tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19092465713667893342024-03-13T22:42:39.854-04:00PLAINFIELD TODAYDelivered to 15,000 Plainfield "doorsteps"
Monday, Wednesday, Friday & SundayDanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.comBlogger5366125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-45352844261771435972020-05-05T01:26:00.000-04:002020-05-05T09:03:09.969-04:00Jean Mattson passes, photographer, curator, Plainfield cultural icon<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCEbuRvuCLaySFEFuD3AHHjzRkKZK4MlLcIin09JF5Hjp1phSCwOxFrHpDXK0_t4o62tHzPFyjo8EjdfHFPfpPwXZWcFcoNJLM7EVkwQBpofkcx9zcHS4lG6W8qYXnzWVMZ4TnBqJfm0/s1600/People-Mattson-Jean-pres-HSOP-Jun2001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCEbuRvuCLaySFEFuD3AHHjzRkKZK4MlLcIin09JF5Hjp1phSCwOxFrHpDXK0_t4o62tHzPFyjo8EjdfHFPfpPwXZWcFcoNJLM7EVkwQBpofkcx9zcHS4lG6W8qYXnzWVMZ4TnBqJfm0/s640/People-Mattson-Jean-pres-HSOP-Jun2001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Jean Mattson (center), president of the Historical Society of Plainfield <br />conducts the 2001 annual meeting.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Plainfield cultural icon Jean Mattson passed away on May 1 at her home.<br />
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I knew Jean as a photographer, an indefatigable events and exhibits
organizer, and as a friend. She was indeed, as her daughter Lois has said, a
force of nature.<br />
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Her photography was masterful, with attention paid to every detail. (For my notice of her 2010 retrospective show at the Plainfield Public
Library, click <a href="https://ptoday.blogspot.com/2010/04/jean-mattson-photo-exhibit-opens.html"><i><u>here</u></i></a>.)<br />
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Over the years, she began a continuing project of recording the images of
the Plainfield men and women who had been crucial in some of the great
civil rights struggles of the 20th century.<br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">Eventually, she expanded
that project to include a broad segment of Plainfield people and
presented the final work as an exhibit at the Plainfield Public Library.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbgYI1epqfn1kuv8T-1pm7PQEEykuIuMV0lWdhvCwyKsyH2cEezwZZqn6cRPED3-xCyY8JbCFSU4THBQ0wPQA7aRFNxxolAb9E6HQZyu39xdVB-2Ea_3kfWKucCjPcqAevCzp4FH-UGM/s1600/Mattson-Jean-YoungGirlOnBench-PPLExhibit-Apr2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbgYI1epqfn1kuv8T-1pm7PQEEykuIuMV0lWdhvCwyKsyH2cEezwZZqn6cRPED3-xCyY8JbCFSU4THBQ0wPQA7aRFNxxolAb9E6HQZyu39xdVB-2Ea_3kfWKucCjPcqAevCzp4FH-UGM/s640/Mattson-Jean-YoungGirlOnBench-PPLExhibit-Apr2010.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />'Young girl on a bench,' from Jean's 2010 show.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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She also celebrated her Irish roots and mounted an exhibition of photographs from her travels in Ireland in another Library show.<br />
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But perhaps Jean's most important contributions to Plainfield's diversity were the events she organized.<br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">In 2000, Jean put together
an exhibit at the Library entitled "100 Years of Plainfield Artists",
drawing on Plainfield's many talented artists -- such as painters Riva
Helfond, Alonzo Adams, Indira Bailey, and landscape artist Gerri Heydt -- as well as recognizing
artists of the past with Plainfield connections, such as Jonas Lie.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNPbPbqmqbi4fWjJET08AffQjQaOKVoVy3IaGLVV18hknL63liJBGVsqVtCuyO4FNvkn5w2U-pG7Y8Q0AL8KuqGlTiytPwuZLiGkuRU9w8Gs7_cxHXRjQVXf58WJCL2tRZrjwaoUmvoE/s1600/People-Mattson-Jean-100yrsPlfdArtists-Apr2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNPbPbqmqbi4fWjJET08AffQjQaOKVoVy3IaGLVV18hknL63liJBGVsqVtCuyO4FNvkn5w2U-pG7Y8Q0AL8KuqGlTiytPwuZLiGkuRU9w8Gs7_cxHXRjQVXf58WJCL2tRZrjwaoUmvoE/s640/People-Mattson-Jean-100yrsPlfdArtists-Apr2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Jean at '100 Years of Plainfield Artists' in April, 2000.<br />(l ro r) Gerri Heydt, Mayor Al McWilliams, and Indira Bailey.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">She also put together an
exhaustive exhibit of 20th century Plainfield life, decade by decade.
Her rich connections to the community resulted in many families lending
photographs, ephemera, clippings, programs and other material never seen
by the public.<br />
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In addition, Jean was a motive force behind <i>Ethfest</i>, a celebration of
Plainfield's cultural diversity in music, dance, and arts and crafts.
The series of festivals, which ran from 2000 through 2002, was made
possible by the support of Mayor Albert McWilliams.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Jean and Mayor McWilliams pose with Guyanese<br />participants in first Ethfest, 2000.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8wvS8Zny1H44D0zU5YwrVYZXB_Z9lFeiulsR3A6nlWO2RG95yqwruAVsdV7HFyzhnF5kHLB325Zm4FXlqXrxmYzAHdBKzwoa58rwgF_KcKKrWK7hcIuPlA0I7WsiPXO4LSKT6K4OfZpc/s1600/Ethfest2002-Peruvian-musicians-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="768" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8wvS8Zny1H44D0zU5YwrVYZXB_Z9lFeiulsR3A6nlWO2RG95yqwruAVsdV7HFyzhnF5kHLB325Zm4FXlqXrxmYzAHdBKzwoa58rwgF_KcKKrWK7hcIuPlA0I7WsiPXO4LSKT6K4OfZpc/s640/Ethfest2002-Peruvian-musicians-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Peruvian musicians perform at Ethfest 2002.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Crowds thronged Ethfest 2002 at Cedar Brook Park.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">She served on the Plainfield Cultural & Heritage Commission and on the board of Plainfield's museum, the Drake House.<br />
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But as much as I valued Jean's contributions to the community, she was also a friend.<br />
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The first time I met her, shortly after moving to Plainfield, she
remarked that her daughter Lois and I "must have been separated at
birth," a joke that caused hilarity over the years.<br />
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Nat and I were adopted into the family and spent many years together at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.<br />
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Christmas Eve dinner, following Swedish customs and menu, was invariably
served at Jean and Moose's landmark Ravine Road home, after which we
all would attend Midnight Mass.<br />
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For years, when Al McWilliams' star was on the rise as mayor, Jean could
be seen riding her bike throughout the neighborhood, soliciting anyone
she met to vote for McWilliams, who referred to her simply as "the
Citizen".<br />
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Owing to Covid-19 restrictions, a small, private funeral will be
celebrated Thursday, with Canon Robert Griner officiating. You can read
the online obituary at Higgins Home for Funerals <a href="https://higginsfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/3816/Jeanette-Mattson/obituary.html#tribute-start"><i><u>here</u></i></a>. The family plans a memorial service after the pandemic restrictions are eased.<br />
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Jean, I shall miss you greatly, but suspect you are already organizing an exhibition that will outdo all your previous efforts.<br />
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Rest in peace.</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-67634030834551448962020-05-03T01:04:00.002-04:002020-05-03T01:42:36.831-04:00Social distance and stay-at-home have helped Plainfield 'flatten the curve'<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwT5TNbjPRipP0ZfzPTTeGoY1feNcDMJfhDRlGaYawdscsmoET6tOfIMm6sY9ljPHQzV8PBSZET2xmdBJSlnA9fyme5GPjpxF_7HvVOvv3ntDrkqySZSs0BOkYKuvjpJUPmLEozGkzOU/s1600/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="634" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwT5TNbjPRipP0ZfzPTTeGoY1feNcDMJfhDRlGaYawdscsmoET6tOfIMm6sY9ljPHQzV8PBSZET2xmdBJSlnA9fyme5GPjpxF_7HvVOvv3ntDrkqySZSs0BOkYKuvjpJUPmLEozGkzOU/s640/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200501.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Expected (upper) vs. actual (lower) cases in Plainfield,<br />last thirteen days.<br />.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Plainfielders' adoption of
Gov. Murphy's stay-at-home and social distance have enabled Plainfield
to 'flatten the curve'. That, plus masks and plenty of good,
old-fashioned hand-scrubbing.<br />
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But how do you know anything good is happening? News of hospitalizations
in alarming numbers and rising death tolls just keep coming at you. It
can be frightening, and unnerving even to the most steeled.<br />
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But there is a way of knowing how far we are along in the process of a
swelling curve and eventual dropping to manageable levels.<br />
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It involves the authorities keeping (and sharing) reliable, accurate data on a regular basis.<br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">And a key way of noticing change over time is <u>the number of days it takes for the number of cases to double</u>.<br /><br />In the chart above, we have been watching for the doubling of the last 'marker' figure of 863 on April 18. Instead of doubling in 8 days, as previously, it looks to be reaching that mark on May2 -- or 13 days -- 5 days more than the last doubling. Evidence of 'flattening the curve'.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">In the earliest days of the
crisis, when many people were distracted because the numbers seemed so
small and others outright disbelieved there was a crisis, the speed with
which cases of infection double was astonishing.<br />
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In the earliest days of Plainfield's noting growth in cases, they doubled every three days, then every four.<br />
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On April, they reached 863 and the most recent double period had been
eight days. My suspicion was that we were approaching the crest of the
wave, which I detailed in this chart --</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabeQnvbkLm-f76yow55U2gW95IijFNtzDHoMVZsJgRDVNX7PLm8bllaqExvC5GxywenLQ0RJVdymmJtDLuLfszZO9kJWhMj4y5_1b3ZeS0T_WdmdIQpVYBdKRNFh2GoQhcLpKfr8nGu8/s1600/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="672" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabeQnvbkLm-f76yow55U2gW95IijFNtzDHoMVZsJgRDVNX7PLm8bllaqExvC5GxywenLQ0RJVdymmJtDLuLfszZO9kJWhMj4y5_1b3ZeS0T_WdmdIQpVYBdKRNFh2GoQhcLpKfr8nGu8/s640/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200421.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />The moment it dawned we might be reaching the crest.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">An unexpected stay at JFK
meant I was away from my computer and tools for a week, but that week
gave us a definite glance at how things were developing (that chart is
at the top of this post).<br />
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I think it is safe to say the coronavirus has crested in Plainfield.<br />
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<u><b>WHAT THIS MEANS</b></u></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><u>Infections will continue</u>, rising more slowly than previously, but rising.<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">It will become apparent through testing that <u>a larger percentage of the population than previously thought has been infected</u> with the virus (many only mildly).<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><u>Hospitalizations will continue</u>, though at a decreasing pace.<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><u>The most vulnerable</u> -- the elderly and those with compromised immune systems -- <u>will continue to be at greater risk</u>.<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><u>The pressure to take the lid off will be considerable</u>
-- folks are tired of being cooped up and unable to participate in
normal daily life or gatherings (weddings, funerals). But experts warn
that taking the lid off too fast could put us back in the same pickle.
Part of this, of course, is citizen cooperation. Do your part!</span></li>
</ul>
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Just on Saturday, Gov. Murphy bowed to growing pressure to re-open State
and County parks. No group sports or activities -- yet. Social distance
applies. But you can be out in the fresh air!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">Gov. Murphy has a six-point
program for re-opening businesses and we can expect to see progress on
that front in the next few days.<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
Plainfielders can be proud of the role they have played in 'flattening the curve'.<br />
<br />
And we can be proud of our first responders and health care workers who
put themselves in deadly danger to administer care to victims.<br />
<br />Other towns are recognizing these people with daily noisemaking at an
appointed time. We should be thinking about what Plainfield will do to
remember the victims, honor the healthcare workers and recognize citizen
contributions.</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>
<br />
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</div>
<hr size="2" width="100%" />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>
<br />
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 18.0pt;">-- Dan Damon</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;"> [</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="http://twitter.com/ptoday"><b>follow</b></a></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;">]</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-44953253171390534582020-04-22T01:41:00.000-04:002020-04-22T01:41:39.574-04:00Are Plainfield coronavirus cases peaking?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdXG_gBOFCVPsJ6cv9QKr-5j6XqHH_hHJ4U9WAd1LSsoAdJusHoVCcY781pBdrnZG-ZT4YRTGu1eiHkgwDsURGB1RszPmYs_mQIsxvNpJpIBWrnRq9-IXnYnkbJNDBwjIYL7631CRyhg/s1600/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="672" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdXG_gBOFCVPsJ6cv9QKr-5j6XqHH_hHJ4U9WAd1LSsoAdJusHoVCcY781pBdrnZG-ZT4YRTGu1eiHkgwDsURGB1RszPmYs_mQIsxvNpJpIBWrnRq9-IXnYnkbJNDBwjIYL7631CRyhg/s640/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200421.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Tracking new cases, which are falling behind expectations.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">April 18 was the start of a
period of measuring the next doubling of Covid-19 cases in Plainfield.
The previous doubling was in 8 days.<br />
<br />
If the pattern of doubling remained at 8 days, we would expect
to reach approximately 1,726 cases on April 26. That would mean,
on average, 108 new cases per day (based on the 4/10 to 4/18
changes).<br />
<br />This chart is structured with two series -- the ACTUAL counts in front and the EXPECTED counts in the rear.<br />
<br />
The chart suggests Plainfield is reaching the peak in new cases.<br />
<br />Unfortunately, since we do not have data on Plainfield
hospitalizations (which also would be decreasing at some point), we only
have the raw number of cases identified to help us understand what is
going on.<br />
<br />
I will update this chart with each day's new figures.<br />
<br />
Be patient and watch carefully.</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>
<br />
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</div>
<hr size="2" width="100%" />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>
<br />
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 18.0pt;">-- Dan Damon</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;"> [</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="http://twitter.com/ptoday"><b>follow</b></a></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;">]</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-49976590051771944592020-04-20T00:48:00.002-04:002020-04-20T00:49:11.037-04:00A hopeful sign in Plainfield coronavirus cases?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4DeRLMF35kHWBhLQD88j9fcjoQbOvL8Ti1Tw4Rcz7XXAFHEzJ0btgcdJ5XtSlA5DUwDU_dZb82_5K2-xGr96mqNQQyc1DrWOCnpsgdhNE0yvAFzSKTp24HFZaFbkVxv284l3SAXU8Gc/s1600/Coronavirus-swab-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="768" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4DeRLMF35kHWBhLQD88j9fcjoQbOvL8Ti1Tw4Rcz7XXAFHEzJ0btgcdJ5XtSlA5DUwDU_dZb82_5K2-xGr96mqNQQyc1DrWOCnpsgdhNE0yvAFzSKTp24HFZaFbkVxv284l3SAXU8Gc/s640/Coronavirus-swab-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Testing is now going to become very important.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">One has to wonder if Plainfield has seen a hopeful sign in the growth of coronavirus cases.<br />
<br />
On Sunday evening (April 19), Mayor Mapp reported that the total of coronavirus cases had reached 940.<br />
<br />
Based on the chart I developed yesterday (see <a href="http://ptoday.blogspot.com/2020/04/how-many-fewer-cases-of-coronavirus-has.html"><i><u>here</u></i></a>), this could be an inkling of good news.<br />
<br />
Last night's total was 863. Last night was also the start of a new period of days to see when cases had doubled again.<br />
<br />
If the pattern of doubling remained at 8 days, we would expect to reach
approximately 1,726 cases on April 26. That would mean, on average, 108
new cases per day (based on the 4/10 to 4/18 changes).<br />
<br />
With a total of 863 on 4/18, today's total might be expected to be 863+108 = 971.<br />
<br />
What Mayor Mapp reports for today is 940. This is 31 fewer than might be expected on average.<br />
<br />
If the trend continues, we would have a pretty strong indicator that Plainfield has topped out.<br />
<br />
Be patient and watch carefully.</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>
<br />
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</div>
<hr size="2" width="100%" />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>
<br />
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 18.0pt;">-- Dan Damon</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;"> [</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="http://twitter.com/ptoday"><b>follow</b></a></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;">]</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-52531949018309943942020-04-19T02:20:00.001-04:002020-04-19T11:53:54.526-04:00How many fewer cases of coronavirus has Plainfield experienced because of social distance and stay-at-home?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsfrDJ22A-SDXhjSC4USdoI3l3g87ABaJXsxOivsQt-ZYAzK7245KYSb9_O0Jx4B0uWnLTo6ZYPMnUY6dVSro6DVR3asW1be1AmXutGLaPd8NM_whi1PenrLrXwI5jxYy08KFcv_w0GMk/s1600/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="639" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsfrDJ22A-SDXhjSC4USdoI3l3g87ABaJXsxOivsQt-ZYAzK7245KYSb9_O0Jx4B0uWnLTo6ZYPMnUY6dVSro6DVR3asW1be1AmXutGLaPd8NM_whi1PenrLrXwI5jxYy08KFcv_w0GMk/s640/Coronavirus-chart-plainfield-200418.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Coronavirus cases in Plainfield as of 4/18/2020.<br />(Click to enlarge or print.)</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">As Plainfield nears the
end of its first month under Gov. Phil Murphy's stay-at-home order, it
seems a good time to assess how the coronavirus has impacted our
community and survey the heavy lifting that will need to be done for
even a minimal recovery.<br />
<br />
As of Saturday, April 18, Plainfield has 863 active cases of the virus and has suffered the loss of 21 lives.<br />
<br />
No one knows when the pandemic will crest, though the state is projecting around April 25.<br />
<br />
It is certain though, that Plainfielders' compliance with the governor's
order -- with help from elected officials, robocalls, and policing -- has meant a
remarkable "flattening of the curve" of active cases.<br />
<br />
In discussing "flattening the curve", it is key to keep an eye on how long it takes for the number of cases to
double. Early on Plainfield's rate of doubling was every three days,
which quickly lengthened as stay-at-home and social distancing were
observed.<br />
<br />
Here is what Plainfield's experience looks like --<br />
<br />
</span>
</span><br />
<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 70%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><u>Date</u><br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><u># Days</u><br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><u># Cases</u><br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3/25<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">27<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3/28<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">54<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/01<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">108<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/05<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">221<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/10<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">5<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">433<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/18<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">8<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">863<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Increasing the number of days between cases doubling results in "flattening the curve."<br />
<br />
If there had been no mitigation efforts by authorities and residents,
here's what Plainfield cases could have looked like. Assuming cases
doubling every three days (as at the beginning) and there was no other
intervention, here is how the picture could have looked --<br />
<br />
</span></span>
</span><br />
<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 80%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Date</span></b></u></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"># Days</span></b></u></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"># Cases</span></b></u></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3/25<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">27<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3/28<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">54<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3/31<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">108<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">216<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/06<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">432<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/09<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">864<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/12<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">1,728<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/15<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3,456<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">4/18<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">3<br />
</span></b></span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">6,912 est.<br />
</span></b></span></td>
</tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
So, you can see, the inconvenience of the stay-at-home decree has had an
enormous impact on the number of lives NOT put at jeopardy in Plainfield.<br />
<br />
Large scale testing would enable authorities to have an even better
grasp on how widespread the virus actually is, and how long it would
take the healthcare system to get the situation under some measure of
control.<br />
<br />
In my next post, I will take up the other, non-medical issues facing
Plainfield, its leaders and its residents as a result of the
coronavirus.</span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-44575932769176436462020-04-14T21:59:00.004-04:002020-04-14T22:01:25.827-04:00Mari Bonini, longtime Plainfield Library trustee and community activist, succumbs to coronavirus<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuGKsdlYfvTC_aY1WebM1jLsSc-mM2xaE1NTlIn8rfc2id2JE6yvrCFyDsWla0Acqfh1FKSLHCMqqD8BAgYDDCvv-IfxbNI6HgdRY_H9z5FRLW1yuI5WaShPdfNcKpGT8MDAn5CsBomI/s1600/Obit-Bonini-Mari-200414-ppl.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="135" data-original-width="180" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuGKsdlYfvTC_aY1WebM1jLsSc-mM2xaE1NTlIn8rfc2id2JE6yvrCFyDsWla0Acqfh1FKSLHCMqqD8BAgYDDCvv-IfxbNI6HgdRY_H9z5FRLW1yuI5WaShPdfNcKpGT8MDAn5CsBomI/s400/Obit-Bonini-Mari-200414-ppl.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Mari Bonini, during her tenure as<br />Plainfield Public Library trustee.<br />(Image courtesy Plainfield Public Library.)</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Mari Bonini, longtime Plainfield Public Library trustee and community activist succumbed to the coronavirus today (April 14).<br />
<br />
I first met Mari in 1986, when we both began to work for Burgdorff
Realtors in Fanwood. We had adjoining desks and often took lunch
together at The Corner Store.<br />
<br />
Jean Burgdorff had just taken over the real estate business of Hank
Fredericks, whose father had begun the office on the corner of South and
Martine Avenues in 1921.<br />
<br />
Mrs. Burgdorff had in mind to build a strong base in Plainfield sales
and recruited an outstanding team under broker Connie Burke that
included Mari, Kitty Lynch, and John Grady -- all seasoned pros. I was a
newbie.<br />
<br />
It wasn't long before Mari and I became personal friends through involvement in Plainfield issues.<br />
<br />
Mari served for 14 years as an appointed member of the Board of Education.<br />
<br />
She was on the Muhlenberg Hospital Board of Governors, and active in the
Women's Auxiliary. In addition, she sat on the board of the Plainfield
Visiting Nurse Association.<br />
<br />
She was an early supporter of Mayor Al McWilliams and served for several
terms as a New Dem member of the Plainfield Democratic City Committee.
She was well-known for her role as a Notary Public in notarizing all the
New Dem electoral petitions for many years.<br />
<br />
Most recently, Mari served for over twenty years on the Library board
--he holding every office from President to Treasurer -- and finally
retiring in 2018.<br />
<br />
When I first met them, Mari and her husband Joe were pillars of St.
Bernard's Church, where Joe played in guitar masses, which were popular
after the Vatican II reforms.<br />
<br />
Arrangements are in the hands of the Higgins Home for Funerals (see the obituary page <a href="https://higginsfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/3772/Mari-Bonini/obituary.html"><i><u>here</u></i></a>).
There will be a Live-streamed funeral service at 5:00 PM on Friday,
April 17. For more information on the service, contact the funeral home
at (908) 756-0017.</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-39423352119931916092020-04-12T23:41:00.005-04:002020-04-13T06:20:08.721-04:00Council sets first-ever virtual meeting for Monday; the public is invited<div align="center">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Kv5H_gJejcq13yVLZhhhX2l_HkYNUnfdrYO24KQWGSkSp54Jenwibh3qz0efWCYeILbNGz3YmCUcRNt5w_fsY1x-9oD6NJCnuLc7VHp4TCIOBdEkxBzsaVlRPbngWCurEXcX8sTdT4w/s1600/Videoconference-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="768" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Kv5H_gJejcq13yVLZhhhX2l_HkYNUnfdrYO24KQWGSkSp54Jenwibh3qz0efWCYeILbNGz3YmCUcRNt5w_fsY1x-9oD6NJCnuLc7VHp4TCIOBdEkxBzsaVlRPbngWCurEXcX8sTdT4w/s640/Videoconference-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />City Council will hold its first-ever virtual meeting<br />Monday, and the public can participate.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Plainfield City Council has set its first-ever virtual meeting for Monday (April 13) at 7:00 PM.<br />
<br />
This is a video conference call. You must register to participate. Register here --</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span>
<br />
<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4998772791474831628">https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4998772791474831628<br /></a></span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">The principal item of business is the introduction of the 2020 City of Plainfield budget, in excess of $88 million.<br />
<br />
The City is already said to be facing a shortfall of tax receipts in the
area of $18 million owing to the business shutdown precipitated by the
Coronavirus crisis.<br />
<br />
How this shortfall will impact both the upcoming budget and current
spending ought to be a topic of discussion at the Council meeting.<br />
<br />
Other items of interest include a resolution sponsored by Council
President Hockaday in support of state legislation mandating the release
of COVID-19 data.<br />
<br />
Resolution R160-20 authorizes the use of storm recovery funds for
unexpected COVID-19 expenditures. That money would be replaced with any
FEMA monies received.<br />
<br />
There are no instructions about when to call in to participate in the
meeting. I would suggest calling the Clerk's office during the day
Monday for further information, at (908) 753-3222.<br /><br />Oh, and by the way ... those who were skeptical when I predicted a tax increase for the 2020 budget can find the exact amount in the resolution introducing the proposed budget.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-22368304683498153862020-04-11T23:21:00.003-04:002020-04-11T23:24:55.878-04:00How Plainfield got to 472 COVID-19 cases<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8pCsHryLCDaPB2PmV1ZYzFqyF1hI6VrLlvbBj2iw0ARGrNq2vg72lBd7tPfeYn0yuuu0zJ8Q9YMXlJjJnEWrS_NSwnV_UvtmaaoQ6x1JMHbeFH6LG2Td-av-8s9yfD4ovTMIzrRRh3_Y/s1600/Coronavirus-Plainfield-cases-200411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="624" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8pCsHryLCDaPB2PmV1ZYzFqyF1hI6VrLlvbBj2iw0ARGrNq2vg72lBd7tPfeYn0yuuu0zJ8Q9YMXlJjJnEWrS_NSwnV_UvtmaaoQ6x1JMHbeFH6LG2Td-av-8s9yfD4ovTMIzrRRh3_Y/s640/Coronavirus-Plainfield-cases-200411.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Growth in Plainfield's COVID-19 cases.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7Y79FSofvOc3NT0Vq7_-HEZJ6UaOI1C3PM6Dpxhs2i91vvnPF33HclPtq1PCpxpiIjISrAxiVD-IOMZ_Ux4U0lRaU3zaoOb7buQZkhZDKN5LhJgRkGpIwsk7stqneLUbG6v8rzhU0No/s1600/Coronavirus-NJ--cases-200409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="720" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7Y79FSofvOc3NT0Vq7_-HEZJ6UaOI1C3PM6Dpxhs2i91vvnPF33HclPtq1PCpxpiIjISrAxiVD-IOMZ_Ux4U0lRaU3zaoOb7buQZkhZDKN5LhJgRkGpIwsk7stqneLUbG6v8rzhU0No/s640/Coronavirus-NJ--cases-200409.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />New Jersey case growth (through Thursday).</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
While the Mapp administration has been assiduous about releasing the
latest Coronavirus case figures on an almost daily basis, several
readers have asked for figures on the growth of the pandemic virus in
Plainfield.<br />
<br />
The chart above is based on the numbers released by the Mapp
administration. The very first case was reported on March 16. No other
cases were reported until March 24, which is where the chart starts.<br />
<br />
For comparison, I am putting up the New Jersey chart (to 4/8/20). State
authorities have said they expect the number of cases to peak in the
next day or two.<br />
<br />
The chart does not show hospitalizations or individuals who have been quarantined.<br />
<br />
The fact that Plainfield's numbers did not peak even higher can be
attributed to the public's cooperation with the shelter-in-place order
by Gov. Murphy and other safety measures (such as masks).<br />
<br />
Now is not the time to ease up on any of these measures.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-17890877891454503742020-04-10T02:54:00.001-04:002020-04-10T02:54:11.799-04:00Lady Luck deals Dems a surprise at ballot position drawing<div align="center">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmD2snihKoqJkkqX63TxkPN526VqOT7Fc_1gLuQ_fL_xKaSvoNzEe4_AAeV223QWcz-OsCpjdzDA5ADH-hWEZUxjYIL80HTrPh8DTkiZhlUQ3NXqyUVs99PWQX-WZC2KpmfK4haA48cHs/s1600/2020-Primary-positions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="960" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmD2snihKoqJkkqX63TxkPN526VqOT7Fc_1gLuQ_fL_xKaSvoNzEe4_AAeV223QWcz-OsCpjdzDA5ADH-hWEZUxjYIL80HTrPh8DTkiZhlUQ3NXqyUVs99PWQX-WZC2KpmfK4haA48cHs/s640/2020-Primary-positions.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />Sample ballot, showing drawing results taped in place.<br />Image courtesy Union County Clerk's Office.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<span ms="" sans-serif="" trebuchet=""><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span ms="" trebuchet=""><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Lady Luck dealt the Union County Democratic Party something of a
surprise on Thursday afternoon at the drawing for the ballot position in
the Democratic Primary election.<br />
<br />
County Clerk Joann Rajoppi and her assistants conducted the eight-minute
event on Facebook Live because of the Coronavirus ban on public
meetings. You can view video of the drawing <a href="http://www.unioncountyvotes.com/"><i><u>here</u></i></a>.<br />
<br />
All the years the New Dems wandered in the political wilderness, the
Promised Land of politics was Column A, being the first column of
candidates the voters see.<br />
<br />
Despite the fact that drawing are supposed to be random, it seemed the
Regular Democratic Organization always came out ahead. As New Dems we
were relegated to the "Siberia" of column E or even further to the
right.<br />
<br />
So, it was a real surprise that challengers David Rutherford and Emily Morgan ended up with ballot position Column A.<br />
<br />
Although not in their own names. Slates of candidates are organized according to the topmost office a candidate is running for.<br />
<br />
In the case of the Progressive Democrats, Rutherford and Morgan are
running with the indomitable Larry Hamm of Newark, who is running for
the nomination for U.S. Senator against incumbent Cory Booker.<br />
<br />
So, when the drawing was down, it was Hamm whose name was pasted into the appropriate space, and then Booker in Column B.<br />
<br />
Clerk Rajoppi now has the task of filling in all the other spaces, down to the
least municipal candidate and then having the printed sample ballot
ready to mail to voters in good time.<br />
<br />
Because of Gov. Murphy's Executive Order Number 120, and out of an
abundance of caution, the Primary Election date has been moved to
Tuesday, July 7.</span></span></span></span><br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-23488501843178579582020-04-09T09:25:00.000-04:002020-04-10T02:40:33.169-04:00Negative can be good<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkgigD8wMaY2AlJyHe35Xm9v0dEdFTFCyE4GIwJ_yjLVGNe7PTfCUc5SY-esJrA4Cb5COhtYle_2LSa_xrfMY4mD88degZ4WtYgkqStdIiUeljLJWNMkj_x50tevXRK3INw-FaPI4fL8/s1600/Dialysis-chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="768" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkgigD8wMaY2AlJyHe35Xm9v0dEdFTFCyE4GIwJ_yjLVGNe7PTfCUc5SY-esJrA4Cb5COhtYle_2LSa_xrfMY4mD88degZ4WtYgkqStdIiUeljLJWNMkj_x50tevXRK3INw-FaPI4fL8/s640/Dialysis-chairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />The dialysis environment is super clean.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />So, Dan's wild & crazy week turns out not to be so much.<br />
<br />
I had to get tested for the coronavirus because there were two warning
signs of three that are used: shortness of breath and persistent dry
cough (the third is fever).<br />
<br />
The test results came back Tuesday (I was told it could be up to ten
days) -- before I ever even went to my alternative treatment center.<br />
<br />
The Plainfield director asked if I would just rather come to Plainfield on an altered schedule. No problema!<br />
<br />
All of this was out of an abundance of caution on DaVita's part. All dialysis patients have compromised immune systems.<br />
<br />
Infections of all sorts are a constant risk -- so the coronavirus only heightens the attention already paid to these matters.<br />
<br />
Our chairs -- which are about 8' apart -- are wiped down with each use.
Everyone wears masks and gloves, changing gloves after every function
they perform. These are habits that become invisible, but they protect
patients and staff.<br />
<br />
I am thankful to DaVita for their thoroughness. And thanks to the many well-wishers who gave encouraging words.<br />
<br />
Now, back to business.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-10659700630860801282020-04-06T21:36:00.001-04:002020-04-06T21:39:42.516-04:00Plainfield landlord to tenant: Get a lawyer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBRS31sWdyD8MpfzIdhZJ9NB02nleGwp7XrMdK8YUB12kY2vgyLLWnfX3FOE-1Jou629zLyXiZyj7dqEl4Wb6ahlWONI3aTqgyw3OJXeeFztGDUeiuWSxOX4y7Xh0Ad9iFMaeanrpq-U/s1600/L-Paramount-assets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBRS31sWdyD8MpfzIdhZJ9NB02nleGwp7XrMdK8YUB12kY2vgyLLWnfX3FOE-1Jou629zLyXiZyj7dqEl4Wb6ahlWONI3aTqgyw3OJXeeFztGDUeiuWSxOX4y7Xh0Ad9iFMaeanrpq-U/s400/L-Paramount-assets.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Logo of Plainfield's largest commercial property owner.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Under Gov. Murphy's
strict shelter-in-place rules, many of Plainfield's small businesses
are shuttered, their employees laid off, their livelihoods cut off.<br />
<br />
While elaborate care was taken by the Governor to deal with homeowners' mortgages and renters' issues (see <a href="https://www.nj.com/coronavirus/2020/03/nj-to-give-homeowners-mortgage-relief-during-coronavirus-outbreak-murphy-says.html"><i><u>here</u></i></a>), small business got 'a lick and a promise'.<br />
<br />
One restaurant owner confided to a customer who came to pick up a
take-out order that their business was down 50% -- and that if it stayed
there they could survive, but if it fell they would be out of business.<br />
<br />
Then we have Plainfield's largest commercial property owner and manager -- Paramount Assets.<br />
<br />
A number of years ago as it became noticeable Paramount was buying up a
lot of downtown, I asked a Mapp administration official if they thought
it was a good thing to have so much of our commercial property in the
control of one company. All I got was a shrug.<br />
<br />
When the owner of a popular downtown business approached Paramount
recently about forbearance on the rent, they were told "get a lawyer."<br />
<br />
Downtown could be in for big trouble if that is the attitude and there
are very many businesses who find making the rent difficult -- or
impossible.<br />
<br />
Suddenly, all those smiling ribbon cuttings look hollow if there is no help for merchants.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-64405299039519005362020-04-06T19:45:00.003-04:002020-04-06T19:45:43.116-04:00This will be Dan's wild & crazy week at dialysis<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTHw-OV2R2TBV6IuI7s5QtywPt7utDBjtnIK6NsePJbox-yulBNE59ovcko_SM5blJ3F-jm9G7E5sR2Ke-87N6U8GFiNsXKYm7XJ2M16Jb53uo4ZGK2-GkdVbXOrgTCx9yStx_CPmmRQ/s1600/Coronavirus-swab-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="768" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTHw-OV2R2TBV6IuI7s5QtywPt7utDBjtnIK6NsePJbox-yulBNE59ovcko_SM5blJ3F-jm9G7E5sR2Ke-87N6U8GFiNsXKYm7XJ2M16Jb53uo4ZGK2-GkdVbXOrgTCx9yStx_CPmmRQ/s640/Coronavirus-swab-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />A coronavirus swab test.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />So last Friday at
the end of my session, the charge nurse came over and rather nervously
informed me that I must go immediately that evening and find someplace
to get a test for the coronavirus.<br />
<br />
Further that next week (this week) I was not to report to the Plainfield center for dialysis but would be advised what to do.<br />
<br />
Why all this? It turns out that an x-ray I had on Thursday revealed a
small amount of fluid in my lungs. That, plus a persistent dry cough I
have had since mid-November (well before the coronavirus) set off the
protocol.<br /><br />These are two of the three warning signs. The third, a fever, did not appear. I am a low average body temp person -- usually clocking in around </span></span></span><span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">97.7° Fahrenheit.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"> </span></span>
<br />
I will be treated at another center designated by DaVita to handle
questionable cases in isolation from the general dialysis population.<br />
<br />
Once my test results come back (7 to 10 days), I will return to the Plainfield center if I'm not infected with the coronavirus.<br />
<br />
I joked with the Plainfield center's director that if I <u>were</u> infected, I would probably already be dead since I am one of those "high risk" individuals of which they speak.<br />
<br />
Given all the talk in the media about how comparatively little testing
is being done, I was surprised when the Medemerge in Green Brook told me
they did the swab testing on a walk-in basis.<br />
<br />
"Walk-in" was something of a misnomer as they were conducting business
outdoors under triage tents . An intake person took my ID papers plus a
description of my vehicle and I was told to go wait in the vehicle.<br />
<br />
In a few minutes, a tech came to the car, returned my ID stuff, and told
me to follow them to an outdoor location where another tech would take
the swab. After that I was told I could leave and that the results would
be available in 7 to 10 days.<br />
<br />
The large parking lot was full of maybe 60-70 vehicles, many of whom were getting the same test.<br />
<br />
So my treatment schedule this week shifts to Tuesday, Thursday and
Saturday. I will try to post on my regular schedule but I hope you will
understand if I'm just too pooped.</span></span></span><br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-80407697458415471002020-04-05T22:25:00.004-04:002020-04-06T19:26:56.582-04:00"No wipes in the pipes" -- why disinfecting wipes should not be flushed<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-_9yeDSRqdNwx5-5X3-LBzyU2Q5sU3WiC-PViCexS27cLeuqNJQBebPF0QqBTKqwZaw3qeLoQ8MofJS6B5Kj-rsKWy8l0DhIZDPh9rGKOyE1ISwRFPPeDC03zgVmdE8U7Lc0XPUSl70/s1600/Wipes-Disinfecting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="768" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-_9yeDSRqdNwx5-5X3-LBzyU2Q5sU3WiC-PViCexS27cLeuqNJQBebPF0QqBTKqwZaw3qeLoQ8MofJS6B5Kj-rsKWy8l0DhIZDPh9rGKOyE1ISwRFPPeDC03zgVmdE8U7Lc0XPUSl70/s640/Wipes-Disinfecting.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Disinfecting wipes are wreaking havoc on sewer systems.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />In addition to the threat to lives and damage to the economy, the coronavirus brings another unhappy circumstance.<br />
<br />
The explosive use of sanitary wipes to disinfect surfaces has led to
problems in the nation's sewer systems when those wipes are flushed down
toilets. See an informative article <a href="https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/coronavirus-toilet-paper-disposable-wipe-sewer-blockage-cities/575248/"><i><u>here</u></i></a>.<br />
<br />
Bottom line: Sanitary wipes should be thrown in the trash and not
flushed. They are not designed to disintegrate and are causing expensive
problems.<br />
<br />
In the trash!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-74500933502426089132020-04-04T21:23:00.001-04:002020-04-04T21:23:15.382-04:00Without fanfare, new Pemberton Avenue bridge opens<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQ1eCrZ_-_SJbfhZvErnX7KWPFxjVQo4raajwlvjytzFl-KVB_BswhRm7ECHALYJLiOp47etmEEALbKD_G_urxQ3LhkO_dRu_JrnQC4-Qt0L1wVQnThGOMSQRrEEz_AsxMd7fW0Y-prg/s1600/Pemberton-Ave-bridge-long.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="768" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQ1eCrZ_-_SJbfhZvErnX7KWPFxjVQo4raajwlvjytzFl-KVB_BswhRm7ECHALYJLiOp47etmEEALbKD_G_urxQ3LhkO_dRu_JrnQC4-Qt0L1wVQnThGOMSQRrEEz_AsxMd7fW0Y-prg/s640/Pemberton-Ave-bridge-long.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Handsome is as handsome does: the approach to<br />the new bridge.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4H4y8XQoWNTZLNjBybmctFwPPOjmqguuYKyYvpmJrDgD17zSN-bvCsx4uTUE2UXErC7DSa5g0sm2AgHD1I-8nOC7f1qDp7syoyPcE29_QKV1QOLgzBAj32rc2NGDnXH3OT3lxLmaiE0/s1600/Pemberton-Ave-bridge-side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="768" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4H4y8XQoWNTZLNjBybmctFwPPOjmqguuYKyYvpmJrDgD17zSN-bvCsx4uTUE2UXErC7DSa5g0sm2AgHD1I-8nOC7f1qDp7syoyPcE29_QKV1QOLgzBAj32rc2NGDnXH3OT3lxLmaiE0/s640/Pemberton-Ave-bridge-side.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />A closer view.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtswljQG6Sn4hBhN_g0a3Cag0DTPfLBMSAKGtoavXAY1TR92T8bTl88VwR4RVafFwBL3pPFYv1DgjV1HmftgEoJne3yIZezlKlN8_du7h4S7Mmp9elvTT4LRUbYbK_P_Oi3hhC6Z604U/s1600/Pemberton-Ave-bridge-plaque.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="576" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtswljQG6Sn4hBhN_g0a3Cag0DTPfLBMSAKGtoavXAY1TR92T8bTl88VwR4RVafFwBL3pPFYv1DgjV1HmftgEoJne3yIZezlKlN8_du7h4S7Mmp9elvTT4LRUbYbK_P_Oi3hhC6Z604U/s640/Pemberton-Ave-bridge-plaque.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />And, of course, credit must be given.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><br />
</span></span>
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The rebuilt --or
should I say "new" -- bridge over the Cedar Brook in Cedar Brook Park
was unceremoniously opened to traffic on Friday, April 3.<br />
<br />
When I came through on Thursday afternoon late for a medical appointment, the barricade at Park Avenue was still up.<br />
<br />
When I came through from the pharmacy on Friday evening, the barricades were gone. I confirmed the bridge's opening on Saturday.<br />
<br />
I would be a misnomer to refer what happened here as a "rebuilding".
This is a new bridge -- or may I say BRIDGE -- replacing the formerly
almost unnoticeable passage over the stream's culvert.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></span></span><br />
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></span></span><br />
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrzqmdZk1He_xkNIMNBCf8pLgakNdYV1Zm3j5rRb1MNEW1dUNgBTlDgJVDv44L9r7cqTNGfvFfUHN1WOvdOVDRMZVI2OvZiBdb7mXA9l39xkyxsvI5btrsoOlp2twglYd4lObkC_0yQ0/s1600/CedarBrook-Bridge-project-200114.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="960" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrzqmdZk1He_xkNIMNBCf8pLgakNdYV1Zm3j5rRb1MNEW1dUNgBTlDgJVDv44L9r7cqTNGfvFfUHN1WOvdOVDRMZVI2OvZiBdb7mXA9l39xkyxsvI5btrsoOlp2twglYd4lObkC_0yQ0/s640/CedarBrook-Bridge-project-200114.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />The bridge that was replaced was so inconsequential<br />it can't even be seen amidst the construction gear.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i></i> </span></span></span></div>
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
The splendid new white concrete bridge carries the appropriate memorialization of officials on each wall.<br />
<br />
The Union County engineers outdid themselves on this one.</span></span></span><br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-57542120532815740372020-04-02T10:52:00.003-04:002020-04-02T11:10:26.158-04:00Pandemic can't keep down Plainfield's annual Easter Egg Hunt<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTAw-DRg-PVetKsI28OGnN-vP4hxsZ-D26fcB_jismFTNXdtyGBocX7Vhan0d037UAwDnyV0T6s5rmJKvTRyax7fggZD5Oax5zPkN9bUzcPUC_f8CwEnrvi2BTgRclc-0L-80KZ9NG2c/s1600/Rec-EasterEgg-Kit-2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTAw-DRg-PVetKsI28OGnN-vP4hxsZ-D26fcB_jismFTNXdtyGBocX7Vhan0d037UAwDnyV0T6s5rmJKvTRyax7fggZD5Oax5zPkN9bUzcPUC_f8CwEnrvi2BTgRclc-0L-80KZ9NG2c/s640/Rec-EasterEgg-Kit-2020.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Kids can have their own Easter Egg hunts at home<br />with kits supplied by Plainfield Parks & Recreation.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Plainfield Parks & Recreation's annual Easter Egg Hunt is one of its most eagerly anticipated events.<br />
<br />
Each year, upwards of two hundred children show up for the event at Cedar Brook Park.<br />
<br />
But what to do when there is a pandemic?<br />
<br />
All public events -- including the Easter Egg Hunt -- have been
cancelled out of an abundance of caution for resident health and safety.<br />
<br />
But that didn't stop the creative crew at P&R. Superintendent Roni
Taylor asked herself whether there wasn't a way to bring the event to
the kids, since the kids couldn't come to the event.<br />
<br />
Voilà!<br />
<br />
Take Home Easter Egg Hunt kits. Taylor and her staff packed two hundred
bags with 2,000 candy-filled eggs and 200 chocolate bunnies for a
do-it-yourself Easter Egg Hunt at home.<br />
<br />
Given the health concerns, staff sanitized each plastic egg and wore gloves while stuffing the eggs with candy.<br />
<br />
Through a partnership with the Plainfield Public Schools, the bags are
being distributed to youngsters in the District's regular lunchtime meal
distributions by Maschio Food Services this Thursday and Friday.<br />
<br />Here's to a Happy Easter for all, and a Thank You to Recreation and Maschio for making it happen!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-88038007732145428232020-04-01T04:29:00.002-04:002020-04-01T04:35:41.541-04:00Will rent and mortgage relief be a concern at Mayor's Facebook Live event tonight? <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjhnd2F5Cbqg8KmpelMkGMDsH7M4Y3NjCdHO0jcMML3qgFZsw1UilOEklqRp7GGaPU0pmSWi6BpNyyOlqxPOtjQEsjWGFgLRY2w4H5B_E3PEy6L34Iau7SVqp_Yq3icFrymmeEQkqNvg/s1600/Bills-mail-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="768" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjhnd2F5Cbqg8KmpelMkGMDsH7M4Y3NjCdHO0jcMML3qgFZsw1UilOEklqRp7GGaPU0pmSWi6BpNyyOlqxPOtjQEsjWGFgLRY2w4H5B_E3PEy6L34Iau7SVqp_Yq3icFrymmeEQkqNvg/s640/Bills-mail-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Rent, mortgages, credit card bills will be<br />on people's minds tonight.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><span style="font-size: x-large;">
It's the first of the month and folks in Plainfield like everywhere else are getting out their checkbooks.<br />
<br />
It's time to pay bills. Rent. Mortgage. Credit Card. Auto loan.<br /><br />Mayor
Mapp will likely be peppered with questions from worried homeowners,
anxious renters, and nervous consumers at tonight's Facebook Live event he is hosting.<br />
<br />
Between last month and this, many Plainfielders have found themselves
out of work -- laid off or furloughed -- and many will have trouble
paying all the bills this month. And for the foreseeable future as long
as the coronavirus pandemic has the US economy basically shut down.<br />
<br />
While Mayor Mapp has been very good about keeping residents up-to-date
on COVID-19 cases, and the state's shelter-in-place regulations, these other questions will be much on Plainfielders'
minds tonight.<br />
<br />
Gov. Murphy has taken steps to help.<br />
<br />
Toward the end of last week, Murphy negotiated a 90-day grace period for
mortgage payments with 40 banks and financial institutions. The banks
promised not to start any new foreclosure proceedings for at least 60
days.<br />
<br />
According to terms of the agreement, credit scores will not be impacted,
there will be no late penalties, and it is expected that banks will add
the missed payments to the end of the loan instead of requiring one big
catch-up payment.<br />
<br />
However, mortgagees will have to contact their lenders on their own and
will have to show that their difficulties are coronavirus-related.<br />
<br />
The situation with renters is a little different. Murphy has issued an
executive order forbidding landlords to evict tenants for 90 days.
Though he says it will stick, I suspect this will be harder to enforce.
Once again, the first thing for tenants to do is get in touch with their
landlords.<br />
<br />
As for credit cards, he is asking card companies to reduce interest rates (fat chance of that!) and waive late fees.<br />
<br />
Small businesses -- like the hundreds in Plainfield's Special
Improvement District -- have also been impacted by the shelter-at-home
decree.<br />
<br />
Many stores and other small businesses have been forced to close. Many restaurants are having a
tough time getting by on take-out orders. These businesses also have
rents coming due. And their landlords may also have mortgages of their
own to pay on their commercial properties.<br />
<br />
Everyone is hurting and everyone is looking for help. Though the
stimulus package passed by Congress last week will bring resources to
bear on the problems, there will be a natural delay in getting programs
up and running and then businesses will face the usual paperwork before
finally getting aid -- whether loans or grants. In the meantime, some
will succumb.<br />
<br />
Mayor Mapp's Facebook Live event is 6:00 PM today (April 1). Go to the city's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cityofplainfieldnj"><i><u>Facebook page here</u></i></a>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-63766185838628139572020-03-29T22:26:00.001-04:002020-03-29T22:26:07.243-04:00Johns Hopkins' tips on dealing with coronavirus<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjHwSjl1CO8k36WfeEgFTyg8hhvSr0-NUy-8riR9gf1PXmBWbR6pznb3WPKn79avxD5uDJaI_SuxBU6LHBwjzxDfKhO0Luve17jiEs-vFkoOEOyZJZkHXd0OLIaYnYwi7ktZCI-M80CY/s1600/Coronavirus-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjHwSjl1CO8k36WfeEgFTyg8hhvSr0-NUy-8riR9gf1PXmBWbR6pznb3WPKn79avxD5uDJaI_SuxBU6LHBwjzxDfKhO0Luve17jiEs-vFkoOEOyZJZkHXd0OLIaYnYwi7ktZCI-M80CY/s640/Coronavirus-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />A representation of the coronavirus.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">
A tip o' the hat to retired Muhlenberg Hospital physician Ted Turner,
MD, for forwarding this useful information sheet from Johns Hopkins
University.<br />
</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">The virus is not a living
organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of
lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or
buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code. (mutation) and convert them
into aggressor and multiplier cells.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Since the virus is not a
living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on
its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity
and type of material where it lies.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* The virus is very
fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat.
That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam
CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much: for 20 seconds or
more, to make a lot of foam). By dissolving the fat layer, the protein
molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* HEAT melts fat; this is
why it is so good to use water above 25 degrees Celsius for washing
hands, clothes and everything. In addition, hot water makes more foam
and that makes it even more useful.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaks it down from the inside.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Oxygenated water helps
long after soap, alcohol and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the
virus protein, but you have to use it pure and it can irritate your skin
in the pure form.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* NO BACTERICIDE SERVES. The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; antibiotics cannot kill what is not a bacteria.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Although debates are
present it is best not to shake used clothing, sheets or cloth exposed
to the virus . While the virus is glued to a porous surface, it is very
inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours (fabric and porous), 4
hours (copper, because it is naturally antiseptic; and wood, be<br />
cause it removes all the moisture and does not let it peel off and
disintegrates); 24 hours (cardboard), 42 hours (metal) and 72 hours
(plastic). But if you shake it or use a feather duster, the virus
molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours, and can lodge in your
nose.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* The virus molecules
remain very stable in external cold, or air conditioners in houses and
cars. They also need moisture to stay stable, and especially darkness.
Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade
it faster.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* UV LIGHT on any object
that may contain it breaks down the virus protein. For example, to
disinfect and reuse a mask sun is perfect. Be careful, sun also breaks
down collagen (which is protein) in the skin, eventually causing
wrinkles and skin cancer.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* The virus CANNOT go through healthy skin.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Vinegar is NOT useful because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* NO SPIRITS, ie VODKA, serve. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65%.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* The more confined the
space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open
or naturally ventilated, the less.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* you have to wash your
hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches,
remote control, cell phone, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And
when using the bathroom.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* You have to Moisturize
HANDS from so much washing of them, because the molecules can hide in
the micro cracks. The thicker the moisturizer, the better. Coconut
butter and oil is perfect.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">* Also keep your NAILS SHORT so that the virus does not hide there.</span><br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-90271784052586570032020-03-29T01:17:00.005-04:002020-03-29T01:17:33.652-04:00Coronavirus leads to innovations in Plainfield politics<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKTe1RsjOj_NSDxJNXg7aRJYTaC4oJdnWpVhU9qVq6OhF6hBFylWxT4HnLCzZ1kdkmHjOQhkMP2vfiBZx2kP9rljCidnoq7YFGxo6JV8CHEr4lnqTJPoHJfnX_C7P8S6WdeHev1MK7us/s1600/L-Zoom-2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="768" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguKTe1RsjOj_NSDxJNXg7aRJYTaC4oJdnWpVhU9qVq6OhF6hBFylWxT4HnLCzZ1kdkmHjOQhkMP2vfiBZx2kP9rljCidnoq7YFGxo6JV8CHEr4lnqTJPoHJfnX_C7P8S6WdeHev1MK7us/s640/L-Zoom-2020.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Plainfield Progressive Democrats will hold a virtual<br />Town Hall on March 31 using ZOOM.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">As Plainfield enters the
2020 Primary political season, the coronavirus pandemic is bringing with
it changes in the way politics are being done.<br />
<br />
Under New Jersey's stay-at-home and social distance rules, campaign
events, in-person fundraisers, and door-to-door canvassing are out.<br />
<br />
As of the moment, candidates are in the signature gathering phase for
their petitions. Candidates must meet signature requirements to be on
the ballot in June.<br />
<br />
At least one candidate is gathering signatures online. Robert Graham,
the PDCC's First Ward leader, has announced his run for the citywide
at-large seat. He is gathering signatures via online service <a href="https://go.docusign.com/trial/productshot/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6_vzBRCIARIsAOs54z7Cd9gJU_w1QGY0Vv8_umsuo0qeJGHmjTtVodPNO_yAhflBkuVNYhIaAqBpEALw_wcB&utm_content=domestic_US&utm_source=google&utm_term=docusign&utm_campaign=branded_primary&elqCampaignId=4481&utm_medium=cpc&rflag=1"><i><u>DocuSign</u></i></a> -- a first as far as I know.<br />
<br />
Graham will be running against Steve Hockaday, currently Ward 4
councilor, who has the party line for citywide at-large. Hockaday is
running with Ward 3 incumbent Charles McRae, who seeks reelection.<br />
<br />
In addition, the Plainfield Progressive Democratic candidates are holding a virtual Town Hall on March 31, at 7:00 PM.<br />
<br />
The Plainfield Progressive Democratic candidates are David Rutherford for citywide at-large and Emily Morgan for Ward 3.<br />
<br />
The Town Hall is being held on the <a href="https://zoom.us/"><i><u>Zoom</u></i></a> platform, and will have a 100-person limit.<br />
<br />
Interested parties may register here --<br />
<br />
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_y4buPwGPQfm6oap2hzY6yw<br />
<br />
Those who register will receive a confirmation email with login information for the event.<br />
<br />Gov. Murphy is considering whether to make the June Primary a vote-by-mail only election. More on that later.</span><br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-16230749452820781802020-03-24T02:43:00.001-04:002020-03-24T02:43:29.130-04:00Plainfield Business Administrator Wayne Clarke is gone<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qi3z405iy9y5_8gM4xXq5Ppeq9ODm0wEyv90fVIJ7BC9C4azC3DH7_08wrdRRfiRjfT9MJIVVCVZoim3D3XE0t6xCGLntMCkrfIk64-RA6rJp39bO2JgOqNYmQjCrx3r5Da6fKTJqII/s1600/People-Clarke-Wayne-AOM-Aug2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="576" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qi3z405iy9y5_8gM4xXq5Ppeq9ODm0wEyv90fVIJ7BC9C4azC3DH7_08wrdRRfiRjfT9MJIVVCVZoim3D3XE0t6xCGLntMCkrfIk64-RA6rJp39bO2JgOqNYmQjCrx3r5Da6fKTJqII/s640/People-Clarke-Wayne-AOM-Aug2019.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Mayor Adrian O. Mapp congratulates Wayne Clarke on his<br />appointment as Business Administrator, August 2019.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">For the third time in three years, Plainfield is without a Business Administrator.<br />
<br />
BA Wayne Clarke is no longer with the City as of Monday morning (March
23). There are conflicting stories over whether Clarke was fired
outright or offered a chance to resign.<br />
<br />
The move comes as Plainfield and the nation face an unprecedented public health crisis with the Coronavirus pandemic.<br />
<br />
Mayor Mapp announced on Monday that Plainfield now has ten people
diagnosed with the Covid-19 virus. That number is expected to rise
dramatically as New Jersey heads into the surge phase of the pandemic.<br />
<br />
Recruited by Mayor Adrian O. Mapp after the sudden departure of City
Administrator Carlos Sanchez in July 2019, Clarke was appointed at the
City Council meeting of the following month.<br />
<br />
A Certified Public Accountant who had a career with Prudential, some
eyebrows were raised at his appointment as Clarke had never worked in
government before.<br />
<br />
After a bumpy start where Clarke is said to have remarked at a staff
meeting, by way of introducing himself, "I'm here to straighten things
out," he seemed to have settled in to the job and the endless meetings
it entailed.<br />
<br />
With a tenure of just over eight months, Clarke was Mapp's shortest-serving administrator. (The Business Administrator position was created
with the charter revision and replaces the former City Administrator.)<br />
<br />
I am told that Clarke was on vacation at the time he was let go --
unusual for an employee in their first year, and an almost unthinkable
circumstance given the dire crisis the City and the nation are facing.<br />
<br />
Municipal Clerk "AJay" Jalloh is serving as the Acting Business Administrator.<br /><br />Mayor Mapp's mettle is going to be sorely tested trying to find a qualified replacement in times like these.</span><br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-11007500414260594212020-03-22T03:33:00.001-04:002020-03-22T03:54:53.124-04:00Muhlenberg may be reopened to accommodate Coronavirus patients<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDkhHQDn7r_3XwKG4YIZI_UP0z-Yizjd4LJzDb7QWpkXBLPAXUXaEu4d3YESfCzUIz_6wqYE32ezbdhEIRzWDdig850j3JPN2VbS3s-tMlymUqJ_JubW6JkHy4sYU2dzJGczXqPxD1d8/s1600/MRMC-Demolition-181214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="768" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDkhHQDn7r_3XwKG4YIZI_UP0z-Yizjd4LJzDb7QWpkXBLPAXUXaEu4d3YESfCzUIz_6wqYE32ezbdhEIRzWDdig850j3JPN2VbS3s-tMlymUqJ_JubW6JkHy4sYU2dzJGczXqPxD1d8/s640/MRMC-Demolition-181214.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Demolition at the former Muhlenberg Hospital in<br />preparation for conversion to apartments<br />began in December 2018.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwf_3WsKj8TYOcs7gp5AgRx6Mz5Ak75D2w4B120GAtjo5RTtEFH2Gbdzp7aJjIFaW71tfy7hdo1lgyJHipK3CwADD0rVdcgxII4suOwXhkGc5dF365CKBRXsS_-6vRCfBjhFmc_2QQ70/s1600/coronavirus-nj-daily-cases-high-aoc-dist-200320.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="215" data-original-width="297" height="463" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfwf_3WsKj8TYOcs7gp5AgRx6Mz5Ak75D2w4B120GAtjo5RTtEFH2Gbdzp7aJjIFaW71tfy7hdo1lgyJHipK3CwADD0rVdcgxII4suOwXhkGc5dF365CKBRXsS_-6vRCfBjhFmc_2QQ70/s640/coronavirus-nj-daily-cases-high-aoc-dist-200320.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Projected number of daily cases under<br />current Social Distance conditions.<br />Chart appeared in nj.com.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
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</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">Twelve years after closing
it down, the State of New Jersey is looking at the possibility of reopening Muhlenberg
Hospital to accommodate Coronavirus patients.<br />
<br />
Judith Persichilli, the NJ Commissioner of Health, said on Friday that an
unnamed hospital in Plainfield was being considered for reopening to
meet an expected crisis in hospital facilities as the Coronavirus
pandemic crests in New Jersey.<br /><br />As long and hard as residents of Plainfield struggled against the closure, the irony of the current situation is not lost on anyone. It's a shame that Dottie Gutenkauf did not live to see this day.<br />
<br />
Persichili and a delegation from the Army Corps of Engineers were supposed to tour the facility on Saturday.<br />
<br />
The former Muhlenberg Hospital site has been under development for more than a year now as part of a deal to
bring 120 apartments to the former hospital buildings and a medical arts
center to the Park Avenue side of the campus.<br />
<br />
According to Persichilli's statement, the building has been gutted in
preparation for conversion to apartments. She estimated it could be
converted to a 200-bed hospital in 4-6 weeks (this sounds optimistic to
me).<br />
<br />
Under the current level of social distance in effect, the projection of
active daily cases would be expected to peak at over 150,000 about the
beginning of June. This would far outstrip the ability of hospitals to
accommodate these patients.<br />
<br />
Mayor Adrian O. Mapp has videotaped comments on the possibility of Muhlenberg reopening -- view his video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHrkA0uJi4E"><i><u>here</u></i></a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-34433967016744788162020-03-11T02:41:00.001-04:002020-03-11T03:20:23.479-04:00Joe goes!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6CG-cfpZ6rwu2Y0TNF1mqB3ygIua6K4PbsXRKpHJgB08b3viNUgv27AB842onTqHCj70kBD92iZeKRtVLKYTGw6gDR6wnf_KkJAZcohWBIOIUm_WuMdviYLTeIOSc795In_nk5qTuo4/s1600/People-Biden--02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1017" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6CG-cfpZ6rwu2Y0TNF1mqB3ygIua6K4PbsXRKpHJgB08b3viNUgv27AB842onTqHCj70kBD92iZeKRtVLKYTGw6gDR6wnf_KkJAZcohWBIOIUm_WuMdviYLTeIOSc795In_nk5qTuo4/s640/People-Biden--02.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Joe Biden, whose campaign was moribund<br />three weeks ago, now leads in delegate counts.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">Joe Biden had an outstanding night in the Super Tuesday II Democratic primaries.<br />
<br />
Minutes after the Missouri and Mississippi polls closed, the contests were called by AP for Biden.<br />
<br />
This was followed not long after by Michigan. Idaho came in much later -- for Biden.<br />
<br />
North Dakota and Washington State will not be called tonight. North
Dakota has mixed caucus and primary voting. Washington State is all
mail-in ballots. These are the only two that may break for Sanders.<br />
<br />
The delegate counts won't be known until the polls are 100% reported,
but Biden has taken on a lead that may be impossible for Sanders to
catch up to.<br /><br />Reporters covering the exit polls were finding that Sanders' youth base failed to materialize in large numbers for him and that he had failed to grow his coalition -- both keys to a path forward for him.<br />
<br />
I can understand if Bernie wants to hang on through the next debate and the next couple of
primaries, but if they don't go his way, he needs to consider bowing out
graciously.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-89039722518979647322020-03-09T01:27:00.004-04:002020-03-09T01:27:45.978-04:00Plainfield schools prepare for Coronavirus -- and possible shutdown<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImpb-Q-U9rnR63MPyqIhxZeEijgvdmH-tFvo5ZD2t4_THf_k57gVOzWhqRJ_4jGB_tCOKQv1dv8FLJNdwgxtx3SMOZsust9sbsVNvDfoBglTuiwqQ70wvAoL8Z7rAhKPXaBQVdOqUacU/s1600/Coronavirus-test-kit-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="760" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImpb-Q-U9rnR63MPyqIhxZeEijgvdmH-tFvo5ZD2t4_THf_k57gVOzWhqRJ_4jGB_tCOKQv1dv8FLJNdwgxtx3SMOZsust9sbsVNvDfoBglTuiwqQ70wvAoL8Z7rAhKPXaBQVdOqUacU/s640/Coronavirus-test-kit-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />The CDC test kits are in short supply as the Trump<br />administration tries to get its act together.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">While
in the chair at the barber's on Saturday afternoon, a Latino man and
his two young sons took seats and waited for me to be finished.<br />
<br />
The man and my barber, Oscar, chatted in Spanish while the boys were
squirmy. But soon I heard the older boy -- he looked to be maybe 5th
grade, 6th at most -- telling his father about the coronavirus and that
the schools were getting prepared for its arrival.<br />
<br />
He recited in detail all the cleanliness tips that are becoming
ubiquitous -- don't touch your face, wash hands for 20 seconds, cough or
sneeze into your elbow, and use hand sanitizer. Pretty amazing, I
thought. Clearly he had been paying close attention. His delivery was
matter-of-fact and he did not seem to be upset, just reciting a new
regimen that we all must follow.<br />
<br />
Then he told of the school's preparation for lessons to be continued at
home, so that no days will be lost. He knew that the state required 180
days of instruction for the school year.<br />
<br />
His little talk paralleled closely the letter released by Schools
Superintendent Dr. Diana Mitchell this past Tuesday (March 3) and posted
on the District's website <a href="http://www.plainfieldnjk12.org/news/what_s_new/coronavirus_information"><i><u>here</u></i></a>.<br />
<br />
I thought this all remarkable and if his fellow classmates are taking
the crisis as seriously as this young man, we will be in good shape when
the time comes.<br />
<br />
The media were full over the weekend with updates on the (growing)
numbers of cases in New Jersey, plus efforts by the State Education and
Health Departments to mobilize schools statewide for possibly having to
shut down if things get critical (see more <a href="https://www.nj.com/coronavirus/2020/03/nj-approves-remote-school-days-if-coronavirus-forces-closures.html"><i><u>here</u></i></a>).<br />
<br />
The call lies with the local Health Officer, Dr. Atif Nazir, and/or the state agencies.<br />
<br />
Presumably, if we reach the point where the schools are closed, there will be other constraints on Plainfield residents --</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">canceling of sporting events and other large public gatherings;<br />
<br />
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">voluntary quarantining of those who have been exposed to the virus, and<br />
<br />
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">possible restrictions on the mobility of residents.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Then there is the matter of disruption to workplaces by the kids being home and someone having to care for them.<br />
<br />
This all could have a serious impact on economies from local to national.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span></span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span></span></span><big><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><big><big><small><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span></span></span></small></big></big></span></big>
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-9271596421998906532020-03-02T02:24:00.001-05:002020-03-02T02:24:04.180-05:00PILOTs, people power plentiful Plainfield Council agenda meeting Monday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTzp-vmEVQ9I8Cf35eDKPExYJheNcf6AxDYMH24x8gdIYKI1W7Bo20C7J3PWzhe5Uve-iG9q6LBXWH_n29Rl1S7zU40ndZ7n-23FGeGTCT0uw3SSg7G6QGru5GgSVQwhv82ScA_a-iG8/s1600/Map-Gateway-Park-ave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="624" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTzp-vmEVQ9I8Cf35eDKPExYJheNcf6AxDYMH24x8gdIYKI1W7Bo20C7J3PWzhe5Uve-iG9q6LBXWH_n29Rl1S7zU40ndZ7n-23FGeGTCT0uw3SSg7G6QGru5GgSVQwhv82ScA_a-iG8/s640/Map-Gateway-Park-ave.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Gateway project at Park Avenue and Randolph Road<br />calls for a standalone drug store with drive-thru window.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;">Plainfield City Council has an extraordinarily full docket for its agenda setting session Monday (March 2).<br />
<br />
<u><b>PILOTs</b></u><br />
<br />
Ordinance MC 2020-06 enshrines a PILOT for the residential project at
926-1019 North Avenue, immediately next to the Netherwood Station.<br />
<br />
The Gateway project in the 1200-block of Park Avenue is up for a
redevelopment agreement with 1204 Park Avenue Associates, LLC. The
proposal is to subdivide the block -- currently a genormous parking lot
-- into two lots, with a standalone drugstore with drive-thru lanes on
one parcel and continue parking on the other (the lost serves for
parking for at least a hundred students of JFK's Snyder School of
Nursing. Though no PILOT is mentioned, expect one to be sought when the
time comes.<br />
<br />
Netherwood Village (825-855 East Front Street) is up for a PILOT. The
owners plan to remodel the baths and kitchens and do exterior work to
refresh the 75-year-old apartment complex. This project reminds us that
once a PILOT is granted, it is likely to be in existence many years
beyond the initial 30 granted as new owners take over, with new
mortgages and plans to renovate. In fact, the city keeps a list of
PILOTs, there are so many.<br />
<br />
Lastly, a PILOT is being granted with Ordinance MC 2020-11 to Todd West
Urban Renewal, LLC, for projects on the block bounded by Central
Avenue/West Front/Madison Avenue/West 2nd Street. Plans include an
11-story building with a rooftop restaurant, a catering hall and retail
space.<br />
<br />
PILOTs have long been considered an essential tool in the economic
development toolkit, but it is worth noting that Jersey City has decided
to stop granting PILOTs going forward.<br />
<br />
<u><b>PEOPLE</b></u><br />
<br />
City Council will be busy with matters concerning the appointment of people.<br />
<br />
The Citizens Budget Advisory Committee is on tap. Each Councilor selects
one member. The group shadows the budget process, making
recommendations to the Council on improvements to both the budget
process and the budget itself. Some are actually adopted.<br />
<br />
Maher Janajri, owner of Queen City Coffee Roasters is being appointed to the SID's District Management Corporation.<br />
<br />
Leslie Uslan is up for the Shade Tree Commission and Vicky Brown is being reappointed to the Alcohol Beverage Control Board.<br />
<br />
Over at Municipal Court, Nidara Rourk is being appointed public
defender. Ms. Rourk has an amazing resumé. She will certainly add to the
city's legal staff.<br />
<br />
A residency waiver is up for Brittany Claybrooks -- who also has an impressive resum</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">é -- in the Economic Development Department, where she will be an Economic Development Representative.<br />
<br /><u><b>
ODDS AND ENDS</b></u><br />
<br />
The Council will be considering two contracts for grant writing,
totaling $100,000. The larger of the contracts comes with a
professional, detailed account of the work done and grants booked. The
other one not so much.<br />
<br />
The Finance Department is stashing $200,00 away in an Accumulated
Absences Trust. This will help guarantee the City has fewer rude
surprises when employees retire with large payments due for unused sick
and vacation time.<br />
<br />
The City will be bonding $408,500 for the purchase of radios for the Fire Department.<br />
<br />
And to top it all off, the Council has ten resolutions honoring various
groups and individuals -- including one to Dr. Harold Yood, who recently
celebrated his 100th birthday.<br />
<br />
City Council meets in an agenda-setting session at 7:00 PM in the
Council Chambers / Courthouse at Watchung Avenue and East 4th Street.
Parking available on the street and in the lot across from Police
Headquarters.</span></span><br />
<br />
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Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-76880928877953097372020-02-28T00:10:00.000-05:002020-03-01T21:25:54.769-05:00Plainfield officials make InsiderNJ's African American Power List<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtd4SRCZgkka2QG_HW_drk2TQaLYZCVc9-lF9jN7y-SH_qP16qKXlqX2E-OaG8OQyq5GSvZhFA2y_gBGhu5GS8gpIuC_dUQuwkjQ03WwCzmdvOqniEnTn8yrbUL_vNfbhd0uh-zjl_LvI/s1600/RVCC-Paul-Robeson-room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtd4SRCZgkka2QG_HW_drk2TQaLYZCVc9-lF9jN7y-SH_qP16qKXlqX2E-OaG8OQyq5GSvZhFA2y_gBGhu5GS8gpIuC_dUQuwkjQ03WwCzmdvOqniEnTn8yrbUL_vNfbhd0uh-zjl_LvI/s640/RVCC-Paul-Robeson-room.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Mural of Paul Robeson in the Robeson Room at<br />Raritan Valley Community College. (Image by Max Pizarro)</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: yellow;">UPDATED</span>. Congratulations to the Plainfield elected officials who were in included in InsiderNJ's 2020 African American Power List.<br />
<br />
Assemblywoman Linda Carter (29), Mayor Adrian O. Mapp (#34) and Freeholder Rebecca Williams (#61) are in the main list, as well as North Plainfield council member Keiona Miller (98).<br />
<br />
Included in the 'Honorable Mention' list are: <span style="background-color: yellow;">Elton Armady</span>, Steve Hockaday, Barry
Goode, Ashley Davis, Charles McRae, Joylette Mills-Ransome, and former
mayor Sharon Robinson-Briggs.<br />
<br />
Want to see the full list? Check it out <a href="https://www.insidernj.com/insidernjs-2020-african-american-power-list-honor-black-history-month/"><i><u>here</u></i></a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1909246571366789334.post-81850111514293552102020-02-25T14:05:00.003-05:002020-02-26T02:03:24.000-05:00Bernie wins big at Union Twp. Dems straw ballot <div align="center">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Candidate surrogates were (l. to r.): Sen. Dick Codey, Larry Hamm, Sue Altman,</i></span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Joe Signorello</i></span></span>, Mike Muller, and Andrew Cohen. Moderator<br />Nadège Ricketts and host Sen. Joe Cryan are at far right.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH81sMwUl996QtlBIF5WeE_hvNuIvRmKhoFous4a9xuJktuQCs6V8-61_7jNixnax8fk4tXGwDtVmN3Wgw8m7KdjhCuw9rxgpI14BgZ3StfUaN5GC9kD_5Kbo0Tre_nViEfNmvWodR6M/s1600/2020-Pres-Union-straw-crowd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="768" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHH81sMwUl996QtlBIF5WeE_hvNuIvRmKhoFous4a9xuJktuQCs6V8-61_7jNixnax8fk4tXGwDtVmN3Wgw8m7KdjhCuw9rxgpI14BgZ3StfUaN5GC9kD_5Kbo0Tre_nViEfNmvWodR6M/s640/2020-Pres-Union-straw-crowd1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Surrogate </i></span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Joe Signorello</i></span></span> makes his pitch to the crowd.</i></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">Nearly two
hundred Union County Democrats crowded into the VFW hall in Union
Monday evening as guests of the Union Township Democratic Club.<br />
<br />
They were there as guests of the Union Democratic Club to conduct a mock presidential primary. After listening
to surrogates for each of the candidates in the presidential race,
attendees cast ballots for their choice.<br />
<br />
The event was the brainchild of State Sen. Joe Cryan, whose home base is Union.<br />
<br />
The event was moderated by Nadège Ricketts, president of the Union Democratic
Club. After each of the surrogates made a pitch for his or her
candidate, attendees balloted.<br />
<br />
</span><span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">The surrogates were --</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
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<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="2" style="width: 70%px;">
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<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Candidate</span></u></span></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Surrogate</span></u></span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">[Biden]</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">Sen. Dick Codey<br />
</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">[Sanders]</span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">Larry Hamm<br />
</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">[Warren]</span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">Sue Altman<br />
</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">[Bloomberg]</span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">Mike Muller<br />
</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">[Klobuchar]</span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">Andrew Cohen<br />
</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="right" valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">[Buttigieg]</span></td>
<td valign="top"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: large;">Joe Signorello<br />
</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span>
<br />
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaRHWv_8O9OhT5V73lKPwEdaEyYVoxq4fxtoLvZsrvs5PQC_mYuPCAPUUYeM2Ia130O7PDsm9w6hg0S18_nibY1pS47_8n90jvYvsjdfaOrju2jhtfSiRIAzKOoZSoEaaLJiqdvDsyTc/s1600/2020-Pres-Union-straw-vote-200224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="768" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaRHWv_8O9OhT5V73lKPwEdaEyYVoxq4fxtoLvZsrvs5PQC_mYuPCAPUUYeM2Ia130O7PDsm9w6hg0S18_nibY1pS47_8n90jvYvsjdfaOrju2jhtfSiRIAzKOoZSoEaaLJiqdvDsyTc/s640/2020-Pres-Union-straw-vote-200224.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />Results of the straw ballot.</i></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span>
<br />
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: x-large;">Bernie Sanders was the big
winner of the evening, taking 60 votes or one third of those cast. Mike
Bloomberg came in second with 33 votes (18.3%), and Joe Biden was third
with 30 votes (16.7%).<br />
<br />
Pete Buttigieg finished fourth with 27 votes (15%) and Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobuchar trailed behind. Tom Steyer did not have a surrogate.<br />
<br />
Though hardly scientific, the poll was still a valuable tool for
Democratic party leadership to gauge the sentiment on the ground for
various presidential candidates.<br />
<br />
Next up is the South Carolina primary this Saturday (February 29).
Tuesday March 3 is "Super Tuesday", when 13 states hold their primaries
simultaneously, with one third of the total convention delegates at
stake (1,344).</span><br />
<div dir="auto">
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>
<br />
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 18.0pt;">-- Dan Damon</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;"> [</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="http://twitter.com/ptoday"><b>follow</b></a></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms"; font-size: 13.5pt;">]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> </span>Danhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07867186465663386310noreply@blogger.com0