Netherwood Station Will Remain Open!

I got word a little while ago that the “discontinuance study” for Netherwood Station which was scheduled for today was cancelled. According to Allen Tanko, The U.S.P.S. District Discontinuance Coordinator, the Postal Service will be keeping Netherwood Station open. The notice I received simply read, “The USPS has decided to stop the study at this point and keep the Netherwood Station open.” No reason was given, and the vagueness of the phrase “at this point” means that another, future conversation may take place. For now, though, it looks like Plainfielders will still be able to use the Netherwood Station.

Regards,

Adrian

Service is Not What We Get, It's What We Give!

Dinner is served!

This past Sunday, the members of the New Democrats for Plainfield had dinner with the men, women, and children who reside at the Plainfield YMCA. This was done as one of our community outreach projects and in fulfillment of our mission to serve our community, including those less fortunate than ourselves. It is at this time of the year, in the spirit of the holiday season that we must give to those who need some assistance. Several members of our club did precisely that on Sunday, not just dropping off the meals, but serving and eating with our YMCA friends in need. It was a wonderful way to help lift the spirits of all present and share in a delicious homemade meal—smoked string beans, ham, baked chicken, macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, collard greens, barbecue chicken, peas and rice, baked ziti, corn bread, salad, and a variety of sumptuous desserts—all prepared by New Dems club members.

Dee and Niajah, with homemade gift bags for everyone!

Little 8 year-old Niajah Lawton, niece of Dee Dameron, added a special touch to our evening spent with the families by preparing (with a little help from Dee and her sister) 100 gift bags for the residents—these were Niajah’s gifts to them. It was a great lesson for an 8 year-old to learn and to teach. At a time when most children are looking for presents from Santa, Niajah was giving all that she could. As the Bible says, it’s more blessed to give than to receive.

We hope that the families with whom we had dinner on Sunday enjoyed the meal as much as we enjoyed serving it. Our only regret is that we couldn’t feed more people and that so many people still go hungry in this, the land of plenty. We will make sure that we do our part again with our next food drive in January.

Delicious food being served by club members.

I wish to thank all of the members of the New Democrats and their families who chose to spend their Sunday evening with the over 50 families at the YMCA. I thank them for caring and sharing. Service is not what we get, it is what we give. 

Regards,

Adrian

In the Spirit of the Holiday Season!

The holiday time of year is one that we all look forward to; it’s a time to share with family and friends in the spirit of the season. It is also a time to remember the least among us and to do all that we can to make their holidays as pleasant as can be, given the current harsh economic realities. Joblessness, homelessness, and for some, hopelessness, are ingredients that could result in unexpected and out-of-character behavior.

As our brother’s/sister’s keepers, we must do all that we can to minimize the burdens, frustrations, depression, anxiety, and loneliness that so many may feel at this time of the year. To this end, if you can place joy into the heart of another person, do it; if you can lift the spirits of a neighbor who maybe in the doldrums, lift them; if you can shine light unto a path that will cause those who may feel lost to find their way, then let your light shine brightly; if you can provide warmth to a family that may be without heat this winter season, do so; if you can give from the many blessings that have been bestowed upon you, be a generous giver, and if you can ease the pangs of the hungry with a meal, be a provider; but in everything that you do, let it be from the heart.

Also, you must take care of yourself during this season, as there are those who do not have the community’s best interest at heart. As you go about your business, always be aware of your surroundings and take extra precautions when traveling alone to and from your vehicle with the many bags that some of you will be carrying. Also, be very careful as you travel the highways and through our city and be mindful of the speed limits. Be the eyes and ears of your neighbor and be on the lookout for anyone who might try to separate you and your neighbor from some of the things you own. Do not hesitate to report suspicious behavior, individuals and activity to our local Police Department.

Finally, have a good time; have fun this holiday season and do a good deed for someone—anyone, in the spirit of the season. God bless you and your family.

Regards,

Adrian and Amelia