I would like to thank the people of Plainfield and the surrounding communities for coming out last night to our foreclosure and financial crisis forum when the weather was rather unpleasant. The forum provided the opportunity for people who are in need of assistance, to listen to those who can supply the needed help from the state, county, and local levels of government. The overall reception of this information was pleasing to me in seeing the audience take in and absorb this helpful information, as well as the much-needed solutions to some of the current foreclosure and financial crises that are rampant throughout the State of New Jersey. As Chairman of the Housing and Local Government Committee in the New Jersey State Assembly, I explained to those in attendance that this is one of a series of meetings that I plan to have throughout the state to inform the people of the services that are available to them when they fall on hard times.
At the meeting, I was happy to see realtors, clergy, the Block Association, and city officials in attendance. Their presence told me that they were adamant about the security and preservation of their respected communities. Rev. DeForest ‘Buster’ Soaries, Chairman and CEO of First Baptist Community Development Corporation, unveiled plans to deal with some of the foreclosure issues that pertain to the residents of the city of Plainfield. Reverend Soaries is hoping to work with the current mayor and council to deal with some of the foreclosure issues that are plaguing our community.
We also had a representative from Union County who explained the county’s reception of a $2.6 million dollar grant that focuses on helping to circumvent some of these issues. He went on to praise Plainfield for being one of the first communities in the state that had submitted the application to receive some of this funding. We also had an attorney from the Assembly Majority Office from the State House in Trenton come in and further assist us in legal matters pertaining to the foreclosure and financial crisis. She explained to us that the state is trying to identify $50 million dollars in relief so that further funding can be used to aid small businesses when they fall on hard times. This would allow them to meet payroll as well as any other expenses that might force them out of business.
I am hoping to meet with social organizations, as well as the clergy, community, and the administration to orchestrate a plan that will channel the flow of this funding to those who are in specific need of the funding. In other words, we want to ensure that this funding saturates those who need it. It is important to secure a tight-knit structure to predicate these funds to the appropriate parties; those who really need the help and support.
For those who were not able to attend last night’s foreclosure and financial crisis forum, feel free to call my office so that I can exhaust my resources in means of putting you in direct contact with the necessary parties; those being either on the state, county, or local levels of government. I will also put you in touch with Rev. Soaries’ office, so that they may further assist you. These groups will further guide you in the direction of solution and satisfaction of your grievance. As I explained to the public last night, it is my duty on the state level, as well as in the city, to bring solutions to problems, rather than criticize situations and then do nothing about it. I herein take pride in this duty.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Bill A-3451
This new bill is one whose focus is to improve the quality of service within an urban enterprise zone (“UEZ”), within the State of New Jersey. I am currently working with the administration of the city of Plainfield and other programs across the state in order to successfully implement this bill. Our goal is for this bill to engage these zones in the perpetuation of excelling as a vendor, as well as increasing wealth, revenue, and worth.
This bill makes several changes to the law governing the urban enterprise zone (“UEZ”) program to do the following: 1) eliminate, for new firms in an existing UEZ or UEZ-impacted district employing under five full-time employees that seek eligibility as a “qualified business,” requirements that the firm’s employees meet certain residency or low-income criteria, or recently have been unemployed or received public assistance benefits; 2) require, on a quarterly basis, the distribution of interest income from the UEZ Assistance Fund to be applied to UEZs in municipalities receiving financial assistance under the “Special Municipal Aid Act,” P.L.1987, c.75 (C.52:27D-118.24 et seq.) for use by those UEZs for project financing or administrative purposes; 3) during any fiscal year immediately following a fiscal year of reduced rate UEZ revenues, require the State Treasurer to dedicate all revenues from reduced rate sales and use tax collections in the fund account of any UEZ that generates less than $5 million in annual sales and use tax revenue; 4) reduce the frequency with which firms must certify eligibility, as a “qualified business,” for UEZ benefits from annually to every three years after initial certification, and provide that if a qualified business is determined to be out of compliance, the business shall have six months to take necessary action to be in compliance before any reduced rate sales and use tax or other UEZ benefits are discontinued; 5) require the UEZ authority to undertake a program performance study which compares the UEZ program’s performance prior to and after the implementation of P.L.2006, c.34 and the impact of the changes to the program upon the implementation of the provisions of this bill, and to update the latter portion of the study within 30 days after the end of the third State fiscal year following the effective date of the bill; and 6) remove a requirement that a municipality exclude the cost of “eligible municipal services,” as defined under the act, from the 35 percent municipal service cap in order for such costs to be deemed an eligible municipal service.
This bill makes several changes to the law governing the urban enterprise zone (“UEZ”) program to do the following: 1) eliminate, for new firms in an existing UEZ or UEZ-impacted district employing under five full-time employees that seek eligibility as a “qualified business,” requirements that the firm’s employees meet certain residency or low-income criteria, or recently have been unemployed or received public assistance benefits; 2) require, on a quarterly basis, the distribution of interest income from the UEZ Assistance Fund to be applied to UEZs in municipalities receiving financial assistance under the “Special Municipal Aid Act,” P.L.1987, c.75 (C.52:27D-118.24 et seq.) for use by those UEZs for project financing or administrative purposes; 3) during any fiscal year immediately following a fiscal year of reduced rate UEZ revenues, require the State Treasurer to dedicate all revenues from reduced rate sales and use tax collections in the fund account of any UEZ that generates less than $5 million in annual sales and use tax revenue; 4) reduce the frequency with which firms must certify eligibility, as a “qualified business,” for UEZ benefits from annually to every three years after initial certification, and provide that if a qualified business is determined to be out of compliance, the business shall have six months to take necessary action to be in compliance before any reduced rate sales and use tax or other UEZ benefits are discontinued; 5) require the UEZ authority to undertake a program performance study which compares the UEZ program’s performance prior to and after the implementation of P.L.2006, c.34 and the impact of the changes to the program upon the implementation of the provisions of this bill, and to update the latter portion of the study within 30 days after the end of the third State fiscal year following the effective date of the bill; and 6) remove a requirement that a municipality exclude the cost of “eligible municipal services,” as defined under the act, from the 35 percent municipal service cap in order for such costs to be deemed an eligible municipal service.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Out with the “New”, In with the TRUE
Over this past weekend, I had the privilege and opportunity to serve as a surrogate speaker for the next President of the United States, Senator Barack Obama. I was proud not only to speak on his behalf, but also in being recognized as a leader in our great state, and as a resident of the city of Plainfield.
Throughout our state, everyone is recognizing how important it is to vote and elect Senator Obama as President of our country. It is no coincidence that Senator Obama has widened the gap between himself and Sen. McCain in New Jersey to 19%, according to the latest Monmouth University/Gannett New Jersey Poll.
The campaign stance of the McCain/Palin ticket reminds me of when I was campaigning in Plainfield; wherein the opposing side ardently chose to speak heavily on the negative issues, and failed to discuss SOLUTIONS to the problems. It is easy to point a finger, but it takes adept character to offer and work towards the solution.
What really caught my attention was the fact that just like here in our city, people want to distance themselves from the past. If you decide to practice that approach, one must realize that you cannot correct the future unless you address where, why, how, and when these problems formed and took shape. The topics of discussion on both party lines should be those things that critically pertain to the citizen of the community. Issues such as healthcare and foreclosures should be on the tips of CONCERNED politician’s tongues. These problems are not only consuming and destroying our national chords of society, but also our LOCAL chords of community.
My point then is this, that sort of behavior is emulated within our own city. Those who do not support the Democratic ticket are not heard criticizing the incompetence and ineptness of President Bush and his policies. These policies are the very sources that crippled us as a local community and nation. This is why these next two weeks are vitally important in our push for CHANGE on a national level. A change we can believe in. We as a city should stand UNITED, sending a STRONG message to the handful of McCain/Palin supporters that we are TIRED of the policies the crippled us for the past 8 years, and that we are READY FOR POSITIVE CHANGE!! We will not expect any more ‘business as usual’ means of conducting political strategy because the business as usual premise is what has us in these dire economic, healthcare, and national crises.
The turnout and participation at the volunteer Democratic Headquarters has been absolutely fabulous! Concerned and driven citizens have been coming from ALL over New Jersey to work with us to get Sen. Obama elected. Hence my irrepressible pride of the TRUE Democrats who have truly shown their commitment to Sen. Obama by coming and canvassing, making phone calls, and registering voters; as a matter of fact we have registered, to this day, over 5,000 new voters!
Just like Sen. Obama is going into Red states, WE are going into EVERY ward to ensure that signs for Sen. Obama are visible, as well as knocking on doors seeking support. An awesome fact is that we have gone through over 2000 Obama signs, without having to go out and put them up. Our community, in hungering for change and support, has been coming in to the headquarters, and asking for them. In fact, I personally ordered over 500 signs for Sen. Obama’s ticket, and in TWO days, they were gone. Thus, I ordered an additional 500 lawn signs that came in to headquarters today!
The majority of the newly registered voters in the city are new residents and are excited for the bright future they see in our city, and wanted to be apart of it. Senator Obama’s campaign leadership in our state recently called my office to congratulate me and the volunteering citizens' efforts as being one of the best field operations site in the state. I personally, want to thank the citizens of the city because without them, our success would not have been able to come full circle. In our transition from good to Better to BEST, we need a POSITIVE, TANGIBLE CHANGE on the federal level; a change that will transform our national economy, and national policies that will then, transform and remedy our statewide and local problems. My dear neighbors, the only way that change will come is if we vote into the office of the President of the United States, Senator Barack Obama.
Throughout our state, everyone is recognizing how important it is to vote and elect Senator Obama as President of our country. It is no coincidence that Senator Obama has widened the gap between himself and Sen. McCain in New Jersey to 19%, according to the latest Monmouth University/Gannett New Jersey Poll.
The campaign stance of the McCain/Palin ticket reminds me of when I was campaigning in Plainfield; wherein the opposing side ardently chose to speak heavily on the negative issues, and failed to discuss SOLUTIONS to the problems. It is easy to point a finger, but it takes adept character to offer and work towards the solution.
What really caught my attention was the fact that just like here in our city, people want to distance themselves from the past. If you decide to practice that approach, one must realize that you cannot correct the future unless you address where, why, how, and when these problems formed and took shape. The topics of discussion on both party lines should be those things that critically pertain to the citizen of the community. Issues such as healthcare and foreclosures should be on the tips of CONCERNED politician’s tongues. These problems are not only consuming and destroying our national chords of society, but also our LOCAL chords of community.
My point then is this, that sort of behavior is emulated within our own city. Those who do not support the Democratic ticket are not heard criticizing the incompetence and ineptness of President Bush and his policies. These policies are the very sources that crippled us as a local community and nation. This is why these next two weeks are vitally important in our push for CHANGE on a national level. A change we can believe in. We as a city should stand UNITED, sending a STRONG message to the handful of McCain/Palin supporters that we are TIRED of the policies the crippled us for the past 8 years, and that we are READY FOR POSITIVE CHANGE!! We will not expect any more ‘business as usual’ means of conducting political strategy because the business as usual premise is what has us in these dire economic, healthcare, and national crises.
The turnout and participation at the volunteer Democratic Headquarters has been absolutely fabulous! Concerned and driven citizens have been coming from ALL over New Jersey to work with us to get Sen. Obama elected. Hence my irrepressible pride of the TRUE Democrats who have truly shown their commitment to Sen. Obama by coming and canvassing, making phone calls, and registering voters; as a matter of fact we have registered, to this day, over 5,000 new voters!
Just like Sen. Obama is going into Red states, WE are going into EVERY ward to ensure that signs for Sen. Obama are visible, as well as knocking on doors seeking support. An awesome fact is that we have gone through over 2000 Obama signs, without having to go out and put them up. Our community, in hungering for change and support, has been coming in to the headquarters, and asking for them. In fact, I personally ordered over 500 signs for Sen. Obama’s ticket, and in TWO days, they were gone. Thus, I ordered an additional 500 lawn signs that came in to headquarters today!
The majority of the newly registered voters in the city are new residents and are excited for the bright future they see in our city, and wanted to be apart of it. Senator Obama’s campaign leadership in our state recently called my office to congratulate me and the volunteering citizens' efforts as being one of the best field operations site in the state. I personally, want to thank the citizens of the city because without them, our success would not have been able to come full circle. In our transition from good to Better to BEST, we need a POSITIVE, TANGIBLE CHANGE on the federal level; a change that will transform our national economy, and national policies that will then, transform and remedy our statewide and local problems. My dear neighbors, the only way that change will come is if we vote into the office of the President of the United States, Senator Barack Obama.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
ASSEMBLY PANELS ADVANCE SWEEPING PACKAGE TO HELP NEW JERSEYANS AND SMALL BUSINESSES WEATHER NATIONAL ECONOMIC CRISIS
Bills Aimed at Growing Jobs, Helping Homeowners, Protecting Middle-Class New Jerseyans Approved in Unique Committee Sessions Aimed at Financial Meltdown. 19 Bills Advance.
(Trenton) – Assembly panels meeting today in unprecedented committee sessions approved a wide-ranging bill package to help hard-working New Jerseyans and the small businesses that employ them emerge strong from the national economic crisis.
The 19 bills advanced today would:
· Promote new jobs and retain existing ones by revamping small business taxes and enhancing grants and incentives for small businesses.
· Prevent home foreclosures and protect homeowners from unscrupulous lenders.
· Help pay winter fuel bills.
· Bring new consumer protections against securities fraud.
· Bring savings and new jobs through alternative energy.
“The extraordinary economic circumstances facing the nation require extraordinary actions by lawmakers here in New Jersey,” said Assembly Speaker Joseph J. Roberts Jr. (D-Camden), who directed committees to focus solely on the financial meltdown and what can be done to help New Jersey workers and businesses.
The sweeping package was approved amid rare joint committee hearings and specially focused meetings of the Assembly Budget Committee and the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee.
Legislation (A-3124) Assemblyman Louis Greenwald (D-Camden) and John McKeon (D-Essex) are sponsoring to enable businesses to write-down net operating losses for up to 20 tax years, as opposed to the currently allowed seven years, was released by the Assembly Budget Committee.
The bill would put New Jersey in line with neighboring states and help businesses recoup losses. The sponsors say the reform is especially needed by small businesses that might not otherwise be able to weather the current economic storm.
The budget panel also advanced legislation (A-2517) Assembly Majority Leader Bonnie Watson-Coleman is sponsoring to create a fund to provide foreclosure prevention counseling and make loans and grants available to nonprofits who help homeowners. It also requires creditors seeking to foreclose on a subprime loan to offer a six-month hold to let borrowers negotiate refinancing.
Another bill (A-688) advanced by the Budget Committee would provide an annual cost-of-living increase in a program that helps low-income seniors and disabled persons pay gas and utility bills. The increase – proposed by Assembly members L. Grace Spencer (D-Essex), Anthony Chiappone (D-Hudson), and Elease Evans (D-Passaic) – would be proportional to the increase in the Social Security benefit for the year or 5 percent, whichever is less. The current assistance is only $225.
Measures to promote job creation through alternative energy initiatives advanced after a joint meeting of the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities and Environment and Solid Waste committees.
One bill (A-843) would provide equal opportunity for businesses to receive energy-related incentives and funding and another (A-2550) would permit wind and solar facilities within industrial zones.
The first measure is being sponsored by Assembly members Upendra Chivukula (D-Somerset) and Marcia Karrow (R-Hunterdon/Warren); the second by Assemblywoman Pam Lampitt (D-Camden), Chivukula, and Assemblywoman Connie Wagner (D-Bergen).
A joint meeting of the Assembly’s Financial Institutions and Insurance and Housing and Local Government committees advanced a bill (A-281) Assemblymen Gary Schaer (D-Passaic) and John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester) are sponsoring to impose tough new requirements on foreclosure consultants and others who contract with homeowners facing foreclosures.
The banking and housing panels also released legislation (A-2496) sponsored by Assemblyman James Holzapfel (D-Ocean) that would require debtors to receive two weeks notice prior to a sheriff’s sale of foreclosed property. The bill also would require a sheriff’s office to give a debtor notice when there has been a surplus in the sale of foreclosed property.
Assemblywoman Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D-Camden) is sponsoring a bill (A-2272) that would include securities under the Consumer Fraud Act to protect consumers from deceptive sales and advertising in the marketing of securities. That measure advanced amid a joint meeting of the Assembly Law and Public Safety and Regulated Professions committees.
The Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee advanced several bills, including:
· A measure (A-2626) Assemblyman Joseph Vas (D-Middlesex) is sponsoring to modify how a manufacturer’s worldwide income is subjected to New Jersey taxes, which would benefit corporations that have a higher percentage of property and payroll in the state.
· A measure (A-2722) Vas, Greenwald, and Assemblyman Albert Coutinho (D-Essex) is sponsoring to reshape how certain corporate sales made in other states are taxed, and eliminate a provision that increases a corporation’s entire net income that is taxable by New Jersey, creating a more accurate tax payment to the state.
· A bill (A-2997) Vas and Coutinho are sponsoring to modify the Business Employment Incentive Program to allow co-ops to participate, give high-performing urban businesses better incentives and allow grant extensions.
· Legislation (A3294) Vas, Greenwald, and Assemblyman Nelson Albano and Matthew Milam (both D-Cape May/Cumberland/Atlantic) are sponsoring to modify the Business Retention and Relocation Assistance Grant program to make it easier for small and mid-size businesses to take advantage of program benefits.
The commerce committee also advanced legislation to provide a corporation business tax and gross income tax credit to employers who allow their employees to telecommute. The bill is sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll (R-Morris).
The Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee and Assembly Human Services Committee convened a joint hearing on the impact of the crisis on health care and social services such as food stamps, Medicaid, and NJ FamilyCare.
“The Assembly is looking at this crisis from every angle,” Roberts said. “We have to be both pro-business and pro-consumer as we look to boost every segment of New Jersey’s economy.”
The hearings come after the Assembly Labor Committee on September 22nd took testimony on the economy and the Assembly on September 25th approved several corporate reform bills to make New Jersey more competitive with other states.
The hearings also come after the Assembly backed cutting business taxes by $275 million last fiscal year, avoided a $350 million business tax increase this year by strengthening the unemployment trust fund and helped businesses by extending building permit approvals through July 1, 2010.
(Trenton) – Assembly panels meeting today in unprecedented committee sessions approved a wide-ranging bill package to help hard-working New Jerseyans and the small businesses that employ them emerge strong from the national economic crisis.
The 19 bills advanced today would:
· Promote new jobs and retain existing ones by revamping small business taxes and enhancing grants and incentives for small businesses.
· Prevent home foreclosures and protect homeowners from unscrupulous lenders.
· Help pay winter fuel bills.
· Bring new consumer protections against securities fraud.
· Bring savings and new jobs through alternative energy.
“The extraordinary economic circumstances facing the nation require extraordinary actions by lawmakers here in New Jersey,” said Assembly Speaker Joseph J. Roberts Jr. (D-Camden), who directed committees to focus solely on the financial meltdown and what can be done to help New Jersey workers and businesses.
The sweeping package was approved amid rare joint committee hearings and specially focused meetings of the Assembly Budget Committee and the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee.
Legislation (A-3124) Assemblyman Louis Greenwald (D-Camden) and John McKeon (D-Essex) are sponsoring to enable businesses to write-down net operating losses for up to 20 tax years, as opposed to the currently allowed seven years, was released by the Assembly Budget Committee.
The bill would put New Jersey in line with neighboring states and help businesses recoup losses. The sponsors say the reform is especially needed by small businesses that might not otherwise be able to weather the current economic storm.
The budget panel also advanced legislation (A-2517) Assembly Majority Leader Bonnie Watson-Coleman is sponsoring to create a fund to provide foreclosure prevention counseling and make loans and grants available to nonprofits who help homeowners. It also requires creditors seeking to foreclose on a subprime loan to offer a six-month hold to let borrowers negotiate refinancing.
Another bill (A-688) advanced by the Budget Committee would provide an annual cost-of-living increase in a program that helps low-income seniors and disabled persons pay gas and utility bills. The increase – proposed by Assembly members L. Grace Spencer (D-Essex), Anthony Chiappone (D-Hudson), and Elease Evans (D-Passaic) – would be proportional to the increase in the Social Security benefit for the year or 5 percent, whichever is less. The current assistance is only $225.
Measures to promote job creation through alternative energy initiatives advanced after a joint meeting of the Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities and Environment and Solid Waste committees.
One bill (A-843) would provide equal opportunity for businesses to receive energy-related incentives and funding and another (A-2550) would permit wind and solar facilities within industrial zones.
The first measure is being sponsored by Assembly members Upendra Chivukula (D-Somerset) and Marcia Karrow (R-Hunterdon/Warren); the second by Assemblywoman Pam Lampitt (D-Camden), Chivukula, and Assemblywoman Connie Wagner (D-Bergen).
A joint meeting of the Assembly’s Financial Institutions and Insurance and Housing and Local Government committees advanced a bill (A-281) Assemblymen Gary Schaer (D-Passaic) and John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester) are sponsoring to impose tough new requirements on foreclosure consultants and others who contract with homeowners facing foreclosures.
The banking and housing panels also released legislation (A-2496) sponsored by Assemblyman James Holzapfel (D-Ocean) that would require debtors to receive two weeks notice prior to a sheriff’s sale of foreclosed property. The bill also would require a sheriff’s office to give a debtor notice when there has been a surplus in the sale of foreclosed property.
Assemblywoman Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D-Camden) is sponsoring a bill (A-2272) that would include securities under the Consumer Fraud Act to protect consumers from deceptive sales and advertising in the marketing of securities. That measure advanced amid a joint meeting of the Assembly Law and Public Safety and Regulated Professions committees.
The Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee advanced several bills, including:
· A measure (A-2626) Assemblyman Joseph Vas (D-Middlesex) is sponsoring to modify how a manufacturer’s worldwide income is subjected to New Jersey taxes, which would benefit corporations that have a higher percentage of property and payroll in the state.
· A measure (A-2722) Vas, Greenwald, and Assemblyman Albert Coutinho (D-Essex) is sponsoring to reshape how certain corporate sales made in other states are taxed, and eliminate a provision that increases a corporation’s entire net income that is taxable by New Jersey, creating a more accurate tax payment to the state.
· A bill (A-2997) Vas and Coutinho are sponsoring to modify the Business Employment Incentive Program to allow co-ops to participate, give high-performing urban businesses better incentives and allow grant extensions.
· Legislation (A3294) Vas, Greenwald, and Assemblyman Nelson Albano and Matthew Milam (both D-Cape May/Cumberland/Atlantic) are sponsoring to modify the Business Retention and Relocation Assistance Grant program to make it easier for small and mid-size businesses to take advantage of program benefits.
The commerce committee also advanced legislation to provide a corporation business tax and gross income tax credit to employers who allow their employees to telecommute. The bill is sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll (R-Morris).
The Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee and Assembly Human Services Committee convened a joint hearing on the impact of the crisis on health care and social services such as food stamps, Medicaid, and NJ FamilyCare.
“The Assembly is looking at this crisis from every angle,” Roberts said. “We have to be both pro-business and pro-consumer as we look to boost every segment of New Jersey’s economy.”
The hearings come after the Assembly Labor Committee on September 22nd took testimony on the economy and the Assembly on September 25th approved several corporate reform bills to make New Jersey more competitive with other states.
The hearings also come after the Assembly backed cutting business taxes by $275 million last fiscal year, avoided a $350 million business tax increase this year by strengthening the unemployment trust fund and helped businesses by extending building permit approvals through July 1, 2010.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Mass Transit Tunnel Project
The NJ TRANSIT Board approved funding today for the final design of the Mass Transit Tunnel project. This was a GREAT move for our State of New Jersey because it will CREATE tens of thousands of jobs, ensure LONG-TERM workforce mobility, and serve as an economic ENGINE for New Jersey and the region for our posterity and us. I had the opportunity to attend this meeting and express my thoughts, cares and concerns pertaining to this Tunnel project. In testifying to the vital importance of this project, which is clearly expressed by other members of the State, I voiced the concern that EVERYONE, regardless of social class, would be afforded the opportunity to work in this project. I also attested to the fact that whatever measures I could take to promote and ensure statewide impartiality, I would do so. Plainly, I want to be sure that both sides be heard so that we can sustain healthy relations. I also applaud the stance of the Board in not allowing New York to dictate the business of our great state, and am striving to maintain healthy, working relations.
Governor Jon Corzine lauded today’s approval and stated, “the importance of this project cannot be overstated in terms of its ability to connect workers to jobs, to strengthen the region’s ability to retain and attract new businesses and, given these very difficult economic times, to immediately create high-paying jobs during years of construction activity.”
Kris Kolluri, NJ TRANSIT Chairman and Transportation Commissioner, stated, “The governor’s steady leadership has kept the Mass Transit Tunnel project advancing during turbulent times, and its one-seat ride and congestion benefits will be felt by commuters and motorists alike for generations. We [NJ TRANSIT] are continuing to work with our congressional delegation to secure federal funding.”
“Today’s action by the Board sets the stage for NJ TRANSIT to move swiftly into final design as soon as the federal government grants approval of the Environmental Impact Statement, which we expect this fall,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles. “We’re on schedule to have shovels in the ground next year.”
Final design is an important milestone because it advances the engineering needed to begin the bidding process for construction of numerous project components starting in 2009. Final design work will follow federal approval of the project. The State of New Jersey, in partnership with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, has committed all but $3 billion, which is being sought from the federal government. The substantial local commitment has helped the project rise toward the top of the nationwide list of projects competing for federal funding.
“Today’s action by the NJ TRANSIT Board moves construction of the mass transit tunnel project one stop closer to reality,” said Port Authority Chairman Anthony Coscia. “Together with our project partner, the Port Authority looks forward to putting shovels in the ground on one of the region’s most important mass transit projects.”
The contract provides funding to The Partnership, a joint venture between Parsons Brinckerhoff Inc., STV Inc., and DMJM Harris Inc. of Newark, to complete preliminary engineering this year and develop a final design for the multi-faceted project in 2009 and 2010. Project elements include two single-track side-by-side commuter rail tunnels across the Hudson River, an expanded New York Penn Station under 34th Street, an equipment maintenance and storage yard in Kearny, and a rail loop at Secaucus Junction that will facilitate transfer-free service between New Jersey and New York for tens of thousands of commuters every day.
Construction is expected to start in the coming year, with rail service starting in 2017. The need for additional commuter rail capacity is obvious, with no room in the pair of existing 100-year-old, single-track trans-Hudson tunnels for any additional trains to accommodate rising peak-period ridership demand. The contract authorizes engineering and design work for up to $124 million, brining the total contract to $214 million.
-Courtesy of Carol Grant
Governor Jon Corzine lauded today’s approval and stated, “the importance of this project cannot be overstated in terms of its ability to connect workers to jobs, to strengthen the region’s ability to retain and attract new businesses and, given these very difficult economic times, to immediately create high-paying jobs during years of construction activity.”
Kris Kolluri, NJ TRANSIT Chairman and Transportation Commissioner, stated, “The governor’s steady leadership has kept the Mass Transit Tunnel project advancing during turbulent times, and its one-seat ride and congestion benefits will be felt by commuters and motorists alike for generations. We [NJ TRANSIT] are continuing to work with our congressional delegation to secure federal funding.”
“Today’s action by the Board sets the stage for NJ TRANSIT to move swiftly into final design as soon as the federal government grants approval of the Environmental Impact Statement, which we expect this fall,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Richard Sarles. “We’re on schedule to have shovels in the ground next year.”
Final design is an important milestone because it advances the engineering needed to begin the bidding process for construction of numerous project components starting in 2009. Final design work will follow federal approval of the project. The State of New Jersey, in partnership with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, has committed all but $3 billion, which is being sought from the federal government. The substantial local commitment has helped the project rise toward the top of the nationwide list of projects competing for federal funding.
“Today’s action by the NJ TRANSIT Board moves construction of the mass transit tunnel project one stop closer to reality,” said Port Authority Chairman Anthony Coscia. “Together with our project partner, the Port Authority looks forward to putting shovels in the ground on one of the region’s most important mass transit projects.”
The contract provides funding to The Partnership, a joint venture between Parsons Brinckerhoff Inc., STV Inc., and DMJM Harris Inc. of Newark, to complete preliminary engineering this year and develop a final design for the multi-faceted project in 2009 and 2010. Project elements include two single-track side-by-side commuter rail tunnels across the Hudson River, an expanded New York Penn Station under 34th Street, an equipment maintenance and storage yard in Kearny, and a rail loop at Secaucus Junction that will facilitate transfer-free service between New Jersey and New York for tens of thousands of commuters every day.
Construction is expected to start in the coming year, with rail service starting in 2017. The need for additional commuter rail capacity is obvious, with no room in the pair of existing 100-year-old, single-track trans-Hudson tunnels for any additional trains to accommodate rising peak-period ridership demand. The contract authorizes engineering and design work for up to $124 million, brining the total contract to $214 million.
-Courtesy of Carol Grant
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The Plan to Overcome Our Statewide Economic and Foreclosure Crisis
I would like to bring to the attention of the residents of my district that Monday’s hearing in Trenton on the foreclosure crisis was highly productive. As Chairman of the State Housing and Local Government Committee, our committee heard an initiative that would move to combat the economic and foreclosure crisis that is sweeping through our state. This initiative is born from the efforts of Reverend DeForest B. Soaries Jr., Chairman and CEO of First Baptist Community Development Corporation. The testimony to the initiative that he and his corporation manufactured was one that gained high bi-partisan support from the committee panel. This industrious approach not only battles foreclosure, but also helps to educate families in order to get them back on track in dealing with their financial issues.
The strategy created by Rev. Soaries’ corporation is called the Housing Assistance and Recovery Program (HARP). The HARP initiative is a family focused, holistic, market based approach strategy to prevent residential foreclosure. The HARP strategy is to purchase an owner occupied home that is in foreclosure or that is bank owned. After the HARP purchase, our staff works with the family that previously owned the home to recover the ownership of their home or to identify another affordable home for them to purchase. HARP works with the family to improve their credit scores, access employment opportunities, participate in family counseling for stress management and other family needs and works aggressively toward re-establishing home ownership within 12 – 24 months. Any homeowner who had equity in their home before they lost the home will recover the equity after re-purchasing through HARP!! In the case of a foreclosed rental property HARP staff works with the tenants to prevent their eviction and stabilize their permanent housing.
HARP is also working with elected officials to stabilize neighborhoods by purchasing vacant homes that have been abandoned after foreclosure. The foreclosure problem is not only a family problem but it is also a neighborhood and municipal problem. HARP is offering mayors and city councils throughout New Jersey our assistance in negotiating bulk purchase of unoccupied bank owned properties to convert into affordable housing for persons already displaced by foreclosure. We are currently working with elected municipal leaders in Orange, Irvington, Willingboro, Trenton, Franklin Township and Burlington City.
Click here to read the entire testimony regarding the HARP model and outline.
Once the federal and state governments decide on how the appropriate funding will be dispersed within our communities, we want to make SURE those needing the funding RECEIVE the funding. This initiative then, can most certainly be the vehicle to ensure those needing the help will get it. Rev. Soaries and I agree that it is of dire importance that organizations whose efforts mirror that of Rev. Soaries’ corporation and our government’s, partner up to be able to help people who need help in these sorts of capacities. With this issue at the forefront of my agenda, the Reverend and I have agreed that one of the first areas up for consideration is my district, District 22. This will enable us to sit down with the communities and figure out how we can collaborate to ensure that those needing help, DO get it. Thus, working with the mayors and councils, the church communities, and the realtors, my district will be the first in New Jersey to move in the direction of helping our communities to resolve financial crisis issues, which are issues that we unfortunately, face today. The issues of trying to make mortgage payments, provide food for one’s family, and in short, the bare necessities, are constricting the ‘home-y’ atmosphere of our communities.
In addition, one of the groups that testified before the committee brought it to our attention that there were many groups in our state that took advantage of innocent people in terms of putting them into deals that the groups KNEW the individuals could not afford. This is why I am asking anyone in my district that feels they were taken advantage of, to please, call my office. I will then, put you in contact with the appropriate authorities, and do everything within my power to bring about the necessary reprimands against those who have taken advantage of innocent people within my district. The number to my district office is (908) 561-5757. My email is Asmgreen@njleg.org.
Already, it has been brought to my attention, that there have been mortgage companies and realtors who have been practicing these sorts of unethical devices. Sadly, the majority of the time, the public is not aware of their rights or are not aware that there are people with the ability to follow through to ensure they are treated fairly. A prime example of this practice was relayed to me by phone. An individual in my district purchased a facility for $700,000 dollars. When the individual moved in, they later found out that there were NO city inspections were made for that property. Needless to say, the new owner faced immediate, COSTLY, problems with their newly acquired facility. I wonder how many other people in our communities have been taken advantage of in this way.
The strategy created by Rev. Soaries’ corporation is called the Housing Assistance and Recovery Program (HARP). The HARP initiative is a family focused, holistic, market based approach strategy to prevent residential foreclosure. The HARP strategy is to purchase an owner occupied home that is in foreclosure or that is bank owned. After the HARP purchase, our staff works with the family that previously owned the home to recover the ownership of their home or to identify another affordable home for them to purchase. HARP works with the family to improve their credit scores, access employment opportunities, participate in family counseling for stress management and other family needs and works aggressively toward re-establishing home ownership within 12 – 24 months. Any homeowner who had equity in their home before they lost the home will recover the equity after re-purchasing through HARP!! In the case of a foreclosed rental property HARP staff works with the tenants to prevent their eviction and stabilize their permanent housing.
HARP is also working with elected officials to stabilize neighborhoods by purchasing vacant homes that have been abandoned after foreclosure. The foreclosure problem is not only a family problem but it is also a neighborhood and municipal problem. HARP is offering mayors and city councils throughout New Jersey our assistance in negotiating bulk purchase of unoccupied bank owned properties to convert into affordable housing for persons already displaced by foreclosure. We are currently working with elected municipal leaders in Orange, Irvington, Willingboro, Trenton, Franklin Township and Burlington City.
Click here to read the entire testimony regarding the HARP model and outline.
Once the federal and state governments decide on how the appropriate funding will be dispersed within our communities, we want to make SURE those needing the funding RECEIVE the funding. This initiative then, can most certainly be the vehicle to ensure those needing the help will get it. Rev. Soaries and I agree that it is of dire importance that organizations whose efforts mirror that of Rev. Soaries’ corporation and our government’s, partner up to be able to help people who need help in these sorts of capacities. With this issue at the forefront of my agenda, the Reverend and I have agreed that one of the first areas up for consideration is my district, District 22. This will enable us to sit down with the communities and figure out how we can collaborate to ensure that those needing help, DO get it. Thus, working with the mayors and councils, the church communities, and the realtors, my district will be the first in New Jersey to move in the direction of helping our communities to resolve financial crisis issues, which are issues that we unfortunately, face today. The issues of trying to make mortgage payments, provide food for one’s family, and in short, the bare necessities, are constricting the ‘home-y’ atmosphere of our communities.
In addition, one of the groups that testified before the committee brought it to our attention that there were many groups in our state that took advantage of innocent people in terms of putting them into deals that the groups KNEW the individuals could not afford. This is why I am asking anyone in my district that feels they were taken advantage of, to please, call my office. I will then, put you in contact with the appropriate authorities, and do everything within my power to bring about the necessary reprimands against those who have taken advantage of innocent people within my district. The number to my district office is (908) 561-5757. My email is Asmgreen@njleg.org.
Already, it has been brought to my attention, that there have been mortgage companies and realtors who have been practicing these sorts of unethical devices. Sadly, the majority of the time, the public is not aware of their rights or are not aware that there are people with the ability to follow through to ensure they are treated fairly. A prime example of this practice was relayed to me by phone. An individual in my district purchased a facility for $700,000 dollars. When the individual moved in, they later found out that there were NO city inspections were made for that property. Needless to say, the new owner faced immediate, COSTLY, problems with their newly acquired facility. I wonder how many other people in our communities have been taken advantage of in this way.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Our Streets are SAFER Because of Mayor Briggs
I was surprised to see headlines in this morning’s edition of the Star Ledger regarding our Mayor Robinson-Briggs and her security detail. To clear the air, the reason our Mayor embraced the security detail was because of the DEATH threats she received early in her administration when crime was running rampant. The writings on the wall left by the past administration were that of out-of-control crime, gang-infested streets, and a higher rate of murders in our city. This unbridled crime menagerie was enabled by the past administration’s laissez-faire approach, thus encouraging criminals to proliferate within our community. That very mindset unfortunately, took the zing out of law enforcement agents on all levels in dealing with our city; they lacked the aggression needed to combat the criminality that had in fact, engulfed our city. These factors, coupled with the threats on her life that OUR mayor received gave way to the advice of OUR law enforcement agency to dispatch a security detail to sustain the well-being of our mayor.
In that same regard, with the crime running free in our streets at the end of the previous administrations term, Mayor Briggs pressed the initiative of cleaning up our city, our streets, ridding our community of the crime wave that was drowning our community. Her mayoral efforts fostered an effective and esteemed relationship with all enforcement on all levels, realizing that in order to gain BACK control of the city from gang members, she felt this relationship was important not only for her safety, but for the safety of OUR community.
Some fruits of our Mayor’s ardent stance and attack on criminality in our city are evident in the major drug busts that our city has accomplished. Gangs and guns have been swept off our streets, lowering the rate of incidences of violence. The Prosecutor’s Office has been working diligently and vigorously to identify and dismantle gang activity in our community. Both the Star-Ledger and the Courier have lauded our efforts and intolerance to crime and community degradation. Moreover, RECENTLY, the city of Plainfield has received POSITIVE press in out collective efforts in fighting the crime in our city.
I believe we have accomplished A LOT within our community over these past 3 years. Yes, we still have a ways to go, just as any other city that has crime issues, but we are running in the right direction! I can honestly say that our community feels safer than it did 5 years ago, due mainly to the fact that the ENTIRE community is at the forefront of our Mayor’s mind, and not just specific wards. In the past, the game of favorites was played, helping one ward while not aiding another. Mayor Briggs , through her sound records of action, defeated the favoritist-mindset that was instilled by the past administration, and has moved to reconnect ALL four wards of the city, promoting community growth and a united front on criminality. Evidence of her efforts in action is shown in how the public displays a renewed faith in out police department.
In being State Chairman of Housing and Local Government, I am exposed to and can see, constant abuse in the systems of civil service and unions. Both facets are excellent establishments, wherein I support them both, but individuals with their selfish ambitions tend to turn honest achievements, into directed blunder. Unfortunately, SOME of those who earn tenure take it upon themselves to place themselves, unjustly, above rules, laws, and guidelines, therefore wasting valued resources. These individuals not only waste taxpayer’s dollars, but they also ignore the fact that they are accountable to a bigger structure.
Due to the severe Wall St. meltdown, budget cuts are eminent across the board, from the federal level down to the local levels. All municipalities then, I hope, should look to their budgets, and ensure that those being paid tax dollars, are in fact, DOING their jobs. Case in point, Dan Damon, who worked for the past administration, was paid $65,000 a year from the department of economic development. The problem here is that NO ONE is really clear on just what he was doing for OUR community, meaning you and me. Thus, it is very odd that when this current administration goes out of its way to ENSURE that our money, tax-paying dollars, are NOT misappropriated, we have a group of people who try to sling mud upon her. It is very sad that they decide to avidly take part in this sort of behavior against the mayor, because Mayor Briggs in fact, represents ALL of us Plainfield! This sort of behavior is exactly why I am in support of legislation on the state level to avoid and deter purposeless spending, spending that hurts and deprives our community of its resources.
Let us, Plainfield, continue to unite and strive towards moving from good, to Better, to BEST!
In that same regard, with the crime running free in our streets at the end of the previous administrations term, Mayor Briggs pressed the initiative of cleaning up our city, our streets, ridding our community of the crime wave that was drowning our community. Her mayoral efforts fostered an effective and esteemed relationship with all enforcement on all levels, realizing that in order to gain BACK control of the city from gang members, she felt this relationship was important not only for her safety, but for the safety of OUR community.
Some fruits of our Mayor’s ardent stance and attack on criminality in our city are evident in the major drug busts that our city has accomplished. Gangs and guns have been swept off our streets, lowering the rate of incidences of violence. The Prosecutor’s Office has been working diligently and vigorously to identify and dismantle gang activity in our community. Both the Star-Ledger and the Courier have lauded our efforts and intolerance to crime and community degradation. Moreover, RECENTLY, the city of Plainfield has received POSITIVE press in out collective efforts in fighting the crime in our city.
I believe we have accomplished A LOT within our community over these past 3 years. Yes, we still have a ways to go, just as any other city that has crime issues, but we are running in the right direction! I can honestly say that our community feels safer than it did 5 years ago, due mainly to the fact that the ENTIRE community is at the forefront of our Mayor’s mind, and not just specific wards. In the past, the game of favorites was played, helping one ward while not aiding another. Mayor Briggs , through her sound records of action, defeated the favoritist-mindset that was instilled by the past administration, and has moved to reconnect ALL four wards of the city, promoting community growth and a united front on criminality. Evidence of her efforts in action is shown in how the public displays a renewed faith in out police department.
In being State Chairman of Housing and Local Government, I am exposed to and can see, constant abuse in the systems of civil service and unions. Both facets are excellent establishments, wherein I support them both, but individuals with their selfish ambitions tend to turn honest achievements, into directed blunder. Unfortunately, SOME of those who earn tenure take it upon themselves to place themselves, unjustly, above rules, laws, and guidelines, therefore wasting valued resources. These individuals not only waste taxpayer’s dollars, but they also ignore the fact that they are accountable to a bigger structure.
Due to the severe Wall St. meltdown, budget cuts are eminent across the board, from the federal level down to the local levels. All municipalities then, I hope, should look to their budgets, and ensure that those being paid tax dollars, are in fact, DOING their jobs. Case in point, Dan Damon, who worked for the past administration, was paid $65,000 a year from the department of economic development. The problem here is that NO ONE is really clear on just what he was doing for OUR community, meaning you and me. Thus, it is very odd that when this current administration goes out of its way to ENSURE that our money, tax-paying dollars, are NOT misappropriated, we have a group of people who try to sling mud upon her. It is very sad that they decide to avidly take part in this sort of behavior against the mayor, because Mayor Briggs in fact, represents ALL of us Plainfield! This sort of behavior is exactly why I am in support of legislation on the state level to avoid and deter purposeless spending, spending that hurts and deprives our community of its resources.
Let us, Plainfield, continue to unite and strive towards moving from good, to Better, to BEST!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
GREEN STATEMENT ON HEARING FOCUSING ON HOME MORTGAGE AND FORECLOSURE CRISIS
(PLAINFIELD) – Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Jerry Green (D-Union) released the following statement today on the Assembly Housing and Local Government Committee’s Monday hearing on the ongoing home mortgage and foreclosure crisis.
The hearing was held with the Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee as part of a daylong emphasis on the economy:
“We already knew the American dream was being put at risk for many of our families through unscrupulous lending and subprime loans, but Monday’s hearing clearly shows the state needs to set the table and employ a full court press to help our struggling homeowners.
“Statistics show home foreclosures in New Jersey rising from 23,000 two years ago to nearly 35,000 last year. But even more disconcerting is that the state may see 50,000 foreclosures this year.
“That’s more than 100,000 New Jersey families who will have suddenly found themselves unable to put a roof over their heads and sleep soundly knowing they have a home for their children.
“Clearly we are limited in what we can do as a state, but Monday’s hearing shows we are ready to help.
“Seven bills combating foreclosures and questionable lending practices were advanced by various Assembly committees. These bills do everything from giving homeowners time to negotiate better terms to imposing tough new requirements for foreclosure consultants to requiring mortgage lenders to maintain vacant homes to ensure we have vibrant neighborhoods.
“Answers aren’t easily found, but we are striving to find them as we continue working to keep the American dream alive for so many New Jerseyans.”
The hearing was held with the Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee as part of a daylong emphasis on the economy:
“We already knew the American dream was being put at risk for many of our families through unscrupulous lending and subprime loans, but Monday’s hearing clearly shows the state needs to set the table and employ a full court press to help our struggling homeowners.
“Statistics show home foreclosures in New Jersey rising from 23,000 two years ago to nearly 35,000 last year. But even more disconcerting is that the state may see 50,000 foreclosures this year.
“That’s more than 100,000 New Jersey families who will have suddenly found themselves unable to put a roof over their heads and sleep soundly knowing they have a home for their children.
“Clearly we are limited in what we can do as a state, but Monday’s hearing shows we are ready to help.
“Seven bills combating foreclosures and questionable lending practices were advanced by various Assembly committees. These bills do everything from giving homeowners time to negotiate better terms to imposing tough new requirements for foreclosure consultants to requiring mortgage lenders to maintain vacant homes to ensure we have vibrant neighborhoods.
“Answers aren’t easily found, but we are striving to find them as we continue working to keep the American dream alive for so many New Jerseyans.”
Future Star Shines in Union County
It was awesome to see the community of Union county come out in support of Senator Barack Obama this past weekend at the rally in Warinanco Park. We were graced with a vibrant number of speakers: Governor Jon Corzine, Majority Leader Bonnie Watson-Coleman, Chairman of the State Democratic Committee Joe Cryan, Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, as well as many of the local democratic mayors, council members, and churches. Each speaker brought with them the enthusiasm, energy, life, and vigor that rallied the audience to their feet, generating deep feelings of unity and community. Their messages of encouragement and empowerment aimed to support and endorse Sen. Obama in his presidential campaign, as well as to rally the community to register, vote, and encourage their neighbors to do the same. From the Governor down, the speakers were united in the message of getting Sen. Obama elected!
It was spectacular to see the energy and the eagerness of the youth in support of the Democratic Party’s drive to make history in this year’s Presidential Election. We were honored with a DYNAMIC, young woman who did more than rally the crowd to their feet, but also educated the audience on the importance of the voice of the youth, and the power they possess. Nadia Brown is a 26 year-old youth leader who is currently pursing a Ph. D in Political Science at Rutgers University. It was and is, a breath of fresh air to see such an empowered, and intelligent young individual who is standing up for a cause that she, and we as a community, so deeply believe in: CHANGE! A TRUE CHANGE we can believe in, and a change we need. A change that Sen. Obama can and will bring to the Presidency. Ms. Brown rocked the crowd with her enthusiasm, her intellect, passion, and zeal for getting young people motivated and willing to register and vote, in order to get THEIR voices heard and THEIR concerns addressed, in order to put Sen. Obama in the White House as President of the United States.
Everyone in Union County recognizes the fact that Nadia Brown brings a TRUE change; because it is the young people who are rallying behind her and her efforts, and it is the young people that she indeed represents. Too many times in the past have our youth been swayed and mislead by the abnormality of the misinformed messages of the ‘business as usual’ crowd. Youth who showed political sharpness were misled by this crowd, stunting their political growth, awareness, proficiency, and ability. That very fact is what really drives home the message, poise, and competency of Nadia Brown and her untainted political dexterity.
ALREADY, Union County is talking about her being a young person in the county that our youth can rally behind, since her support base mirrors that of Sen. Obama’s; both stemming from grass-rooted efforts. Our community has been invigorated by the efforts of Ms. Brown. The people of Union County can take pride in the fact that a young leader is emerging that can IDENTIFY with our youth as a TRUE democrat, rather than trying to divide our democratic party, which has been a major problem in our community. All should recognize the need to be a part of the structure, the family, in order to accomplish the vision of Senator Obama.
I look forward to bringing Nadia Brown to Plainfield so that our young people can hear and listen to a young leader who really has a vision of the future, like Sen. Obama. At the rally, I stressed that as leaders, it should be impressed on our hearts to promote the young people, to open doors for them, and to show them the right way to make a positive change. Nadia Brown is a wonderful by-product of this sort of positive leadership that I encourage in our community. It is this leadership that will lead us across the Bridge of Positive Change, versus the Bridge to Nowhere that the ‘business as usual’ crowd so ardently embraces.
It was spectacular to see the energy and the eagerness of the youth in support of the Democratic Party’s drive to make history in this year’s Presidential Election. We were honored with a DYNAMIC, young woman who did more than rally the crowd to their feet, but also educated the audience on the importance of the voice of the youth, and the power they possess. Nadia Brown is a 26 year-old youth leader who is currently pursing a Ph. D in Political Science at Rutgers University. It was and is, a breath of fresh air to see such an empowered, and intelligent young individual who is standing up for a cause that she, and we as a community, so deeply believe in: CHANGE! A TRUE CHANGE we can believe in, and a change we need. A change that Sen. Obama can and will bring to the Presidency. Ms. Brown rocked the crowd with her enthusiasm, her intellect, passion, and zeal for getting young people motivated and willing to register and vote, in order to get THEIR voices heard and THEIR concerns addressed, in order to put Sen. Obama in the White House as President of the United States.
Everyone in Union County recognizes the fact that Nadia Brown brings a TRUE change; because it is the young people who are rallying behind her and her efforts, and it is the young people that she indeed represents. Too many times in the past have our youth been swayed and mislead by the abnormality of the misinformed messages of the ‘business as usual’ crowd. Youth who showed political sharpness were misled by this crowd, stunting their political growth, awareness, proficiency, and ability. That very fact is what really drives home the message, poise, and competency of Nadia Brown and her untainted political dexterity.
ALREADY, Union County is talking about her being a young person in the county that our youth can rally behind, since her support base mirrors that of Sen. Obama’s; both stemming from grass-rooted efforts. Our community has been invigorated by the efforts of Ms. Brown. The people of Union County can take pride in the fact that a young leader is emerging that can IDENTIFY with our youth as a TRUE democrat, rather than trying to divide our democratic party, which has been a major problem in our community. All should recognize the need to be a part of the structure, the family, in order to accomplish the vision of Senator Obama.
I look forward to bringing Nadia Brown to Plainfield so that our young people can hear and listen to a young leader who really has a vision of the future, like Sen. Obama. At the rally, I stressed that as leaders, it should be impressed on our hearts to promote the young people, to open doors for them, and to show them the right way to make a positive change. Nadia Brown is a wonderful by-product of this sort of positive leadership that I encourage in our community. It is this leadership that will lead us across the Bridge of Positive Change, versus the Bridge to Nowhere that the ‘business as usual’ crowd so ardently embraces.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Union County Rally for Obama!!
Greetings! I am hoping that you will be available on this Saturday, October 4th, to come out and support our county-wide rally for Senator Barack Obama for President. The rally will be held at Warinanco Park, along the Elizabeth/Roselle boarder, starting at 3pm (at the Track Field). So far, the response from ALL of the municipalities in Union County in support of Senator Obama has been one that garnishes pride within OUR community. This rally is concentrated on the last 10 days of voter registration and the balance of the campaign leading up to Election Day. We are hoping that we will not only encourage support for Sen. Obama, but to also register new voters! At the rally, we will discuss canvassing, as well as how to effectively work and operate the voting polls.
We are in for a treat after viewing the list of guest speakers! Governor Jon Corzine, Majority Leader Bonnie Watson-Coleman, and Joseph Cryan, the Chairman of the State Democratic Committee, will be teaming up to share with us powerful messages of encouragement and motivation in furthering our efforts in our support of Sen. Obama for the US Presidency. The democratic mayors of our area, as well as the empowered youth of our communities, will be out in full force demonstrating their commitment to supporting Sen. Obama in this historic presidential campaign.
I earnestly implore YOU to come join and HELP us make history in electing Sen. Barack Obama as President. As the sponsor of this event, I feel deeply proud and enthused in how EVERYONE in Union County has come together to make this event successful. I am most certainly looking forward to seeing you this Saturday at 3pm at Warinango Park! Below is a flyer for the rally.
Come Join the Obama Team!!
When: Saturday October 4th, 2008, 3pm
Where: Warinanco Park, Elizabeth/Roselle Area
**at the Track Field**
What: Union County Rally
Why: To support the next PRESIDENT of the United States... Barack Obama!!
Sponsored by Assm. Jerry Green
and the Democratic Family of Union County
We are in for a treat after viewing the list of guest speakers! Governor Jon Corzine, Majority Leader Bonnie Watson-Coleman, and Joseph Cryan, the Chairman of the State Democratic Committee, will be teaming up to share with us powerful messages of encouragement and motivation in furthering our efforts in our support of Sen. Obama for the US Presidency. The democratic mayors of our area, as well as the empowered youth of our communities, will be out in full force demonstrating their commitment to supporting Sen. Obama in this historic presidential campaign.
I earnestly implore YOU to come join and HELP us make history in electing Sen. Barack Obama as President. As the sponsor of this event, I feel deeply proud and enthused in how EVERYONE in Union County has come together to make this event successful. I am most certainly looking forward to seeing you this Saturday at 3pm at Warinango Park! Below is a flyer for the rally.
Come Join the Obama Team!!
When: Saturday October 4th, 2008, 3pm
Where: Warinanco Park, Elizabeth/Roselle Area
**at the Track Field**
What: Union County Rally
Why: To support the next PRESIDENT of the United States... Barack Obama!!
Sponsored by Assm. Jerry Green
and the Democratic Family of Union County
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Grant Awarded for the G.R.E.A.T. City of Linden
It brings me great pleasure to announce to the city of Linden that we have been awarded a federal grant in our efforts to thwart gang activity. Senator Robert Menendez recently informed me that the federal government has awarded the Linden Police Department a grant for $43,102 dollars, in its efforts of combating gang activity within our community. From this grant, the Gang Resistance Education and Training program (G.R.E.A.T.) will look to disarm the growing threat of gang activity within our community.
G.R.E.A.T. is a life-skills competence program designed to provide students with the skills they need to avoid gang pressure and youth violence. G.R.E.A.T.’s violence prevention curricula helps students develop values and practice behaviors that will help them avoid destructive activities. G.R.E.A.T. program staffers will coordinate project activities with federal, regional, state, and local agencies, as well as individuals from community and civic groups. The goal of the program is to train criminal justice professionals to deliver a school-based curriculum that teachers life-skills competencies, gang awareness, and violence-avoidance techniques.
The city of Linden, through the police department, will utilize funding to provide the elementary, middle school, families, and summer components in an effort to establish positive life skills and healthy conflict resolution among youth, and curb recruitment from gangs coming into the community from adjacent towns. Through the grant, approximately 2,300 students and 20 families will receive the G.R.E.A.T. curricula. The elementary program will target all fourth and fifth grade students in the city, while the core, middle school curriculum will be provided to all seventh grade students in the public and parochial middle schools.
In addition, the department, along with the Linden Recreation Department and a community-based organization, will offer the summer program to students entering the sixth grade. The families component will also be offered during the year to parents of all elementary and middle school youth in order to help them become aware of the signs of gang activity.
I am excited about this grant award because this is one of many sorts of initiatives that we as a community look to not only be addressed, but also ACTED upon at the federal level. I would also like to again, thank and congratulate Senator Robert Menendez for the time he devoted in securing this grant for our community. The problem of gang activity is not limited to the city of Linden, but is a national problem. However, with grants like these, which allow us to combat the prevalence of gang activity, we can look to transition, as a COMMUNITY, from Good, to Better, to BEST!!
G.R.E.A.T. is a life-skills competence program designed to provide students with the skills they need to avoid gang pressure and youth violence. G.R.E.A.T.’s violence prevention curricula helps students develop values and practice behaviors that will help them avoid destructive activities. G.R.E.A.T. program staffers will coordinate project activities with federal, regional, state, and local agencies, as well as individuals from community and civic groups. The goal of the program is to train criminal justice professionals to deliver a school-based curriculum that teachers life-skills competencies, gang awareness, and violence-avoidance techniques.
The city of Linden, through the police department, will utilize funding to provide the elementary, middle school, families, and summer components in an effort to establish positive life skills and healthy conflict resolution among youth, and curb recruitment from gangs coming into the community from adjacent towns. Through the grant, approximately 2,300 students and 20 families will receive the G.R.E.A.T. curricula. The elementary program will target all fourth and fifth grade students in the city, while the core, middle school curriculum will be provided to all seventh grade students in the public and parochial middle schools.
In addition, the department, along with the Linden Recreation Department and a community-based organization, will offer the summer program to students entering the sixth grade. The families component will also be offered during the year to parents of all elementary and middle school youth in order to help them become aware of the signs of gang activity.
I am excited about this grant award because this is one of many sorts of initiatives that we as a community look to not only be addressed, but also ACTED upon at the federal level. I would also like to again, thank and congratulate Senator Robert Menendez for the time he devoted in securing this grant for our community. The problem of gang activity is not limited to the city of Linden, but is a national problem. However, with grants like these, which allow us to combat the prevalence of gang activity, we can look to transition, as a COMMUNITY, from Good, to Better, to BEST!!
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