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Mayor's Message:
Processing Grief
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Dear Jazz,
On Tuesday, August 1st, 2023, the Garden State lost a history-making public servant, a beloved family and community member, and an inspiration to us all - especially our young women of color seeking to make a difference. The death of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver has made waves throughout our state and nation. Although we remember and honor her rich political legacy, we cannot deny the personal pain and grief felt by this loss. And for some of us, a sad reminder of losing someone near and dear to our hearts. While everyone experiences grief uniquely, we should be aware of some things when we face loss.
Anyone who has experienced it knows that the impacts of grief are not bound to just a feeling of sadness. Grief can severely impact your physical health, and its effects on mental health cannot be overlooked or understated. Grief shares many of the same symptoms of anxiety and depression, and for people with mood or anxiety disorders, it can worsen existing symptoms of worry or hopelessness. Researchers have found clear connections between grief and physical body changes, such as heart health, sleep patterns, emotional moods, digestion, and more.
The timeline for processing grief varies from person to person. Whether by speaking with a counselor or therapist, participating in a support group, reaching out to community organizations like churches, or talking to a loved one - finding emotional support can be one of the ways to help cope with loss. Small things that remind us of the bigger picture can bring comfort into our lives during times of darkness. Simple things such as spending time with friends and family can help to heal a broken heart. Taking care of yourself is also essential as you face an up-and-down emotional response. This can involve going to bed at the same time every day, following a bedtime routine that brings you calm, eating a well-balanced diet, regular physical activities, and engaging in hobbies that help you relieve stress. It’s also recommended that you set time aside to reflect and think about the person you’ve lost. Lastly, give yourself grace while grieving and understand that it is a lifelong process.
Wisdom can be found anywhere, and, in this case, it may be best seen in Marvel’s WandaVision when Vision says to Wanda, “What is grief if not love persevering?” The love we feel for someone and the space we hold for them in our hearts and memories never disappears or gets smaller. How lucky are we to be able to feel a love that strong? Love can remind us of someone we knew long ago by seeing a familiar hairstyle, getting a whiff of a scent, hearing the lyrics of a song, or being in a special place. Love can imprint in you forever the sound of someone else’s laugh, sense of humor, smile, and warmth. Love that, yes, can make the loss feel unbearable, but it can also make us grateful to have had such joy in our lives at one point. When we discuss grief, let’s think about love and prioritize healing. As Stephen Colbert said, “It is a gift to exist, and with existence comes suffering. There’s no escaping that, but if you are grateful for your life, you must be grateful for all of it.”
Let’s enjoy every moment we get to spend with the people we love.; take no time for granted and be grateful we get to experience the love and light others bring into our lives.
My thoughts and prayers are with the colleagues, friends, and family of Sheila Oliver. We thank her for her service to our Garden State and are thankful for the time we got to call her an advocate.
Creating One Plainfield. One Future.
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Mayor Adrian O. Mapp
City of Plainfield
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Mensaje Del Alcalde:
Procesamiento Del Duelo
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Querido(a) Jazz,
El Martes 1 de Agosto de 2023, Nueva Jersey perdió a una servidora pública que hizo historia, una querida miembra de la comunidad, y una inspiración para todos nosotros, especialmente para nuestras jóvenes que buscan hacer una diferencia. La muerte de la Vicegobernadora Sheila Oliver ha causado conmoción en todo nuestro estado y nación. Aunque recordamos y honramos su rico legado político, no podemos negar el dolor y la pena personal que sentimos por esta pérdida. Y para algunos de nosotros, un triste recordatorio de perder a alguien cercano y querido en nuestros corazones. Si bien todos experimentamos el duelo de manera única, debemos ser conscientes de algunas cosas cuando enfrentamos una pérdida.
Cualquiera que lo haya experimentado sabe que los impactos del duelo no están ligados solo a un sentimiento de tristeza. El duelo puede afectar gravemente su salud física y sus efectos en la salud mental no pueden pasarse por alto ni subestimarse. El duelo comparte muchos de los mismos síntomas de ansiedad y depresión, y para las personas con trastornos del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad, puede empeorar los síntomas existentes de preocupación o desesperanza. Los investigadores han encontrado conexiones claras entre el duelo y los cambios físicos del cuerpo, como la salud del corazón, los patrones de sueño, los estados de ánimo emocionales, la digestión y más.
La línea de tiempo para procesar el duelo varía de persona a persona. Ya sea hablando con un consejero o terapeuta, participando en un grupo de apoyo, comunicándose con organizaciones comunitarias como iglesias o hablando con un ser querido, encontrar apoyo emocional puede ser una de las formas de ayudar a sobrellevar la pérdida. Las pequeñas cosas que nos recuerdan el panorama general pueden traer consuelo a nuestras vidas en tiempos de oscuridad. Las cosas simples, como pasar tiempo con amigos y familiares, pueden ayudar a sanar un corazón roto. Cuidarse a sí mismo también es esencial cuando se enfrenta a una respuesta emocional de altibajos. Esto puede implicar acostarse a la misma hora todos los días, seguir una rutina a la hora de acostarse que lo tranquilice, comer una dieta bien balanceada, realizar actividades físicas regulares y participar en pasatiempos que lo ayuden a aliviar el estrés. También es recomendable que dediques un tiempo para reflexionar y pensar en la persona que has perdido. Por último, concédase gracia durante el duelo y comprenda que es un proceso de por vida.
La sabiduría se puede encontrar en cualquier lugar y, en este caso, puede verse mejor en WandaVision de Marvel cuando Vision le dice a Wanda: "¿Qué es el dolor sino la perseverancia del amor?" El amor que sentimos por alguien y el espacio que le reservamos en nuestros corazones y recuerdos nunca desaparece o se hace más pequeño. ¿Qué suerte tenemos de poder sentir un amor tan fuerte? El amor puede recordarnos a alguien que conocimos hace mucho tiempo al ver un peinado familiar, oler un aroma, escuchar la letra de una canción o estar en un lugar especial. El amor puede grabar en ti para siempre el sonido de la risa, el sentido del humor, la sonrisa y la calidez de otra persona. Amor que, sí, puede hacer que la pérdida se sienta insoportable, pero también puede hacernos sentir agradecidos por haber tenido tanta alegría en nuestras vidas en algún momento. Cuando discutamos el duelo, pensemos en el amor y prioricemos la curación. Como dijo Stephen Colbert: “Existir es un regalo, y con la existencia viene el sufrimiento. No hay escapatoria a eso, pero si estás agradecido por tu vida, debes estar agradecido por todo”.
Disfrutemos cada momento que podamos pasar con las personas que amamos.; no des por sentado el tiempo y agradece que podamos experimentar el amor y la luz que otros traen a nuestras vidas.
Mis pensamientos y oraciones están con los colegas, amigos y familiares de Sheila Oliver. Le agradecemos su servicio a nuestro Garden State y estamos agradecidos por el tiempo que tuvimos para llamarla defensora.
#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield
Creando Un Plainfield. Un Futuro.
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Alcalde Adrian O. Mapp
Ciudad de Plainfield
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Statement from Mayor Adrian O. Mapp and the City of Plainfield on the Passing of Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver | |
Come one, Come All And Bring
The Whole Family Out For A
Love Plainfield Day With The Somerset Patriots!
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The city of Plainfield would like to invite all residents out to the Ballpark for a special day with the Somerset Patriots, New York Yankees Double-A Baseball, close to home!
On Sunday, August 27th, the Somerset Patriots will honor the Negro Leagues and play as the New York Black Yankees! This will be the inaugural game of this annual event.
A discounted Ticket Rate of $10 has been established for residents of Plainfield.
Come one, Come all and bring the whole family out for this exciting day at the Ballpark. Get your tickets before they're all out!
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Plainfield Celebrates The
40th Annual National Night Out
Tuesday, August 1st
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What A Night In The Queen City! The evening started off with members of the City Council and Administration driving to multiple parks throughout Plainfield to hand out school supplies. Boys and girl of all ages went home happy and excited to start of the school year with their brand new bookbags.
Then, Black Lives Matter Plaza was buzzing with excitement as residents of all ages from all over the city came together to enjoy hot dogs prepared by Plainfield Police Officers, giveaways and resource information from multiple city departments, face painting, balloon artists, and much more! There were even special performances and presentations by the 40 Plus Double Dutch Club, the Senior Center Step Team, and the Queen City Mentoring Academy. There was something for everyone - including a car and bike show!
In attendance were City Council President Charles McRae, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, County Commissioner Rebecca Williams, City Council Vice-President Terri Briggs-Jones, Councilman Barry Goode, Councilman Robert Graham, Councilman Richard Wyatt, Economic Development Director Zenobia Fields, Police Department Director James Abney, and many more city officials.
The legacy of National Night Out in our city runs deep, as many of the parents attending recalled coming to this same event when they were Plainfield students. We look forward to the continued success of this event for many generations to come as we continue to strengthen the bond between our community and our police force.
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The Queen City Art Station Festival
Saturday, July 29th
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On Saturday, July 29th, Gavett Place and North Avenue were filled with the sights, tastes, and sounds of music, art, and food from around the world as the Queen City celebrated its first-ever Queen City Art Station!
The community came out and enjoyed the amazing live music and performances by incredible artists including a Mariachi group, a Steel Pan Drummer, Dance Performances, and incredible singers born and trained in the Queen City. There were opportunities to view and buy one-of-a-kind art by several local artists and business owners; Eat delicious dishes from a variety of food trucks; Take part in our Creative Kid's Corner as we work together to create a community art project, even a moment of Zumba, and much more!
This year we recognized our Love Plainfield: Landscape Competition winners on the stage...residents Beverly Lee-Thompson for Best Overall, and Samuel Campbell for Best Garden category. Great job to all the participants, and we look forward for many more next year.
In attendance were Mayor Adrian O. Mapp, Director of Economic Development Zenobia Fields, City Council President Charles McRae, City Council Vice-President Terri Briggs-Jones, Councilman Barry Goode, Councilman Robert Graham, Councilman Richard Wyatt, and other city officials.
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COME AND JOIN US FOR
THE QUEEN CITY STREET FAIR!
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On Saturday, June 24th, the City of Plainfield was buzzing as DJs entertained the city with music from across the globe, the scent of mouthwatering food tantalized the tastebuds, and the sweet sound of children’s excited screams and happy families resounded in the air as the Queen City Street Fair took over Gavett Place and North Avenue.
From an exciting line-up of food trucks and local vendors to stilt walkers, a magician, a beer garden, and a cigar truck, the Queen City Street Fair had it all! Excited residents eager to win prizes lined up to play fun and challenging carnival games; delicious food perfect for every palate flowed throughout the day; unicyclists and bubble blowers hyped up the crow; and DJs Troy, Cali-Era, and Zack Attack had everyone on their feet and dancing in the streets until way after nightfall.
It was an unforgettable day for our community, and it was just the beginning. Plainfield, mark your calendars because, by popular request, we are ready to do it all over again before the long summer days are over – this time BIGGER and BETTER!
Come prepared to climb a rock wall, Ride a mechanical bull, Get turned upside down the tumbleweed ride, and get dizzy on the tubs of fun as the music blasts all around you! Enter a mystical tent to get your fortune read and win special Plainfield prizes! Regardless of what you're looking for - whether it be delicious food, good music, carnival games & rides, or cultural vendors - all of it will be at Gavett Place and North Avenue on August 19th from 4:00-10:00PM.
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CALLING ALL RESIDENTS:
TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY TO ENTER
THE LOVE PLAINFIELD ART COMPETITION!
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(Haga clic en el anuncio para ver el folleto en español) | |
Do You Know What's Happening in Your City?
Click the image below and take a look at Plainfield's Latest City Events, Community Resources, and so much more!
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¿ How Do You Show Love for Plainfield? | |
A MESSAGE FROM
UNION COUNTY:
Union County Announces Summer Festival for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs
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The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like to invite all residents to participate in upcoming Opioid Settlement Funds Listening Sessions. The County will be holding these in-person sessions to gather public input on allocating the resources from the Opioid Settlement Funds.
please register at www.ucnj.org/dhs/opioid-settlement/ to ensure a spot:
August 8, 2023
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Plainfield Public Library
800 Park Avenue, Plainfield, NJ
During these sessions, participants will have a unique opportunity to share their experiences, express their concerns, and offer suggestions on how best to utilize the Opioid Settlement Funds. The insights and perspectives shared by the residents of Union County will be pivotal in shaping the county’s approach towards combating opioid addiction and enhancing community well-being.
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A MESSAGE FROM
THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY:
Statement from Governor Murphy on the Passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver
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A MESSAGE FROM
THE WHITE HOUSE:
Biden-Harris Administration Announces National Cyber Workforce and Education Strategy, Unleashing America’s Cyber Talent
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Today, the Biden-Harris Administration unveiled the National Cyber Workforce and Education Strategy (NCWES), a first-of-its-kind comprehensive approach aimed at addressing both immediate and long-term cyber workforce needs. Filling the hundreds of thousands of cyber job vacancies across our nation is a national security imperative and the Administration is making generational investments to prepare our country to lead in the digital economy. The NCWES is positioned to empower every American seeking to participate in our digital ecosystem and underscores the critical need to fill a vast number of vacant cyber jobs.
The approaches outlined in the NCWES will supplement the Administration’s ongoing efforts to grow and strengthen middle class working families, including through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. With the release of the NCWES, the Biden-Harris Administration is working to fill good paying, middle class jobs.
Many communities currently underrepresented in the cyber workforce do not envision themselves in cyber jobs or are not aware of the tremendous opportunity to join this important and growing workforce. The NCWES focuses on empowering Americans to pursue these career paths in cyber. Many of these jobs are attainable with a certificate or community college degree, and available now in your local community and across the country.
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HELP US TAKE CARE OF OUR CITY!
DOWNLOAD THE REPORT- IT APP
Available in IOS and Android Mobile Phones
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Exercise your civic duty-- be the eyes and ears of our City! Your reports can greatly increase the quality of life in our Plainfield community. Let's work together to keep our city safe- If you see it, say it with ReportIt. | |
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Use the app, or text
"reportit" to 63975
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Mayor Adrian O. Mapp and the City of Plainfield are committed to making it as easy as possible to report concerns in our city. To that end, we've partnered with REPORT IT, which is now live in Plainfield and ready to be used as an important supplemental reporting tool.
Report it makes community reporting easier than ever! Residents and visitors can download the app by scanning the barcode above or by going to your phone's app store. Your reports will be submitted to the appropriate City department to be resolved.
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|THE CITY OF PLAINFIELD NJ|
515 WATCHUNG AVENUE | 908-753-3310| MONDAY-FRIDAY | 9 A.M.- 5 P.M.|
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Creating One Plainfield. One Future. | | | | |
