Recently, CNN Correspondent Poppy Harlow did a feature story on foreclosures in Plainfield. She connected foreclosures with crime in the city. This is absolutely absurd! The story was aired on national TV and made Plainfield appear to be a war zone that houses criminals. The negative publicity did more harm than good.
I received several phone calls from individuals locally and across the country questioning what is going wrong with Plainfield. A short answer was given in one word … leadership. The irresponsibility of our leader to allow such a thing is incredible. I, like others, was appalled with the mayor labeling Plainfield as “the bank owns my town.” Where is the defense of the city you represent?
Due to the economic downturn, foreclosures are a given, but not because of crime. People are faced with foreclosure due to unfortunate circumstances that create a hardship; whether it is a loss of income, medical reasons, fraudulent loans or personal financial mismanagement. The country itself is plagued with foreclosures. But we must offer people HOPE…a sense of pride, a sense of belonging.
There are many questions about the story that remain unanswered. The residents have a right to know how it all came into play. First, what is the overall benefit to Plainfield for the CNN visit? Who invited Poppy Harlow to Plainfield? Where did she get her data from? Who chose the area to be videotaped? Were the residents she interviewed pre-selected or randomly selected? Is this part of our new economic development strategy? How do you justify the statement, “50% of the city’s workers have been cut since February.” Why was a restaurant located in Scotch Plains included in the story? Hopefully, we can get the answers to these pertinent questions. Only time will tell!
In the meantime, Plainfield residents, stay strong! There are many positive aspects to this city that really need to be featured, unlike the debacle we just witnessed. Let’s unite, develop and implement creative ways of how to make a difference for the betterment of Plainfield.
Best Regards,
Dee Dameron
STILL SPEAKING MY MIND!
I received an out of state phone call asking me about my decision to move to Plainfield. It is one that I am thankful I made. However, it is because of the potential, not th current situation that I chose to stay.
ReplyDeleteThis mayor has got to go, and before her term is up. She is ruining this city, and if she had an ounce of sense (that answers that question) she would leave. Did it not occur to her that she just admited that in the 6 years she has been mayor, she has done nothing and the town has deteriorated? No, it did not - she is the Drama Queen of the Queen City.