must set goals for themselves, develop confidence and honor their family.  He said, "You know? Mom and Dad do know everything." He was recently named Ivy League Player of the Year after setting records as a player on Yale University's Basketball team, the Bulldogs.  He has become the first Bulldog to win Ivy League Player of the Year since Paul Maley in 1988.  Sears lead the team in scoring (14.4 ppg.), rebounding (7.6 rpg.) and blocked shots (72).  He is among the top five in the Ivy League in several categories including scoring (4th), rebounding (3rd), blocked shots (2nd) and field goal percentage (5th, .507).  In November Sears was named the most valuable player at the Men against Breast Cancer Classic, helping the Yale Bulldogs to three wins in three days. Sears also earned first team All-Ivy recognition last winter, the first Yale sophomore to be named since Chris Dudley in 1985, and only the third in school history. Sears becomes one of eight multiple first team All-Ivy selections in Yale history.  Congratulations to Justin Sears!

 

Jarret Brown attains highest honor from Boy Scouts of America - Eagle Scout

Superintendent of Schools Anna Belin-Pyles and the Plainfield Board of Education honored Jarrett Brown for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, the Boy Scout of America's highest honor.  To complete the requirements for this designation, Mr. Barrett had to complete a community project.  His project involved cleaning and conducting an inventory of Brook Avenue Presbyterian Cemetery.  He not only completed the project but also was able to bring together the entire community including his family, friends, classmates, church and even the members of Home Depot, who generously donated shovels, rakes, and their own time. He also created a catalog to document his findings which included tombs belonging to an historical Union County Family, the Vermuele Family, which dated back to the 1830s. This is a great achievement and on behalf of the entire Plainfield community, we thank Jarret Brown!

 

Annual regional Family Success Center Conference

The Family Success Centers Coalition held their annual regional conference in Elizabeth, New Jersey on Wednesday, April 17, 2015.  The conference attendees included families who receive services from the Centers as well as program personnel, social service agencies, local and state government representatives and community stakeholders.  The Coordinators of Student Intervention and Family Support Services and the Family Success Center, presented at the conference and also facilitated a parent workshop entitled School Resources for Students, What Every Parent Should Know. To reach the PPSD Family Success Center please call Stacy Greene at 908-731-4272.

Workforce Development
USPS is Hiring - Save the Date! USPS (U.S. Postal Service) Job Fair
May 20, 2015    4pm-7pm
Plainfield City Hall

NJ State Department of Labor
The Department of Labor and Workforce Development has a listing of job fairs and resources for job seekers.

 

Job Fair: Hosted by Assemblyman Joe Danielsen

The Middlesex Regional Chamber of Commerce, and The Imperia

Date: Tuesday May 5, 2015

Time: 10 AM to 2 PM

Location: The Imperia 1714 Easton Avenue, Somerset, NJ 08873

 

If you would like to attend as a job seeker, please RSVP to link below:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/job-seekers-rsvp-job-fair-hosted-by-assemblyman-joe-danielsen-tickets-16469805632

 

If you would like to host a FREE table, please RSVP to link below (Please note, we only have space for 65 vendors):

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/company-rsvp-job-fair-by-asm-joe-danielsen-mcrcc-the-imperia-tickets-16189185289

 

 

Plainfield Learning Center

Thinking About Growing Your Business? SBA's 504 Loan Program Can Help


Thinking About Growing Your Business? SBA's 504 Loan Program Can Help
Thinking About Growing Your Business? SBA's 504 Loan Program Can Help

Why Vaccinating Your Children is Important

The recent measles outbreak demonstrates how quickly a nearly-eliminated disease can spread.

 

World Immunization Week serves as a great opportunity to learn more how vaccines save lives. Did you know that vaccines for children prevent 16 diseases that persist in other nations?

 

Vaccines work best when most members of a community are vaccinated; protect your kids and others by following a vaccine schedule according to their age. If you're worried about the safety of vaccines, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website and get the facts.


GI Go Fund: Jeans for Troops Day

In honor of Memorial Day - On May 21, 2015, join the millions of participants nationwide wearing Jeans to support our troops.  Starting Monday, May 4, 2015, at Plainfield City Hall - Mayor's Office, you can show your support by making a $5 donation with the proceeds benefiting the GI Go Fund. Please note, Plainfield City Hall will recognize and wear jeans on Friday, May 22, 2015.


 
16th Annual Jazz Brunch

Plainfield Road Closure Notice 
Please note the roadway closure schedule for Park Avenue and Watchung Avenue:
  • Watchung Avenue - April 20 through July 20 (approximately 3 months)
 
Arts and Culture
Frontiers International Westry Horne Cultural and Heritage Series Schedule 

The purpose of this series is to educate and provide space for intergenerational dialogues on topics of African American history and culture.

 

Click Here for Complete Schedule



duCret School of Art

duDret School of Art
Presents the Annual Student Spring Art Show
May 3rd-8th, 2015
2PM-4PM
Opening Reception: May 3, 2015
An evening of art!  Bring the family and tour the school.  Meet student artists and faculty, while viewing or purchasing original artwork and jewelry.  Enjoy music and refreshments.
Help Us Spread the Word
Please have family and friends sign up to receive these important weekly updates.  They can sign up by calling (908) 753-3310 and providing their email address.
Have a Great Weekend!

Volume 2 - Issue 17