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I am pleased to inform you that after five months of Republican delays, Loretta Lynch was confirmed as the United States Attorney General on Thursday (4/23/2015). She will replace Attorney Eric Holder who announced his retirement last fall. Attorney Lynch has made history as the first Black woman to hold this important cabinet post.
Here are this week's updates:
- The Whitehouse - Climate Change
- Policy Day on the Hill: U.S. Department of Commerce
- State of New Jersey - The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA)
- Union County - Fiscal Hearing #4
- Public Affairs and Safety Update
- Economic Development Update
- Administration and Finance Update
- 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
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WhiteHouse: Climate Change
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| Weekly Address: Climate Change Can No Longer Be Ignored |
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Policy Day on the Hill : U.S. Department of Justice
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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 the US Department of Commerce and the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA).
One of the
President's
objectives for the national economy and commerce is to expand the footprint of minority owned businesses in the U.S. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2007 survey of business owners, minority owned businesses contributed to the $1 trillion in overall economic activity and put to work nearly six million Americans. These findings illustrate the
significant contributions of minority businesses and their role in driving the national economy.
The MBDA helps minority businesses reach their potential through technical assistance, public and private contracting opportunities, research, advocacy, and education. It is the only federal agency dedicated to the development and growth of our country's 5.8 million minority businesses. Since 2009, MBDA has accessed nearly $26 billion in contracts and capital. They also created and maintained more than 60,000 jobs.
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NJ State: The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance
Agency (NJHFMA) $1.4 Million to Support Foreclosure Prevention Counseling
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Trenton, NJ - The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) announced that it has received $1.4 million to support New Jersey's foreclosure prevention counseling efforts through the National Foreclosure Mitigation Counseling Program (NFMC). The much-needed funding will enable NJHMFA and its housing counseling partners to provide more foreclosure counseling to area homeowners. To find a participating housing counseling agency in New Jersey, visit NJHMFA's foreclosure webpage at www.njhousing.gov/foreclosure. A list of housing counselors can be found in the Foreclosure Fast Facts information guide.
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Congresswoman Introduces Bill to Limit IRS Wage Garnishments and Property Seizures
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Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman is fighting for everyday Americans. See the following excerpt discussing this new legislation and by clicking on the link below, you can read the article in its entirety:
Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-N.J., introduced legislation that would provide relief to low-income and economically vulnerable Americans who would otherwise be subject to wage garnishments by the Internal Revenue Service.
The Taxpayer Economic Hardship Protection Act of 2015 would codify procedures to ensure the IRS cannot issue levies, including wage garnishments, retirement account garnishments, or seizing of any property?against those who qualify as likely to experience economic hardship, defined as individuals with incomes at less than 250 percent of the federal poverty rate.
Click Here to Read Entire Online Article
Cohn, Michael. "Congresswoman Introduces Bill to Limit IRS Wage Garnishments and Property Seizures." Accounting Today. N.p., 23 Apr. 2015. Web. 23 Apr. 2015.
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We Are One New Jersey - Union County Center
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On Tuesday, April 21, 2015, I attended the grand opening of the state's second labor-supported immigrant advocacy center. This new center is located at the Jersey Gardens Mall. The center's partnership is between Union County and We Are One New Jersey - a nonprofit organization whose goal is to help legal immigrants in New Jersey become U.S. citizens.
They provide U.S. citizenship application assistance, including pre-classes for the citizenship test and referral, notary and translation services, at low- or no-cost to Union County residents.
The grand opening event for the We Are One New Jersey - Union County Center also helped launch the county's Workforce Innovation Business (WIB) Center. The Workforce Innovation Business center shares office space with We Are One New Jersey - Union County Center, and provides professional, job interview prep, and soft skills training, along with jobs placement for Union County residents.
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Union County: Fiscal Hearing #4
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The Union County budget process is an important component of the management of county funds that impact residents of Plainfield. I believe it is important for all of us to be up-to-date on this process. Click on the video below to lean more about the Union County budget process and how the county is planning to allocate funds.
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| Union County Finance Hearing #4 -Union County, NJ |
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Public Affairs and Safety Update
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March 15, 2015 marked the 30th Anniversary of the death of Plainfield Police Officer Abigail J. Powlett. She was killed in the line of duty on March 15, 1985. Officer Powlett was the mother of two children and a three-year veteran of the police force. On Saturday, April 18, 2015, a Memorial Ceremony was held by the Plainfield Police Benevolent Association#19, along with her family, friends and Police Academy classmates. With both Police and Fire Officers present, various City Officials and speakers, including Director Carl N. Riley, honored the slain officer. Police Captain Edward Santiago said "Officer Powlett's professionalism will forever remain in the memories of all who were privileged to have known her and to have worked with her," said Police Captain Edward Santiago. We will never forget Officer Powlett's ultimate sacrifice.
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Economic Development Update
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Another Plainfield Business Grand Opening
Zu Fitdance Studio opened its doors at 12 Washington Ave, Plainfield, NJ. They are open 7 days per week. Dance sessions are only $5.00 per session. "Now that the summer is here, party yourself into shape with ZUMBA by Wendy", said the owner.
Business Owner Profile:
Wendy Lizano is the proud owner of Zu Fitdance Studio.
Married to Juan Carlos Portero and mother of three kids, ages 12, 9 and 6. Wendy has over 5 yrs of experience. She started as a student and after losing more than 50 lbs. during the first year, she became interested in giving classes in a park in Dunellen. She then decided to get licensed as an instructor and began to teach additional classes indoor. Thanks to her mother's suggestion, she decided to open her own Zumba Studio in Plainfield.
For additional information and to reserve your spot call 908-380-6207
www.facebook.com/zumbafitnessforhealth
Sign and Facade Program
We remind business owners that funds are still available from the Sign & Fa?ade Grant Program. The program provides funding for the improvement and replacement of storefront signs and fa?ade including new security gates, windows, awnings, entrances etc. The Urban Enterprise Zone (UEPZ) Sign and Fa?ade 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.
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Administration and Finance Update
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The City of Plainfield 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
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Division of Parks and Recreation is Working for our Youth and Seniors
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The Division of Parks & Recreation is moving forward with great success in providing both active and leisure activities for active older adults throughout the city. To date, we have sponsored several successful bus trips. This coming Saturday, April 25, 2015, we will take our active older adults to the New Jersey Folk Festival which will be held at Rutgers University, Douglass College Campus. The Division is also currently offering Zumba/Chair Zumba at three of the City's senior buildings, as well as lunch time yoga at the Plainfield Public Library from 12:00 (noon) to 12:45pm. As of March 27, 2015, the Recreation Division ended its successful basketball program with championship games, followed by an awards banquet on Friday, April 17. Wrestling concluded its season on March 29, 2015. To all the kids and parents who participated, thank you for making it a wonderful 2014-2015 season. As we head into spring be sure to look for other recreational programs, such as swimming. Our parent/child (17 months - 5years) swim class provides guidance to children and their parents on how to develop their abilities and ways to protect their children from harm in, or around, the pool/water. Children will have an opportunity to explore a new environment while building skills and self-confidence. Both parent and child benefit from taking part in an experience that lets them learn and have fun together. This year we will also be offering a FREE arts and crafts program for children ages 5 to 12 years of age. The first class will be offered at the City Hall Annex on Saturday, May 2, 2015 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The event will be a Mother's Day arts and crafts workshop for kids. We are asking kids to bring a photograph of themselves and/or siblings for this craft project; we will use a photocopy of the picture. SPACE IS LIMITED. All recreation programs/activities can be found on Community Pass which can be accessed from www.plainfieldnj.gov. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Division of Parks & Recreation at (908) 753-3097.
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Plainfield Education Update
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GATES FOUNDATION VISIT TO EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM A team of educators from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation visited Plainfield Public School District's Early Childhood Program on Thursday, April 23 to learn and observe how the elements of high-quality education implemented in Plainfield's Early Education Program is successfully preparing preschoolers for kindergarten and the future. The group was greeted at the Black United Fund Health and Human Services II Preschool Center (BUF), 510 Grant Avenue, by Superintendent of Schools Anna Belin-Pyles, Sondra Clark, Director of BUF, Evelyn Motley, Director of Office of Early Childhood Programs and Services, Mayor Adrian Mapp, Board President, Wilma Campbell and other educational professionals from the Plainfield School District. "I am very proud of the success of our Early Childhood Program and this visit represents that the work being done in our District is "exemplary" thanks to our highly qualified and dedicated staff, childcare providers and our families who fully participate in the education of our youngest learners." PLAINFIELD HIGH SCHOOL 2015-2016 COURSE CATALOG POSTED The Plainfield High School Guidance Department has posted the 2015-2016 Course Catalog online for students to select their courses for the next school year. Gina Ogburn-Thompson, Vice Principal of Guidance, said it's the first time students will be using the Genesis Student Portal to make their requests. "Students take the lead on selecting courses electronically. They also have the ability to view individual requirements, recommendations and elective courses. Should they need assistance - students are encouraged to contact their counselor which they can also do through the student portal." All request must be submitted by May 8. For additional information visit: www.plainfieldnjk12.org PLAINFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS CELEBRATE EARTH DAY Students in the Plainfield Public School District celebrated Earth Day tending to their vegetable, flower and herb gardens. Emerson, Maxson and Hubbard students are growing cucumbers, tomatoes, green peppers, kale, beets, marigolds, and asters. The Barack Obama Academy for Academic and Civic Development high school students planted Red Bud ornamental trees and flowers to beautify their school. The District is doing its part. This year Plainfield Public Schools saved 7.7 Million kWh of electricity and 66,000 MMBTUs of natural gas. These savings are equal to 5,541 less metric tons of carbon dioxide in our environment and equal to removing 1,136 automobiles from our highways. |
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Union County Honors Plainfield Resident
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On March 20, 2015, accompanied by the First Lady, I attended the 2015 Union County Women of Excellence Awards Annual Awards Dinner at Galloping Hill Caterers. Join me, in congratulating Plainfield resident Cynthia Alexander as one of the recipients of the Union County Women of Excellence Awards. This award celebrates the diverse achievements of women who have distinguished themselves in professional or volunteer fields in Union County. |
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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.
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Plainfield Learning Center
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| Interview Tips - The Top 5 Job Interview Tips You NEED To Pay Attention To |
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| Microsoft Word Tips & Tricks: You Know Word, but Do You KNOW Word? |
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Plainfield Road Closure Notice
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Please note the roadway closure schedule for Park Avenue and Watchung Avenue:
- Park Avenue - March 30 through April 19 - open Park Avenue on April 20
- Watchung Avenue - April 20 through July 20 (approximately 3 months)
- There will be more closures after July 20, but that will be updated at a later date
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ACA (Affordable Care Act)
Mark this date on your calendar:
If you got stuck with a fine on your taxes for not having health insurance, you have another chance to get covered. And you could get help paying for it --
but only if you take action by April 30th.
Call Your Plainfield Navigator: 973-500-6031
What should I do if I think someone is using my Social Security number? mySocial Security Get your free personal online my Social Security account today!
If you think someone is using your number, review the earnings posted to your record on your
Social Security Statement
. To get your online
Statement
, go to
mySocial Security
.
We consider identity theft one of our major challenges and have joined government wide efforts to prevent Social Security number misuse.
We can resolve Social Security number reporting problems using our own records. We cannot control or resolve Social Security number problems with other organizations such as credit companies, banks or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
has primary responsibility for identity theft.
To contact the FTC:
- Go to www.ftc.gov
- Send mail to: FTC, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20580.
- Call 1-877-322-8228
- Fill out the Annual Credit Report Request Formand mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. Also, file a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place.
More Information
Know, Before You Owe: New Home Shopping Toolkit
Are You Looking to Buy a Home?
Buying a home is one of the most exciting, yet one of the most difficult financial decisions you will make. Understanding the costs of real estate settlement services, defining what affordable means to you, and finding the best mortgage are among the many aspects you'll need to consider. This new toolkit (PDF) from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), offers a step-by-step guide that includes checklists, conversation starters for discussions between buyers and lenders, and research tips to find more information.
Do you have questions about homeownership? If you're on Twitter, join the CFPB during a live Question and Answer Session on homeownership on April 28 at 3 PM ET. Use #GovFinChat to follow the conversation or ask questions.
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Plainfield Symphony: The Artistry of Haydn and Brahms
"Get Your Green On"  From the Union County website: "Get Your Green ON" at Trailside Nature and Science Center's annual Wild Earth Fest event on Sunday April 26, 2015 from 11am to 5pm. Featured this year, Jennifer Pena of "Flight of the Raptor," will present the natural history of birds of prey. Learn about their nesting habits, hunting adaptations and flight patterns. Visitors can join Cyril the Sorcerer as he tells the tale of monsters, magic and too much trash during his magical, interactive performance, "Recycling is Magic," in the auditorium offered twice during the afternoon. See a live wolf up close with Vinne Reo of Wolf Visions and enjoy a variety of activities including live music, refreshments, face painting, eco-art and Recycling Olympics. Admission is $4 per person, children 6 and under are free. For more information call 908-789-3670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside. Trailside Nature and Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside, NJ and is a service of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.
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.
Plainfield YMCA
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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.
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