Thursday, June 30, 2016
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Bella Vita Estates Is Ready for Tenants
Steve Cheung's Bella Vita Estates held a grand opening Wednesday. Here is the entrance at 33 Westervelt Avenue, with manager Beverly Jones at left.
Note: The information I was given is slightly at odds with what is on the front page of the Courier News today. Will inquire later.
There are four floors of apartments over ground floor commercial space. Each residential floor has four two-bedroom units and 16 one-bedroom units. Rent is $1,300 for two bedrooms and $1,100 for one bedroom. Tenants are responsible for their own heating and cooling costs in addition to utilities. Each apartment has its own heating and cooling unit, which the tenant controls.
This is a one-bedroom apartment kitchen. All new appliances include a stove, refrigerator and microwave. There will be a laundry room on the second floor.
Tenants must be 55 years or older, but can have family members age 19 or older living with them as long as the elder lives there. Once the elder tenant is no longer there, the younger ones must move out, Jones explained.
The building is just across Roosevelt Avenue from Supremo Supermarket and is accessible to several bus lines as well as the Raritan Valley Line trains.
Steve Cheung redeveloped the Front Street building between Roosevelt and Westervelt that formerly held the Plainfield Senior Center. The center relocated to the next block east, so will be very convenient for the Bella Vita Estates residents. Cheung received city permission to subdivide the parking lot behind the Front Street building and also obtained site plan approval several years ago.
Last year everything came together for the project and construction began.
Partly due to rezoning to permit greater density near train stations and partly because the financial doldrums of the past decade cleared up, apartments are springing up all over the city. See the roster of new or proposed apartments here.
--Bernice
BOE Special Meeting Thursday
Update: June 30 agenda is posted
A Special Meeting is still on the Board of Education schedule, but as of this morning there is no agenda posted. Most likely it has to do with several items that board members singled out for "no" votes on the Human Resources resolutions, including more than thirty proposed transfers for the 2016-2017 school year.
The meeting is 8 p.m. Thursday.in the PHS cafeteria.
A Special Meeting is still on the Board of Education schedule, but as of this morning there is no agenda posted. Most likely it has to do with several items that board members singled out for "no" votes on the Human Resources resolutions, including more than thirty proposed transfers for the 2016-2017 school year.
The meeting is 8 p.m. Thursday.in the PHS cafeteria.
Read Iziah Thompson's Commentary
While this blog is hyperlocal and only deals with Plainfield topics, young Iziah Thompson opines on national issues, as in this Fair Observer piece he wrote on the recent House Democrats' sit-in on gun control.
Iziah Thompson's author credit says this:
Iziah Thompson is a writer at Daily Clout and a graduate student at Rutgers University. His experience includes work in Washington, DC researching sex trafficking and nonprofit work with Darfuri Diaspora from South Sudan. He is an advocate for human rights. He has been published The Huffington Post, Daily Clout and other sites, where he writes editorials about politics, policy and legislation.
Iziah Thompson's author credit says this:
Iziah Thompson is a writer at Daily Clout and a graduate student at Rutgers University. His experience includes work in Washington, DC researching sex trafficking and nonprofit work with Darfuri Diaspora from South Sudan. He is an advocate for human rights. He has been published The Huffington Post, Daily Clout and other sites, where he writes editorials about politics, policy and legislation.
Location:United States City:Plainfield, NJ
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Blog Called On Account of Fatigue
There are lots of stories fermenting out there, but none ready to pour into a blog post. Maybe I will wake up later and see what transpires.
--Bernice
--Bernice
Trolls Begone
Troll alert!
Here's the comment:
It is interesting that all the folks who live in Sleepy Hollow and that area thought the race was wonderful, and then they went back home without one thought about all the merchants who lost money, or all the people that was late to work or just inconvenience, but the people in Sleepy Hollow and friends enjoyed it and that's all that mattered to mayor Mapp.
What's up in 2017 locally that would require an early start on trolling?
I thought after the primary we would catch a break from tactics such as assigning attitudes to a whole population, alleging classism and maybe racism with code words, demonizing folks - but no. A comment today makes me think we are seeing not just advance trashing for the Nov. 8 general election, but perhaps early stage-setting for 2017.
Here's the comment:
It is interesting that all the folks who live in Sleepy Hollow and that area thought the race was wonderful, and then they went back home without one thought about all the merchants who lost money, or all the people that was late to work or just inconvenience, but the people in Sleepy Hollow and friends enjoyed it and that's all that mattered to mayor Mapp.
What's up in 2017 locally that would require an early start on trolling?
The Fourth Ward and mayoral seat will be up for election, as well as all 68 seats on the Democratic City Committee, which will vote next June on a chairperson for 2017-2019. Jerry Green's District 22 Assembly seat and Union County Democratic Party chairmanship will also be up.
The comment includes a real issue, namely whether the logistics of the bicycle races were properly planned. It just goes off the rails by assuming a lot of other things. Sometimes when I see a barrage of such comments, I think there must be a rent-a-troll industry where individuals get paid to write inflammatory remarks.
I am using this one as an example of why from here on out signed comments will get preference and anonymous broad-brush bashing will not be published. A lot of commenters give views on city issues without using troll tactics. It can be done.
--Bernice
I am using this one as an example of why from here on out signed comments will get preference and anonymous broad-brush bashing will not be published. A lot of commenters give views on city issues without using troll tactics. It can be done.
--Bernice
Monday, June 27, 2016
Bike Race Images
I had other photos but could not publish due to technical difficulties. Will try later today.
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Can't Get Around Much Any More
2008 - The 1991 Ford Escort leaves the building
No doubt readers have heard me grumbling about meetings too far to go on foot. I was without a functioning car from 2006 to 2008, when I gave the vehicle away and went car-less in the Transit Village.
For many years, I preached and practiced walkability, which worked for going to City Hall, Municipal Court, Plainfield Public Library, Plainfield High School and downtown for meetings and events. After Dr. Steve Gallon III moved the meeting location and administration offices to the former Jefferson School, I found it difficult to cover board meetings. Wait time for taxis back and forth became a factor and the addition of student presentations drew meetings out to near midnight sometimes.
Recently I tried again, now that the meetings are closer to where I live. They are still rather tedious, but news does emerge. Unfortunately, they can conflict with Tuesday City Council meetings due to Monday federal holidays. I also perceive walking to Municipal Court as safer than walking from Park & Seventh to and from the PHS cafeteria in the dark. The west side of the library and Library Park itself have too many loiterers to suit this elderly pedestrian.
Both the school board and council have pledged to hold meetings in venues across the four wards this year. We shall see how that works out. My experience with town meetings in the four wards is that the same interested citizens show up at each one, along with a handful of ward residents. But obviously it is my problem.if I find it hard to get to various locations for meetings. Sometimes I just won't be able to go.
My blog and Dan's are the only ones with daily posts and now Dan has dropped Saturday posting. It is a challenge to cover meetings, but with news outlets no longer covering them, it has been up to bloggers to do so. As a retiree since 2003, living in close proximity to City Hall, I have an advantage in gathering information on municipal government and land use boards, my main interests. Around 2011, there were 30 bloggers of all ages and backgrounds writing about Plainfield, but the workload drove many away. I hope some new, younger people will decide to give it a try. David Rutherford does a great job and has introduced videos as well.
Meanwhile, I will try to alert Plainfielders to meetings so they can monitor what elected and appointed officials are up to, whether I can go or not. Stay tuned.
--Bernice
Saturday, June 25, 2016
BOE Holding Special Meeting Thursday
Special BOE Meeting
Thursday, June 30
8 p.m.
PHS Cafeteria
The meeting notice is in today's newspaper
and also on the
Run Errands Today, Streets Closed Sunday
If you are in the closed-off zone for tomorrow's bicycle race event, make sure you do all your errands today. The affected streets will be closed basically all day. This notice says 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Other advisory say closings start at 8 a.m. Either way, detours are on the menu for drivers Sunday.
I gave up my car in 2008 and consider myself an advocate for walkability, so I will not be impacted by the street closures as much as others, though even a short walk to the Twin City plaza may be affected.
I will also be able to look down the driveway and see the cyclists zooming by in the 1.1 mile loop around the center of the city. Good luck to all!
--Bernice
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Heed Sunday Road Closures
Please be aware that the road closures for Sunday's bike races will impact traffic in a much wider area than the immediate route, due in part to Plainfield's numerous one-way streets.
Race Route starting and ending at City Hall
Race Day Road Closures (from city web site)
1. West 2nd, West 4th, West 5th, and West 6th Street at Central Avenue
(eastbound traffic).
2. West 4th, West 5th, West 6th, and West 7th Streets at Arlington
Avenue (eastbound traffic).
3. West Front, West 2nd, West 4th, West 5th, West 6th, and West 7th
Streets at Park Avenue (eastbound traffic).
4. West 5th, West 6th, and West 7th Streets at Cleveland Avenue
(eastbound traffic).
5. West 4th and West 7th Street at Cleveland Avenue (westbound).
6. East Front, East 2nd, East 3rd, East 4th, East 5th, and East 7th
Streets at Watchung Avenue (eastbound traffic).
7. North Avenue at Watchung Avenue
8. Depot Park at Park Avenue
9. East Front, East 2nd, East 3rd, and East 5th Streets at Roosevelt
Avenue (westbound traffic).
10. East 2nd, East 3rd Street, and East 5th Streets at Richmond Street
(westbound traffic).
11. Madison Avenue and West Front Street
12. Crescent Avenue at 1st Place
13. Cleveland Avenue (All Traffic)
14. Depot Park (All Traffic)
Commentary on Tuesday's School Board Meeting
In light of the less-than-stellar performance by the school board and officials Tuesday, I would like to call attention to a blog post from April 29, after the election but before the organization meeting. The point of the post was that due to changing the election and other factors, the new board would be relatively lacking in experience. I held out hope that the new president and vice president would have qualities that would foster collegiality and adherence to state education law at all times while the board gains experience. It is still a hope, but the six members present Tuesday as well as officials got off track enough on Human Resource resolutions that the board secretary will have to listen to the tape to figure out the votes.
Every year, three board members are normally elected to three-year terms, creating an overlap of longevity. Of the six present Tuesday, two had only served since May 3, following the April 19 election, and one since Jan. 1 as a result of the Nov. 3, 2015 general election. Others had nine months, 15 months, 18 months of service. Some past boards have had the benefit of members with years or even decades of experience.
Too bad the voting process faltered when so many people were already in a state of nerves over their job status. The board and the administration must do better.
--Bernice
Every year, three board members are normally elected to three-year terms, creating an overlap of longevity. Of the six present Tuesday, two had only served since May 3, following the April 19 election, and one since Jan. 1 as a result of the Nov. 3, 2015 general election. Others had nine months, 15 months, 18 months of service. Some past boards have had the benefit of members with years or even decades of experience.
Too bad the voting process faltered when so many people were already in a state of nerves over their job status. The board and the administration must do better.
--Bernice
Commentary on the Vigil for Orlando
Comments are closed on this post
If there is a vigil for 49 gay people who died in a mass shooting, must the May shooting deaths of three men in Plainfield be part of it?
If there is a vigil for 49 gay people who died in a mass shooting, must the May shooting deaths of three men in Plainfield be part of it?
Some say yes.
-After a moment of silence for the Orlando victims at
Tuesday’s City Council meeting, Councilwoman Tracey Brown requested the same
for the three Plainfielders killed in May.
-At a vigil Friday for Orlando, Councilwoman Gloria Taylor
preached awareness of injustice to gay, straight, white, black, poor and other people.
- In a blog comment, Mr. X found fault with officials who
took part in Friday’s vigil for Orlando but did not attend a press conference where
activist Salaam Ismial spoke on deaths due to gun violence in Plainfield.
Over the years, there have been similar arguments made when
the atrocities of the Holocaust are mentioned without also speaking of the
atrocities of the Middle Passage.
Is it possible to express grief and sorrow over harm to one
population without including all others?
There is enough heartbreak in the world today that we could broaden the list of victims to those beheaded in the Middle East; residents of whole villages slaughtered in Africa; innocent airline passengers killed by suicidal pilots; children called "collateral damage" in drone strikes; women raped and killed around the world; and all others traumatized by "man's inhumanity to man," a phrase that overlooks the harm inflicted by aunties and mothers who force young girls to undergo sometimes fatal genital cutting.
So where to start and where to end?
At each funeral we mourn loss of a loved one singularly, yet with a universal emotion. If my neighbor should lose a loved one, her grief in no way diminishes mine in my time of loss. Plainfield's LGBT community lost many of its dearest members in days when the world didn't care. The vigil for Orlando was an occasion for all Plainfielders to support the LGBT community now mourning the loss of 49 members through a hateful act.
It was no disrespect to others. Similar vigils were held nationwide and beyond, specifically.in support of the LGBT community's loss. The Plainfield vigil was organized by a local group and some officials took part. For most everyone at Friday's vigil, the mass shooting of almost 100 LGBT people, 49 fatally, demanded a show of respect for those lives. It ended with Plainfielders of every identity reading out the names of those killed in Orlando.
It meant no disrespect to others.
--Bernice
So where to start and where to end?
At each funeral we mourn loss of a loved one singularly, yet with a universal emotion. If my neighbor should lose a loved one, her grief in no way diminishes mine in my time of loss. Plainfield's LGBT community lost many of its dearest members in days when the world didn't care. The vigil for Orlando was an occasion for all Plainfielders to support the LGBT community now mourning the loss of 49 members through a hateful act.
It was no disrespect to others. Similar vigils were held nationwide and beyond, specifically.in support of the LGBT community's loss. The Plainfield vigil was organized by a local group and some officials took part. For most everyone at Friday's vigil, the mass shooting of almost 100 LGBT people, 49 fatally, demanded a show of respect for those lives. It ended with Plainfielders of every identity reading out the names of those killed in Orlando.
It meant no disrespect to others.
--Bernice
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Transfers Perturb School Staff, Results in Limbo
Over an hour and a half Tuesday, school board members heard many an impassioned plea not to approve staff transfers, but voting on personnel matters became so complicated that the outcome won't be known until Board Secretary Craig Smith reviews the tape.
Speakers told of stress over short notice of the transfers. Supporters of a principal slated to be moved submitted petitions with 600 signatures. A master teacher who said she is the only Spanish speaker in Early Childhood Services deplored her transfer out of the program to become a teacher in an elementary school.
Anita Gaur, a library media specialist at Plainfield High School since 2005, pleaded with the board not to send her to another school. The 9 p.m. phone call she received Friday night informing her of the transfer caused her blood sugar to spike, she said. Gaur described how she transformed the library to a place where "everybody is engaged in learning" and called it "my home, my soul."
"Please let me stay with my students - this is my house," she said to applause from about 100 staff members and parents who attended the meeting.
The hour allotted to public comment was extended another half hour as speakers, some requiring a translator, poured out their concerns. Eric Jones, president of the Plainfield Education Association, told the board, "We are professionals, not chess pieces. Please help stop these last-minute reassignments."
Thirty-three staff members were listed for reassignment, including teachers, principals, vice principals and others. There were many other resolutions in the Human Resources segment, as employment decisions for school districts must be made by June 30. But when voting began on the 44-page Human Resources portion of the 166-page agenda, board members made so many exceptions that Smith and attorney Lisa Fittipaldi could not keep track and decided to review the tape.
For example, John Campbell voted "yes," except said "no" to six items and Carmencita Pile excluded the transfers and several other items from her "yes" vote. Board President Emily Morgan said the results will be posted on the district web site, which leaves those affected in limbo for a few more days.
Morgan and board members Carmencita Pile, Carletta Jeffers, John Campbell, Richard Wyatt and Lynn Anderson adjourned the public portion after voting on the rest of the agenda and went back into closed session at 11:10 p.m. David Rutherford, Dorien Hurtt and Terrance Bellamy were absent. The board was expected to return to public session later, but this writer went home.
--Bernice
Speakers told of stress over short notice of the transfers. Supporters of a principal slated to be moved submitted petitions with 600 signatures. A master teacher who said she is the only Spanish speaker in Early Childhood Services deplored her transfer out of the program to become a teacher in an elementary school.
Anita Gaur, a library media specialist at Plainfield High School since 2005, pleaded with the board not to send her to another school. The 9 p.m. phone call she received Friday night informing her of the transfer caused her blood sugar to spike, she said. Gaur described how she transformed the library to a place where "everybody is engaged in learning" and called it "my home, my soul."
"Please let me stay with my students - this is my house," she said to applause from about 100 staff members and parents who attended the meeting.
The hour allotted to public comment was extended another half hour as speakers, some requiring a translator, poured out their concerns. Eric Jones, president of the Plainfield Education Association, told the board, "We are professionals, not chess pieces. Please help stop these last-minute reassignments."
Thirty-three staff members were listed for reassignment, including teachers, principals, vice principals and others. There were many other resolutions in the Human Resources segment, as employment decisions for school districts must be made by June 30. But when voting began on the 44-page Human Resources portion of the 166-page agenda, board members made so many exceptions that Smith and attorney Lisa Fittipaldi could not keep track and decided to review the tape.
For example, John Campbell voted "yes," except said "no" to six items and Carmencita Pile excluded the transfers and several other items from her "yes" vote. Board President Emily Morgan said the results will be posted on the district web site, which leaves those affected in limbo for a few more days.
Morgan and board members Carmencita Pile, Carletta Jeffers, John Campbell, Richard Wyatt and Lynn Anderson adjourned the public portion after voting on the rest of the agenda and went back into closed session at 11:10 p.m. David Rutherford, Dorien Hurtt and Terrance Bellamy were absent. The board was expected to return to public session later, but this writer went home.
--Bernice
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Sides Drawn on State of the City?
A discussion of "initiatives in support of at-risk youth" was postponed Monday until Mayor Adrian O. Mapp could be present, but the announcement set off a lively discussion anyway.
Councilwoman Bridget Rivers said the City Council must be in collaboration with the administration or it would be a waste of time. Councilwoman Gloria Taylor followed up by saying there were things the council wants to investigate, mentioning the Police Division and recent shootings. She then announced a "Youth Summit" at Ruth Fellowship Ministries, where Councilwoman Tracey Brown is pastor. (There is no notice of the Youth Summit on the church website as of Tuesday afternoon.)
Taylor said Police Director Carl Riley and police had been asked to take part in the event, Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m., but Riley said he had not received anything.
Taylor called violence "a health issue" and said "Plainfield lives do matter."
At Friday's vigil for the 49 Orlando shooting victims, she had mentioned three shootings here as well. In April, she had urged an investigation into police policies and procedures.
"I just want to be clear," Riley said Monday, citing a 2014 anti-crime initiative. "Violent crime decreased dramatically."
He said it was down 27 percent and shootings were down 40 percent. To keep it going, he said, "We need help from the community."
Riley said the city hired 16 new police officers in the past 16 months and noted the current "Summer Fun with Plainfield's First Responders" led by Police Officer Bernel Harrison with participation by police, fire and EMS personnel. A youth mentoring program that had 25 members last year has 50 now and another program at Hubbard Middle School has increased from two to three weeks, he said.
In addition, cookouts with police and first responders are planned in all four wards.
"On our end, we're trying to reach out, but we need community involvement," Riley said, to applause from the audience in Municipal Court..
Councilman Barry Goode called the effort "as proactive as you can get," but Councilwoman Diane Toliver said, "We have to remember where we came from - we all came from a village."
She asked "why have children forgotten to love themselves."
"We have to reassure them that we have not let them down," Toliver said, suggesting a hotline where young people can talk.
"We can't stop here," she said.
Riley said the city has both a hotline and a tip line, but Toliver insisted, "We have to remember that someone was there for us," adding that in a killing "two families are destroyed."
Riley objected to Toliver saying there was a "rash" of shootings, calling them "isolated incidents." But Toliver defended herself, saying she looks forward to "getting to the bottom of it" and not to point a finger at "who shot who."
Councilwoman Rebecca Williams thanked Riley and said she looks forward to reporting on Public Safety, to which she is the council liaison.
Council President Cory Storch said there will be an announcement about another city-sponsored Youth Summit.
(As I am writing, a 3:38 p.m. Facebook notice is posted about a "Unity Summit" on Thursday addressing "gun violence, police accountability and community unity.")
What to make of the dichotomy of viewpoints on the council? I leave it to readers to surmise.
Councilwoman Bridget Rivers said the City Council must be in collaboration with the administration or it would be a waste of time. Councilwoman Gloria Taylor followed up by saying there were things the council wants to investigate, mentioning the Police Division and recent shootings. She then announced a "Youth Summit" at Ruth Fellowship Ministries, where Councilwoman Tracey Brown is pastor. (There is no notice of the Youth Summit on the church website as of Tuesday afternoon.)
Taylor said Police Director Carl Riley and police had been asked to take part in the event, Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m., but Riley said he had not received anything.
Taylor called violence "a health issue" and said "Plainfield lives do matter."
At Friday's vigil for the 49 Orlando shooting victims, she had mentioned three shootings here as well. In April, she had urged an investigation into police policies and procedures.
"I just want to be clear," Riley said Monday, citing a 2014 anti-crime initiative. "Violent crime decreased dramatically."
He said it was down 27 percent and shootings were down 40 percent. To keep it going, he said, "We need help from the community."
Riley said the city hired 16 new police officers in the past 16 months and noted the current "Summer Fun with Plainfield's First Responders" led by Police Officer Bernel Harrison with participation by police, fire and EMS personnel. A youth mentoring program that had 25 members last year has 50 now and another program at Hubbard Middle School has increased from two to three weeks, he said.
In addition, cookouts with police and first responders are planned in all four wards.
"On our end, we're trying to reach out, but we need community involvement," Riley said, to applause from the audience in Municipal Court..
Councilman Barry Goode called the effort "as proactive as you can get," but Councilwoman Diane Toliver said, "We have to remember where we came from - we all came from a village."
She asked "why have children forgotten to love themselves."
"We have to reassure them that we have not let them down," Toliver said, suggesting a hotline where young people can talk.
"We can't stop here," she said.
Riley said the city has both a hotline and a tip line, but Toliver insisted, "We have to remember that someone was there for us," adding that in a killing "two families are destroyed."
Riley objected to Toliver saying there was a "rash" of shootings, calling them "isolated incidents." But Toliver defended herself, saying she looks forward to "getting to the bottom of it" and not to point a finger at "who shot who."
Councilwoman Rebecca Williams thanked Riley and said she looks forward to reporting on Public Safety, to which she is the council liaison.
Council President Cory Storch said there will be an announcement about another city-sponsored Youth Summit.
(As I am writing, a 3:38 p.m. Facebook notice is posted about a "Unity Summit" on Thursday addressing "gun violence, police accountability and community unity.")
What to make of the dichotomy of viewpoints on the council? I leave it to readers to surmise.
Bicycle Races Sunday
This is a press release from Chief of Staff John Stewart
New Jersey State Bicycle Championships Comes to Plainfield!
Plainfield, NJ – June 20, 2016 – The State Bicycle Championships Committee has chosen
Plainfield to host it's annual championship competition.
On Sunday, June 26, 2016, the best cyclists in the State of New Jersey and surrounding
regions will meet in the City of Plainfield to compete for the 2016 New Jersey State Bicycle
Championship titles. The race will begin at 9AM in front of Plainfield City Hall on
Watchung Avenue and will end at 4PM.
The main race will feature notable riders such as Juan Pablo Jimenez-State Champion (from
Plainfield), Nilson Ruiz-State Champion, Joe Saling- Multi National Champion, Matt
Diefenbach- World Match Sprint Champion, Gil Hatton-World Track Keirin Champion,
Colleen Gullick-Professional Woman Cyclist and Greg Cordasco - Multi State and Regional
Champion, National Silver Medalist
Chief of Staff John Stewart said, "We are excited to host the NJ State Bicycle
Championships. This is a great opportunity for the City Of Plainfield and will provide
exposure to our great city and our local businesses."
In addition to the main race there will be races open to Plainfield public school students, and
the first 60 to sign up will receive free bikes. The one day event will bring 600 visitors and
race enthusiasts to the City of Plainfield
Regarding the upcoming event, Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp had this to say; "This event
not only provides opportunity for our local businesses to gain extra revenue, but it serves to
expose our youth to the positive benefits of engaging in a sport like cycling. As important
however, is the opportunity for Plainfield to shine, it will serve to highlight what a great
place Plainfield is for showcasing events such as these"
All residents are encouraged to come out to support the cyclists and witness this fun
sporting event, whose categories run the gamut from professional to amateur. Businesses are
being encouraged to remain open and take advantage of the opportunities created by this
event.
For More Information visit the official Facebook Page
(https://www.facebook.com/The-New- Jersey-State- Bicycle-Championships-
197139837338588/info/?tab=page_info&edited=website)
Cycling Athletes Click Here to Register for the Race
( https://www.bikereg.com/the-new- jersey-state- bicycle-championships- criterium)
Visit the City of Plainfield website or Facebook page for more information
on the course, list of EMS locations, parking lots, Porto-pots, police etc.
Website: http://www.plainfieldnj.gov
Facebook: @cityofplainfieldnj
New Jersey State Bicycle Championships Comes to Plainfield!
Plainfield, NJ – June 20, 2016 – The State Bicycle Championships Committee has chosen
Plainfield to host it's annual championship competition.
On Sunday, June 26, 2016, the best cyclists in the State of New Jersey and surrounding
regions will meet in the City of Plainfield to compete for the 2016 New Jersey State Bicycle
Championship titles. The race will begin at 9AM in front of Plainfield City Hall on
Watchung Avenue and will end at 4PM.
The main race will feature notable riders such as Juan Pablo Jimenez-State Champion (from
Plainfield), Nilson Ruiz-State Champion, Joe Saling- Multi National Champion, Matt
Diefenbach- World Match Sprint Champion, Gil Hatton-World Track Keirin Champion,
Colleen Gullick-Professional Woman Cyclist and Greg Cordasco - Multi State and Regional
Champion, National Silver Medalist
Chief of Staff John Stewart said, "We are excited to host the NJ State Bicycle
Championships. This is a great opportunity for the City Of Plainfield and will provide
exposure to our great city and our local businesses."
In addition to the main race there will be races open to Plainfield public school students, and
the first 60 to sign up will receive free bikes. The one day event will bring 600 visitors and
race enthusiasts to the City of Plainfield
Regarding the upcoming event, Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp had this to say; "This event
not only provides opportunity for our local businesses to gain extra revenue, but it serves to
expose our youth to the positive benefits of engaging in a sport like cycling. As important
however, is the opportunity for Plainfield to shine, it will serve to highlight what a great
place Plainfield is for showcasing events such as these"
All residents are encouraged to come out to support the cyclists and witness this fun
sporting event, whose categories run the gamut from professional to amateur. Businesses are
being encouraged to remain open and take advantage of the opportunities created by this
event.
For More Information visit the official Facebook Page
(https://www.facebook.com/The-New- Jersey-State- Bicycle-Championships-
197139837338588/info/?tab=page_info&edited=website)
Cycling Athletes Click Here to Register for the Race
( https://www.bikereg.com/the-new- jersey-state- bicycle-championships- criterium)
Visit the City of Plainfield website or Facebook page for more information
on the course, list of EMS locations, parking lots, Porto-pots, police etc.
Website: http://www.plainfieldnj.gov
Facebook: @cityofplainfieldnj
Bicycle Races Sunday
This is a press release from Chief of Staff John Stewart
New Jersey State Bicycle Championships Comes to Plainfield!
Plainfield, NJ – June 20, 2016 – The State Bicycle Championships Committee has chosen
Plainfield to host it's annual championship competition.
On Sunday, June 26, 2016, the best cyclists in the State of New Jersey and surrounding
regions will meet in the City of Plainfield to compete for the 2016 New Jersey State Bicycle
Championship titles. The race will begin at 9AM in front of Plainfield City Hall on
Watchung Avenue and will end at 4PM.
The main race will feature notable riders such as Juan Pablo Jimenez-State Champion (from
Plainfield), Nilson Ruiz-State Champion, Joe Saling- Multi National Champion, Matt
Diefenbach- World Match Sprint Champion, Gil Hatton-World Track Keirin Champion,
Colleen Gullick-Professional Woman Cyclist and Greg Cordasco - Multi State and Regional
Champion, National Silver Medalist
Chief of Staff John Stewart said, "We are excited to host the NJ State Bicycle
Championships. This is a great opportunity for the City Of Plainfield and will provide
exposure to our great city and our local businesses."
In addition to the main race there will be races open to Plainfield public school students, and
the first 60 to sign up will receive free bikes. The one day event will bring 600 visitors and
race enthusiasts to the City of Plainfield
Regarding the upcoming event, Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp had this to say; "This event
not only provides opportunity for our local businesses to gain extra revenue, but it serves to
expose our youth to the positive benefits of engaging in a sport like cycling. As important
however, is the opportunity for Plainfield to shine, it will serve to highlight what a great
place Plainfield is for showcasing events such as these"
All residents are encouraged to come out to support the cyclists and witness this fun
sporting event, whose categories run the gamut from professional to amateur. Businesses are
being encouraged to remain open and take advantage of the opportunities created by this
event.
For More Information visit the official Facebook Page
(https://www.facebook.com/The-New- Jersey-State- Bicycle-Championships-
197139837338588/info/?tab=page_info&edited=website)
Cycling Athletes Click Here to Register for the Race
( https://www.bikereg.com/the-new- jersey-state- bicycle-championships- criterium)
Visit the City of Plainfield website or Facebook page for more information
on the course, list of EMS locations, parking lots, Porto-pots, police etc.
Website: http://www.plainfieldnj.gov
Facebook: @cityofplainfieldnj
New Jersey State Bicycle Championships Comes to Plainfield!
Plainfield, NJ – June 20, 2016 – The State Bicycle Championships Committee has chosen
Plainfield to host it's annual championship competition.
On Sunday, June 26, 2016, the best cyclists in the State of New Jersey and surrounding
regions will meet in the City of Plainfield to compete for the 2016 New Jersey State Bicycle
Championship titles. The race will begin at 9AM in front of Plainfield City Hall on
Watchung Avenue and will end at 4PM.
The main race will feature notable riders such as Juan Pablo Jimenez-State Champion (from
Plainfield), Nilson Ruiz-State Champion, Joe Saling- Multi National Champion, Matt
Diefenbach- World Match Sprint Champion, Gil Hatton-World Track Keirin Champion,
Colleen Gullick-Professional Woman Cyclist and Greg Cordasco - Multi State and Regional
Champion, National Silver Medalist
Chief of Staff John Stewart said, "We are excited to host the NJ State Bicycle
Championships. This is a great opportunity for the City Of Plainfield and will provide
exposure to our great city and our local businesses."
In addition to the main race there will be races open to Plainfield public school students, and
the first 60 to sign up will receive free bikes. The one day event will bring 600 visitors and
race enthusiasts to the City of Plainfield
Regarding the upcoming event, Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp had this to say; "This event
not only provides opportunity for our local businesses to gain extra revenue, but it serves to
expose our youth to the positive benefits of engaging in a sport like cycling. As important
however, is the opportunity for Plainfield to shine, it will serve to highlight what a great
place Plainfield is for showcasing events such as these"
All residents are encouraged to come out to support the cyclists and witness this fun
sporting event, whose categories run the gamut from professional to amateur. Businesses are
being encouraged to remain open and take advantage of the opportunities created by this
event.
For More Information visit the official Facebook Page
(https://www.facebook.com/The-New- Jersey-State- Bicycle-Championships-
197139837338588/info/?tab=page_info&edited=website)
Cycling Athletes Click Here to Register for the Race
( https://www.bikereg.com/the-new- jersey-state- bicycle-championships- criterium)
Visit the City of Plainfield website or Facebook page for more information
on the course, list of EMS locations, parking lots, Porto-pots, police etc.
Website: http://www.plainfieldnj.gov
Facebook: @cityofplainfieldnj
PAAAS Success Topped Council Agenda
Monday's City Council meeting was full of good stories and information, more than can be covered in one blog post.
Here are some items:
- The U.S. News & World Report recognition of Plainfield Academy for the Arts and Advanced Studies as one of the best high schools in the nation brought together past and present officials including former Schools Superintendent Steve Gallon III and PAAAS Principal Angela Bento; current Superintendent Anna Belin-Pyles; former school board members Martin Cox, Brenda Gilbert, Christian Estevez, Patricia Barksdale; current President Emily Morgan and members Lynn Anderson, John Campbell and Carmencita Pile; past president Wilma Campbell and numerous students to hear a City Council resolution read by Councilwoman Bridget Rivers, also a former school board member. The Class of 2016 had a 100 percent graduation rate and all the graduates are going to college.
Many speakers commented on the school's history and success. The meeting was recorded for broadcast on local cable channels, so all the remarks can be heard when the meeting is on Comcast Channel 96 or Verizon Channel 34.
- Representatives of New Jersey American Water spoke on water quality and said all water delivered to city homes is in full compliance with state and federal standards. The issue of lead in water arises from lead pipes and lead-soldered connections in homes, a spokesman said. The company advises running water for five minutes after it has been standing in pipes overnight to flush out lead. The company website has water quality questions and answers.
- City youth are having "Summer Fun with Plainfield's First Responders" at the Plainfield Public Library. The noon to 1:30 p.m. segments span two weeks that started Monday and include how to deal with bullying, internet bullying, first aid, fire safety, gang awareness and a mock crime scene where participants can learn about investigations. Officer Bernel Harrison and his fellow police, fire and EMS first responders are presenting the program.
In council business, the governing body approved hiring Richard J. Gartz as chief financial officer from July 6, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2017. Liquor licenses for two social clubs, eleven liquor stores and twelve bars, restaurants and night clubs were approved for 2016-17. The council authorized purchase of eight 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles at a cost of $221,184 and renewed the city's subscription to the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system for $120,000.
More to follow tomorrow.
--Bernice
Here are some items:
- The U.S. News & World Report recognition of Plainfield Academy for the Arts and Advanced Studies as one of the best high schools in the nation brought together past and present officials including former Schools Superintendent Steve Gallon III and PAAAS Principal Angela Bento; current Superintendent Anna Belin-Pyles; former school board members Martin Cox, Brenda Gilbert, Christian Estevez, Patricia Barksdale; current President Emily Morgan and members Lynn Anderson, John Campbell and Carmencita Pile; past president Wilma Campbell and numerous students to hear a City Council resolution read by Councilwoman Bridget Rivers, also a former school board member. The Class of 2016 had a 100 percent graduation rate and all the graduates are going to college.
Many speakers commented on the school's history and success. The meeting was recorded for broadcast on local cable channels, so all the remarks can be heard when the meeting is on Comcast Channel 96 or Verizon Channel 34.
- Representatives of New Jersey American Water spoke on water quality and said all water delivered to city homes is in full compliance with state and federal standards. The issue of lead in water arises from lead pipes and lead-soldered connections in homes, a spokesman said. The company advises running water for five minutes after it has been standing in pipes overnight to flush out lead. The company website has water quality questions and answers.
- City youth are having "Summer Fun with Plainfield's First Responders" at the Plainfield Public Library. The noon to 1:30 p.m. segments span two weeks that started Monday and include how to deal with bullying, internet bullying, first aid, fire safety, gang awareness and a mock crime scene where participants can learn about investigations. Officer Bernel Harrison and his fellow police, fire and EMS first responders are presenting the program.
In council business, the governing body approved hiring Richard J. Gartz as chief financial officer from July 6, 2016 through Dec. 31, 2017. Liquor licenses for two social clubs, eleven liquor stores and twelve bars, restaurants and night clubs were approved for 2016-17. The council authorized purchase of eight 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles at a cost of $221,184 and renewed the city's subscription to the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system for $120,000.
More to follow tomorrow.
--Bernice
Monday, June 20, 2016
Happy Summer Solstice
St. Johnswort - Michael J. Lemmer
Happy Summer Solstice
to all who observe
The Wheel of the Year
Sunday, June 19, 2016
HOPES Group Ready to Renovate Armory
A child care facility was the successful bidder for the Plainfield Armory in 2012, but renovation plans were in abeyance until now.
HOPES Community Action Partnership Inc. said in a press release acquisition has been completed.
Here is an excerpt from the press release:
In 2013, HOPES received Zoning Board approvals. An initial meeting drew a large crowd with concerns about traffic and other impacts on the mostly residential neighborhood. On March 19, 2013, the organization won approvals from the Zoning Board, but a timeline calling for September 2014 occupancy did not happen.
HOPES Community Action Partnership Inc. said in a press release acquisition has been completed.
Here is an excerpt from the press release:
After renovations, the facility will serve as many as 300 children ages birth through five, in 20 state-of-the-art classrooms. The acquisition commences the organization’s efforts to transform the historic building into a contemporary educational center that will become one of the largest early childhood learning centers in the region. HOPES will house early childhood education programs based in Plainfield at the Armory site, including Early Head Start, Head Start, and State-Funded Preschool programs. Since 2009, HOPES has administered early childhood education programs in Plainfield, serving more than 270 infants, toddlers, preschoolers and pregnant women each year.
Meanwhile, part of the same large block bounded by Terrill Road, South Avenue, Leland Avenue and East Seventh Street has become the site for a $50 million, 212-unit residential complex with many amenities. Plaintalker deemed approval of a "payment in lieu of taxes" plan for the development the top story of 2015.
It has not been uncommon for time to elapse between initial approvals and actual development to take place here. An 80-unit apartment project for residents over age 55 received initial approvals in 2008, but did not begin construction until last year. A grand opening will take place on June 29..
--Bernice
New CFO Expected
One of the most significant items on Monday's City Council agenda is a resolution to hire a new chief financial officer.
Municipalities are required to have CFOs, but they have become scarce. In the previous administration, years passed with no CFO in place. The mayor and council members faced daily fines of $25 each at one point for lack of a CFO. One was hired, but left after a year and the city then depended on a CFO from a neighboring municipality who could spare a few hours per week to see to Plainfield's fiscal integrity.
See the requirements and responsibilities of a chief financial officer here.
The new CFO is Richard J. Gartz, who served Freehold in that role and was also the acting chief municipal finance officer for Asbury Park. The resolution to hire him here indicates a term starting July 1 and continuing through the balance of Mayor Adrian O. Mapp's term, ending Dec. 31, 2017. It does not state his compensation, but includes a residency waiver
Mapp began his four-year term on Jan. 1, 2014 with the promise of a CFO serving concurrently. Ulrich "Al" Steinberg received an enthusiastic welcome. The city had not had a long-term CFO since Peter Sepelya resigned at the end of 2007. However, Steinberg left this year and the city has relied once again on a part-time CFO while searching for a new one.
The City Council meeting is 8 p.m. Monday, June 20 in Municipal Court, 325 Watchung Ave.
--Bernice
Municipalities are required to have CFOs, but they have become scarce. In the previous administration, years passed with no CFO in place. The mayor and council members faced daily fines of $25 each at one point for lack of a CFO. One was hired, but left after a year and the city then depended on a CFO from a neighboring municipality who could spare a few hours per week to see to Plainfield's fiscal integrity.
See the requirements and responsibilities of a chief financial officer here.
The new CFO is Richard J. Gartz, who served Freehold in that role and was also the acting chief municipal finance officer for Asbury Park. The resolution to hire him here indicates a term starting July 1 and continuing through the balance of Mayor Adrian O. Mapp's term, ending Dec. 31, 2017. It does not state his compensation, but includes a residency waiver
Mapp began his four-year term on Jan. 1, 2014 with the promise of a CFO serving concurrently. Ulrich "Al" Steinberg received an enthusiastic welcome. The city had not had a long-term CFO since Peter Sepelya resigned at the end of 2007. However, Steinberg left this year and the city has relied once again on a part-time CFO while searching for a new one.
The City Council meeting is 8 p.m. Monday, June 20 in Municipal Court, 325 Watchung Ave.
--Bernice
Happy Father's Day
Happy Father's Day
to all Dads
and to those who
give fatherly love
and guidance
to children
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Vigil for Orlando
All the speeches were very eloquent and moving. I did not take notes, just photos.
Chief of Staff John Stewart was the master of ceremonies.
Mayor Adrian O. Mapp
Councilwoman Gloria Taylor
Father Gideon of Grace Episcopal Church
Rev. Damaris Ortega of United Church of Christ Congregational
A very diverse crowd applauded the speakers.
A PAAAS student sang "Somewhere (There's a Place for Us)"
Attendees and speakers read aloud the names of the 49 people who were killed in Orlando.
--Bernice
Friday, June 17, 2016
Bugs and Blooms
Click any image to enlarge
I despaired of seeing any Praying Mantises in the garden this year after the depredations of a "landscaper" on April 20 and another round of mowers and blowers this month, but look who showed up! These little mantises are about an inch long and are inhabiting a Black-Eyed Susan plant that was not in the line of fire of the overzealous landscapers. I was even more thrilled to see a green one on the Miscanthus, even bigger than these guys. Maybe I will have backyard entertainment after all this summer from their antics!
--Bernice
Planning Board Approves Two "In Need" Studies
The studies will go to the City Council, which may then ask the Planning Division to create redevelopment plans, but officials stressed there will be no use of eminent domain to acquire properties. Another concern was the finding of brownfields status on several properties, but Planning Division Director William Nierstedt said the state Department of Environmental Protection determines brownfield status, not the city.
The first study, made by Scott Bauman of the Planning Division, found the E. Paul building on South Avenue to be in need of redevelopment based on findings that it was obsolete and a detriment to the neighborhood, among other issues. It met five of the eight state redevelopment criteria, although even meeting one was sufficient for the "in need' designation.
The Royal Apex building, also known as the Rushmore Building, was removed from the study Thursday as it is being redeveloped to contain 850 self-storage units.
No one came forward to comment on the E. Paul building designation.
Michele S. Delisfort of the Nishuane Group presented the second study, on a 25.6-acre tract bordered by North Avenue, Berckman Street, Leland Avenue and the Raritan Valley Line railroad. Of 15 parcels, seven have industrial uses and three are commercial. A post office and lot owned by NJ Transit are exempt and two lots are vacant. Fourteen are designated as brownfields by the NJ DEP.
All the properties met one of the Local Redevelopment Housing Law "in need" criteria, being in an Urban Enterprise Zone.Twelve met another one having to do with brownfields, obsolescence, substandard structures and other detriments. Eight had environmental issues in addition to sites and buildings in need of improvement.
Business owners commented and asked questions on this study. John Bruno of Wall Street Auto Exchange asked what was next and the answer was the study goes to the City Council, which may then ask Planning for a redevelopment plan. Another person cited the recent proliferation of apartments along the rail line and "whether that's where Plainfield wants to go."
Nierstedt explained new zoning designations that allow for increased density around railroad stations and said, "Do they point toward mixed use as others have done? Absolutely!"
But he said it does not "in any way, shape or form" affect one's ability to do business. He noted many redevelopment areas have not changed since approvals, due to not having the wherewithal to build or for other reasons.
A man who said his business was his sole means of support was reassured that eminent domain will not be used if a redevelopment plan is approved. Peter Fleck questioned how the designations were done, saying his business has "the prettiest building in Plainfield." Delisfort said the firm did exterior examinations, looking at the structure and the lot. In answer to his question on the brownfields designation, Planning Board Chairman Ron Scott Bey said there is no change until a sale and then the property must be remediated.
"The bottom line is that this study does not affect DEP status," Nierstedt said, again adding there will be no eminent domain.
"You decide at a future time when to sell your property," he said.
After the meeting was adjourned, Nierstedt, Scott Bey and others lingered to chat with the business owners.
--Bernice
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