"Give Thanks All Year Round"

Dear Jazz,

As the Mayor of Plainfield, I am often reminded of the countless reasons to be grateful, not only during the Thanksgiving season but throughout the entire year. It's a sentiment that deeply resonates with me as I witness the daily unfolding of life in our vibrant city. Plainfield, with its rich tapestry of diversity, is a microcosm of the world, and it's this very diversity that we must be thankful for every day.

Our city is a beautiful blend of cultures, languages, and traditions.

Each community, with its unique contributions, forms the heartbeat of Plainfield. This diversity is not just a characteristic of our city; it is our strength, our pride. In a world that often seems divided, Plainfield stands as a shining example of unity in diversity. It's a testament to the power of embracing our differences and learning from each other. This Thanksgiving, let's extend our gratitude beyond the dinner table and into our daily lives, celebrating the diverse fabric that makes our city whole.

During this season, I urge you to join me in embracing the movement to "Love Plainfield" which is more than a mere slogan; it's a call to action. It encourages us to actively engage in spreading positivity and unity throughout our community. This movement is about recognizing the good in our neighbors, celebrating our successes, and supporting each other through challenges. It's about creating a culture of appreciation and kindness that extends beyond the holiday season. By nurturing this movement, we ignite a continuous cycle of gratitude and goodwill in our city.

To take a different approach to saying thanks, I propose that we make it a habit to express our gratitude in tangible ways. Small acts of kindness, volunteering in community projects, supporting local businesses, and participating in cultural celebrations are all ways we can show our appreciation for our city and its people. Let's challenge ourselves to find new ways to give back and say thanks, not just with words but with actions.

Let's remember that giving thanks isn't just for Thanksgiving. It's a year-round commitment to recognizing and appreciating the diversity and unity that make Plainfield extraordinary. Let us continue to foster the "Love Plainfield" movement, turning our gratitude into actions that enrich our community. Together, we can build a stronger, more unified city grounded in the spirit of thankfulness and love.

#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield

Creating One Plainfield. One Future.

Sincerely,

Mayor Adrian O. Mapp

City of Plainfield

"Dando gracias todo el año"

Querido(a) Jazz,

Como alcalde de Plainfield, a menudo recuerdo las innumerables razones para estar agradecido, no sólo durante la temporada de Acción de Gracias sino durante todo el año. Es un sentimiento que resuena profundamente en mí al ser testigo del desarrollo diario de la vida en nuestra vibrante ciudad. Plainfield, con su rico tapiz de diversidad, es un microcosmos del mundo, y es precisamente esta diversidad la que debemos agradecer todos los días.

Nuestra ciudad es una hermosa mezcla de culturas, idiomas y tradiciones. Cada comunidad, con sus contribuciones únicas, forma el corazón de Plainfield. Esta diversidad no es sólo una característica de nuestra ciudad; es nuestra fuerza, nuestro orgullo. En un mundo que a menudo parece dividido, Plainfield es un brillante ejemplo de unidad en la diversidad. Es un testimonio del poder de aceptar nuestras diferencias y aprender unos de otros. Este Día de Acción de Gracias, extendamos nuestra gratitud más allá de la mesa y en nuestra vida diaria, celebrando el tejido diverso que hace que nuestra ciudad sea completa.

Durante esta temporada, les insto a que se unan a mí para abrazar el movimiento "Love Plainfield", que es más que un simple eslogan; es un llamado a la acción. Nos anima a participar activamente en la difusión de la positividad y la unidad en toda nuestra comunidad. Este movimiento trata de reconocer lo bueno de nuestros vecinos, celebrar nuestros éxitos y apoyarnos unos a otros a través de los desafíos. Se trata de crear una cultura de aprecio y amabilidad que se extienda más allá de la temporada navideña. Al alimentar este movimiento, iniciamos un ciclo continuo de gratitud y buena voluntad en nuestra ciudad.

Para adoptar un enfoque diferente al decir gracias, propongo que acostumbremos a expresar nuestra gratitud de manera tangible. Pequeños actos de bondad, ser voluntario en proyectos comunitarios, apoyar a empresas locales y participar en celebraciones culturales son formas en las que podemos mostrar nuestro aprecio por nuestra ciudad y su gente. Reteémonos a nosotros mismos a encontrar nuevas formas de retribuir y dar las gracias, no sólo con palabras sino con acciones.

Recordemos que dar gracias no es sólo por el Día de Acción de Gracias. Es un compromiso de todo el año para reconocer y apreciar la diversidad y la unidad que hacen de Plainfield algo extraordinario. Sigamos fomentando el movimiento "Love Plainfield", convirtiendo nuestra gratitud en acciones que enriquezcan a nuestra comunidad. Juntos podemos construir una ciudad más fuerte y unificada basada en el espíritu de agradecimiento y amor.

#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield

Creando Un Plainfield. Un Futuro.

Alcalde Adrian O. Mapp

Ciudad de Plainfield

A Generous Feast:

800 Turkeys Bring Thanksgiving Joy to Senior Citizens

- November 20, 2023

Monday, November 20, 2023 - Embracing the spirit of thanksgiving, unity, and generosity that characterizes this season, Mayor Mapp and the administration have continued a cherished tradition – spreading the joy of giving to our Queen City Seniors by gifting turkeys for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. This heartwarming initiative ensures that seniors feel remembered and valued and can contribute to a shared meal with their loved ones.

Thanks to our generous partners, the Economic Development team, and everyone who came out early on a frigid Monday morning to join Mayor Mapp, Councilman Robert Graham, and others to help us bag and label the turkeys. Senior residents in Cedarbrook Apartments, Richmond Towers, Covenant Manor, Belle Vita Estate, and members of the Plainfield Senior Center received approximately 800 turkeys!

As we gather at our Thanksgiving tables, let's remember it’s not just about an individual feast but an opportunity to share stories of how each of us came to be a part of the City of Plainfield.

Our diverse narratives contribute to the rich tapestry of our Queen City, and Thanksgiving becomes a beautiful occasion to celebrate and appreciate our collective journey.

So, let's extend our gratitude beyond the turkey and trimmings. Please take a moment to thank the residents who make our Queen City unique. Whether it's a friendly face at the local shops or a familiar presence in your neighborhood, let's share a moment of appreciation for all the collective blessings, no matter how large or small, that we may sometimes take for granted.

We wish you all a joyous and thankful Thanksgiving, Queen City!

Spreading Joy:

200+ Turkeys Distributed at the Heartwarming Fire & Police Department Turkey Giveaway

- November 20, 2023

In the spirit of giving and community, Plainfield’s Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Local #19 and Firefighters’ Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) Local #7 recently hosted their much-anticipated annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive.

Managed with great care and dedication by Officer Amber Williams, alongside a team of committed members, firefighters, and our esteemed council members Richard Wyatt and Robert Graham, this event took place just across the street from the Police Department.

The results were nothing short of extraordinary! Over 200 turkeys were thoughtfully distributed to our community members, ensuring that no one was left without a centerpiece for their Thanksgiving celebration. This act of generosity truly exemplifies the spirit of unity and care that defines our community.

Thank you all for your unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of our fellow community members. Together, we've made this Thanksgiving a little brighter for those we serve.

As we approach the holiday season, let this be a reminder of the positive impact we can collectively achieve. Together, we continue to build a stronger, more connected Plainfield.

CLICK FOR GALLERY

Over 2,000+ Turkey and Meal Packages Distributed to Local Food Pantries Around the City of Plainfield - November 21, 2023

On November 21, 2023, the City of Plainfield, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Services, orchestrated a significant Thanksgiving distribution event at the City Hall parking lot.

Over 2,000 turkeys, 1,638 roasters, 462 hams, and 826-holiday boxes, complete with all the fixings and trimmings (cranberry sauce, stuffing, canned veggies, etc.), were thoughtfully organized for distribution.

Starting promptly at 8:30 am, seventeen (17) Food Pantry organizations, as scheduled, arrived to collect cases of food for distribution across various Plainfield pantries. Noteworthy among them were eight local emergency food providers, including The Salvation Army, Neighborhood Health Services Corp., El Centro Hispanoamericano, and Bianca FLOWERS. Mayor Mapp graciously welcomed these organizations, some of which traveled from as far as the Township of Orange, Perth Amboy, and Elizabeth. All the food received will be swiftly turned around and distributed directly to residents by each organization.

A special thank you extends to Community Development Coordinator Donna Morrison, Director Shep Brown, Mayor Mapp, and the Department of Public Works for their invaluable contributions, ensuring the success of this impactful holiday distribution.

For those interested in picking up one of these wonderful holiday meals,

click the link for a list of food pantries around the City.

May this season of giving continue to inspire acts of kindness and unity throughout our community.

CLICK FOR GALLERY

"Voices of Plainfield"- In this edition and a series of upcoming Spring Newsletters, we shine the spotlight on remarkable individuals who have been nurtured by our city. Get ready to be inspired by the resilience, commitment, creativity, and accomplishments of our fellow Plainfielders.

Prepare to be inspired by community catalysts like Lamar Mackson, who passionately brought the film industry to Plainfield through the Queen City Film Festival, and Joanny Ortega, the visionary owner of "La Terraza" restaurant on Watchung Ave., who chose Plainfield as her second home and culinary canvas. Deborah Pearyer, Plainfield Native, Founder and director of Toddlers Learning Center, Celebrating 43 Years, and Bobby Gregory, a resident since 1988 who has witnessed the Queen City's remarkable transformations.

Join us for an inspiring journey through the heart of Plainfield!

CLICK FOR MORE!

Union County Officially To Hold Emergency Holiday Food Distributions On December 17th

UNION COUNTY, NJ — The Union County Board of County Commissioners is announcing two emergency food distribution events that will take place on Sunday, December 17, beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the campus of Kean University, located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union Township.

“With the holiday season fast approaching, the Commissioner Board and the County of Union are hosting these food distribution events, offering crucial support to residents facing financial challenges,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados, who also serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “Our goal is to alleviate the burden of meal expenses, ensuring that hunger does not affect the holiday experience for any of our Union County residents and their families. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated volunteers and staff, who have tirelessly served our community for over three years, and have continued to do so throughout various community-focused programs that include a focus on our commitment to eliminating holiday hunger.”

This event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and will take place rain or shine. Participants must have proof of NJ residency with them. The first 2,000 residents will receive a special holiday food box with produce and trimmings.

Participants are reminded to clear a space in their trunk or cargo area. Event staff will load the food into their vehicle. Boxes may include perishable items, so please make sure all fresh produce and items with a limited shelf life are refrigerated.

For more information about the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, or to find other food distribution locations, please visit https://cfbnj.org/findfood or text FINDFOOD at 908-224-7776.

For updates on all Union County COVID-19 services, please visit www.ucnj.org. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

The County of Union would like to thank Village Super Market and Gargiulo Produce, who have been continued partners over the last three years. To learn more about Village Super Market, visit https://www.myvillagesupermarket.com. To learn more about Gargiulo Produce, visit: http://www.gargiuloproduce.com.

Murphy Administration Adopts Zero-Emission Vehicle Standards to Improve Air Quality, Fight Climate Change, and Promote Clean Vehicle Choice

- November 21, 2023

TRENTON, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette today announced the filing of the Advanced Clean Cars II rule for adoption on December 18, setting the state on the road toward better air quality and cleaner choices for new car buyers while combatting the worsening climate crisis. New Jersey joins a growing number of states that are requiring vehicle manufacturers to make zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) an increasing percentage of their new light-duty vehicle sales beginning in model year 2027, ramping up to 100% ZEVs by 2035.

The rule does not impose obligations on consumers or car dealers and provides compliance flexibilities for manufacturers. It requires manufacturers of passenger cars and light-duty trucks to meet an annual ZEV requirement intended to increase the percentage of electric vehicles sold in New Jersey. The rule also ensures that traditional gasoline- and diesel-fueled vehicles are manufactured to meet more stringent exhaust emission standards, which will positively impact air quality in New Jersey communities, especially those near high-traffic corridors. The rule will take effect starting in model year 2027, providing time for auto industry transition and continued development of charging infrastructure and a more robust and cleaner electrical grid in New Jersey. It does not ban gasoline cars, nor does it force consumers to buy EVs. Rather, the rule will provide certainty to vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, utilities, and charging infrastructure companies to make the long-term investments that will be crucial to the large-scale deployment of light-duty ZEVs and consumer choice.

“By filing the landmark Advanced Clean Cars II rule, New Jersey builds upon its standing as a national leader in climate action and its participation in the global Accelerating to Zero commitment,” said Governor Murphy. “The steps we take today to lower emissions will improve air quality and mitigate climate impacts for generations to come, all while increasing access to cleaner car choices. Indeed, together with my Administration’s continuing investments in voluntary electric vehicle incentives, charging infrastructure, and the green economy, these new standards will preserve consumer choice and promote affordability for hardworking New Jerseyans across the state.”

“Cleaner cars and trucks mean cleaner air for our children and families because the tailpipes of our own vehicles are a leading cause of poor local air quality,” said Commissioner LaTourette. “As New Jersey transitions to a zero-emission vehicle future, we will improve our quality of life and public health. At the same time, we will reduce climate pollutants from the transportation sector, the greatest source of planet-warming pollution in New Jersey and the nation.”

The rule will be published in the Dec. 18 edition of the New Jersey Register. A courtesy, pre-publication copy of the rule will be posted in early December to the DEP Rules and Regulations webpage.

Click to Read More.

Ahead of Small Business Saturday, Biden-⁠Harris Administration Announces Latest Steps to Support Small Businesses

Department of the Treasury announces $50 million to help underserved small businesses secure financing; Small Business Administration delivers $50 billion to small businesses and sees record loans to minority businesses

NOVEMBER 21, 2023 - In advance of Small Business Saturday on November 25^th, the Biden-Harris Administration is announcing new actions to support small businesses—a key pillar of Bidenomics—and releasing new data that highlights the small business boom taking place during this Administration. Under President Biden, Americans have filed a record 14.6 million applications to start businesses – a sign that the historic investment in small businesses is driving confidence and optimism from entrepreneurs, and generating more resilient and competitive markets.

Entrepreneurs of color are particularly benefiting from the Biden-Harris Administration’s increased lending and investments in small businesses. Data from the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances shows that between 2019 and 2022, the share of families owning a business increased by 9%, with particularly large increases among Black and Hispanic households. The percent of Black households owning a business during this same period more than doubled — after falling between 2007 and 2019. These increases support wealth building in Black and Hispanic communities, as business owners report more wealth as compared to non-business owners in this survey. And under President Biden, we’ve achieved the fastest growth in Black business ownership in over 30 years.

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click "whitehouse.gov" bottom to read more

WHITEHOUSE.GOV