Weekend Events in Plainfield, New Jersey on November 1, 2008 - 10/31/08 07:08 PM
Tomorrow - November 1. 9 AM - 2 PM (Rain or shine). Electronics Recycling. Items accepted include: Monitors, keyboards, CPUs, TVs, phones, VCRs, printers and more. (See full list, including conditions and exclusions here.) Sponsored by Union County. At Schering-Plough, Kenilworth. Pre-registration NOT required, but proof of Union County residence is. Info: (908) 654-9889. Tomorrow - November 1. 5:30 PM Sharp bus departure. Community Basketball Trip: Nets vs. Golden State Warriors. Plainfield Recreation Division is sponsoring a bus trip to the game at the Meadowlands. Bus departs City Hall parking lot at 5:30 PM sharp. Game starts at 7:30 PM, bus will … (0 comments)

A Strategy to Stave Off Foreclosure and Stimulate The Economy - 10/30/08 06:59 AM
John D. Geanakoplos a professor of economics at Yale and a partner in a hedge fund that trades in mortgage securities, offers a another alternative to foreclosure. In his Op-Ed piece Mortage Justice Is Blind for today's New York Times, he discusses what used to be the parties to a mortgage and how the ability to rework a mortgage was more approachable. However, with securitization of mortgages, the dynamics of the relationship has changed and so has the ability to rework mortgage loans. The article highlights the challenges of reworking loans in the world of "master servicers' and offers the solution of community-based, … (2 comments)

22nd Annual Julian Babson Memorial Lecture - 10/30/08 06:06 AM
On Saturday,  November 1, 2008 at 7 p.m., a panel consisting of Lisa Yuskavage, a contemporary figurative painter; Dorothea Rockburne an abstract painter; Siri Hustvedt a novelist and Rackstraw Downes a realist painter and author, will come together for a discussion on realism, the artwork of Philip Pearlstein, his relationship with his contemporaries and the world of art. The panel will be moderated by Phong Bui, co-founder and publisher of the Brooklyn Rail. For more information call the Montclair Art Museum at 973-746-5555.
 
 

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Conversations On Art and Philip Pearlstein - 10/30/08 05:50 AM
Montclair State University has joined forces with Montclair Art Museum to offer a conversation with Linda Nochlin on October 30, 2008 at 7 p.m., about her life and Philip Pearlstein. Ms. Nochlin is one of the most influential feminist 19th and 20th century art history scholars. For more information call the Montclair Art Museum at 973-746-5555
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Does Anybody Have A Clue? - 10/26/08 08:51 AM
I have been saying for months that all of the foreclosures are not due to the mortgage meltdown. There are far more homeowners who have had their homes for nearly fifteen years who have fallen victim to the economy.
Companies are downsizing if not going out of business and that has a direct impact on one's ability to meet financial obligations. The New York Times article Spending Stalls and Businesses Slash U.S. Jobs provides a perfect illustration of what is happening. Over the last two weeks Merck, Yahoo, General Electric, Xerox, Pratt & Whitney, Goldman Sachs, Whirlpool, Bank of America, Alcoa, Coca-Cola, … (9 comments)

The Price of Freedom - 10/26/08 04:17 AM
"The Price of Freedom,"is a multi-media exhibition curated by Jeanne Brasile, which had it's opening on October 25, 2008 at the City Without Walls Gallery (cWOW).The exhibit explores the essence and representation of democracy, freedom and human rights, apropos for this presidential election year.
Some of the artist to be featured include: Daniel Alvarado (Red Bank, NJ), John Avelluto (Brooklyn, NY), Gianluca Bianchino (Little Falls, NJ), Kathy A. Budd (Oswego, NY), Jose Camacho (Montclair, NJ), Mary Dritschel (Chicago, IL), Christian Faur (Granville, OH), Leandro Carlos Flaherty (Bronx, NY), Marianne Fourie (Jersey City, NJ), Asha Ganpat (Newark, NJ), Martha Kelshaw (Bernardsville, NJ), … (0 comments)

Crescent Concerts: Young Artists Showcase - 10/25/08 09:02 PM
3 PM on Sunday October 26, 2008 you will be ale to witness the artistry of five young talented performers under the age of sixteen.  Featured performers include: Sophia Barcelar - Cello, Monica Chon - Piano, Patricia Hso - piano, Dana Ramirez - Violin, Kevin Shi - Piano and Albert Wu - piano. The annual Crescent Concerts: Young Artists Showcase will take place at the Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church located at Watchung Avenue and East 7th Street. Tickets: $20, $15/senior, $5/student. Info: (908) 756-2468 or www.crescentconcerts.org/.
 

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Newark Arts Council Open Doors '08 - 10/25/08 08:09 PM
Tomorrow is the last day of the Studios Tour presented by Chase. Sunday will be the culmination of a four day showcase of arts related events.
Tomorrow's lineup of gospel performances will take place at 482 Washington Street (At the corner of Crawford).
The schedule includes
12:00 PM: Integrity House Choir
1:00 PM: YOPAT Newark Idol Youth Contestants
2:00 PM: Gallman's Newark Dance Theater Liturgical Dance Ministry
3:00 PM: Tiara Holt
4:00 PM: Divine Glory Chior
visit www.NewarkArts.org for more information
 
 
 
 

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More Financial Institutions Go Down - 10/24/08 12:11 PM
Pennsylvannia's largest bank buys Ohio's largest bank. That's correct PNC is buying National City. National City was ranked 10th in loans to sub-prime borrowers. Most of there sub-primeholding were placed with a subsidiary known as First Franklin Financial, which was sold to Merrill Lynch & Company, contributing to the brokerage's failure. Financial institutions are using some of the bailoutfunds for the mergers, which has the government's approval.
The other financial institution is Sovereign Bancorp Inc., to be acquire by Banco Santander - Spain's largest lender.
 

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Real Estate Settlements Go Green - 10/24/08 11:37 AM
The economic slump has many businesses trimming expenses. Even fewer are spending on research and development with notable exception of course, in real estate.
There is always something new in real estate with the dawn of each day and today is no different. A couple of real estate attorneys have used the slowdown in the market to come up with a new business venture, referred to as Esettlement Solutions LLC. The business statement calls for paperless electronic closings. The founders, Joel Steinberg and Larry Arch, are offering free settlements through November of this year. The projected cost beyond November is $600 … (4 comments)

"Music Speaks" Jazz Photo Exhibition and Open House - 10/23/08 12:16 AM

The place is 450 Washington Street in the Lincoln Park district of Newark, New Jersey. The venue is an eco friendly and LEED certified commercial and residential mixed use development. Come and experience the photography of Ronald Herard, Robert Home and Andre Walker. Enjoy the images that have captured R&B and Jazz performers.
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The Pierro Gallery of South Orange, New Jersey - 10/20/08 08:26 PM
South Orange's Pierro Gallery is an incubator for established and emerging regional  contemporary visual artists. The goal and mission of the gallery is to create an opportunity for the artists to exhibit and the public to view the wonderful talent in the area.
The gallery's current exhibit is entitled: iDraw, iPaint, iSculpt, iPhotograph. The exhibit is curated by Marco Munoz, artists include Drew Knapp (Drawing), Bonnie Maranz (Painting), Barbara Wallace (Sculpture), Evonne Davis (Photography). The exhibit runs through November 23, 2008.
The Pierro Gallery is housed in South Orange's Baird Center at 5 Mead Street, with hours from 1 - 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
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Calling All Wine Aficionados To South Orange - 10/20/08 03:00 AM
The South Orange Middle School at 70 North Ridgewood Road in South Orange is the venue for a wine lovers treat. The class is being hosted by the South Orange - Maplewood Adult school. Attendees will come away with a better understanding of the wine producing regions of France. In addition to learning about the various types of grapes grown in France, you'll also get an opportunity to appreciate the 18th century architecture of french cathedrals and chateaus to be shared in a slide presentation. Each person in attendance will receive information, useful in planning a visit to France. The class will … (2 comments)

Oct. 24 Bail Out The People Protest/Rally On Wall St. - 10/20/08 02:03 AM
Some Americans are lifting their voices in an concerted effort to make Washington D.C. sit up and take notice. The notice being offered is that many Americans feel the need for the government to do right by the average American and not a select 1% of the nation's population, which happens to be the wealthiest.
The Ad Hoc National Network to Stop Foreclosures and Evictions is calling for rallies around the country October 24 - 27, 2008. The purpose of the rallies is to draw attention to specific needs of the many Americans around the country.
Here on the east coast … (1 comments)

Homeowner's Fall "To Do List" - 10/19/08 11:48 AM
As the foliage continues its journey of ever changing hues and the chill in the air lingers through both day and night, I am reminded of the chores that are ahead of me in preparation for the next season.
That chill in the air reminds me of the importance of ensuring the seals on the storm windows and the weather stripping around the doors are adequate to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
The annual cleaning of air ducts will mitigate the build of more mold spores and dust, helping to create better air quality.
There is still time … (0 comments)

Civil Unions, Marriage & Estate Planning for Same-Sex Couples - 10/17/08 10:45 PM
On Thursday, October 23, 2008 you are invited to attend A New Era of Rights and Responsibilities:Civil Unions, Marriage & Estate Planning for Same-Sex Couples, in Maplewood, New Jersey.
Challenges facing same sex couples necesitate customized estate planning to ensure that surviving loved ones are protected.
The symposium will consist of a panel of professionals to include:
Parinaz Cole, Financial Advisor - Merrill Lynch
Jim Cole, Financial Advisor - Merrill Lynch
Debra E. Guston, Attorney - Guston & Guston, L.L.P.
Christopher Bellis, Deputy Director of Development - Lambda Legal 
The symposium will run from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Cent' Anni Restaurant located … (0 comments)

Cultural Diversity/ Fair Housing Poster Contest - 10/17/08 12:13 PM
The Equal Opportunity & Cultural Diversity Committees of the New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR), seeks to engage elementary school age children in an opportunity to learn about fair housing. To accomplish this goal, NJAR committees have initiated a 2009 poster contest!The association is requesting that poster submissions be cheerful, ingenious and on the subject of fair housing. The winning entries will be featured in NJ REALTOR® Magazine and the message will shared with thousands of children.
Submissions can be made at the office of ERA Queen City Realty, located at 76 South Orange Avenue in South Orange, all submissions must be made … (1 comments)

OPEC In A Pinch - A Plum For The Economy And Real Estate - 10/17/08 11:55 AM
Escalating oil prices have helped to wreak havoc with our economy. From the cost of gas at the pumps to the cost of goods and services, Americans have seen a huge jump in the cost of living expense.
However, there should be some reprieve around the corner.The high prices have resulted in a tightening of the belt and thereby forcing the price of oil down, down below $70 per barrel. Americans and others around the world who are oil dependent have taken drastic measures to cut back in the wake of global financial challenges.
This bodes well in the short … (0 comments)

Warren Buffett Has Spoken! - 10/17/08 10:29 AM
I was reading the Opinion Page of The New York Times today and came across an opinion entitled Buy American. I Am and low and behold it was penned by none other than Warren Buffett. Clearly Mr. Buffett was referencing the purchase of stocks, given the condition of the economy and the rock bottom prices on shares.
The most salient point for me was; A simple rule dictates my buying: Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful. And most certainly, fear is now widespread, gripping even seasoned investors. To be sure, investors are right to … (0 comments)

Redfin, the Real Estate Search Site - 10/16/08 06:27 AM
Just a couple of days ago Redfin announced a 20% cut in its staff. After the layoffs, Redfin will have just 75 employees covering Seattle, Boston, Los Angeles, Washington DC and Chicago. The online based real estate firm was bolstered by $20 million dollars infused by venture capital, claiming that if profits are down by 50%, the company could still generate $30 billion per year.
Redfin is claiming a 50% increase in revenue and 300% increase in traffic and they still had to layoff 20% of their staff. They are hoping that new service offerings to be unveiled in November, will … (5 comments)

Surviving and Celebrating Life's Changes and Challenges - 10/15/08 09:22 PM
The venue is the Steeplechase Cancer Center at the Somerset Medical Center for a inspirational and informative session. On October 21, 2008 Beverly kirkhart, celebrated motivational speaker and Co-author of Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul and author of My Healing Companion, will be a guest speaker as part of the Somerset Medical Center's fall calendar of events. Ms. Kirkhart will offer tips on surviving the challenges of today. Sign in begins at 6:30 p.m. and the program runs 7 to 8:30 p.m.
 
 

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Godspell Comes To Plainfield - 10/14/08 10:30 PM
From Carnegie Melon University, LaMama in New York's Greenwich Village, off broadway and now Plainfield's United Church of Christ for Godspell's Plainfield debut in November.
Godspell is a musical written by Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak. The basis of the play is taken from the Gospel of Matthew. The musical play is enriched with traditional hymns.
 

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A Call To Action - 10/12/08 06:09 AM
The people on main street are looking to Washington to provide the lead on how best to regain our financial footing as a Nation. The trouble is that Washington needs help. The reality is that we are not alone in this quagmire. A global economy hitting the skids needs a concerted global effort for regaining stability.
There was no better example of this than when Iceland seized control of its three major banking institutions that were faltering. To make matters worse, Iceland appeared to be favoring its citizens over foreigners when it came to insuring deposits. Clearly such an approach wreaks havoc … (1 comments)

Plainfield Events for the Week of October 19, 2008 - 10/11/08 09:21 PM
Sunday - October 19. 9 AM - 4 PM. FOSH Fall Garage Sale to benefit the provide scholarships for Plainfield High School students, classes at duCret Art School maintenance of the Leland Avenue Park and beautification of the Netherwood Train Station. Start at Leland Avenue at Watchung Avenue. Free and open to all. Rain or shine. Sunday - October 19. 9 AM - 3 PM. Annual 'HAL'  (Homeless Animal Lifeline) Yard Sale.  Provides support to homeless animals. Located at 1326 Watchung Avenue. Monday - October 20. 9:30 AM Registration. 'Last Chance 2008' Golf Outing: Benefit of the Tri-County Red Cross. 18 holes w/golf … (0 comments)

Plainfield Events for the Week of October 12, 2008 - 10/11/08 08:23 PM
 
Tuesday - October 14. This is the last day to register to vote for the November Presidential Election. for more information contact the Union County Board of Elections at (908) 527-4121, located at 271 North Broad Street in Elizabeth, NJ. Tuesday - October 14. 7:30 PM. City Council Agenda Session will take place at the City Hall Library. 515 Watchung Avenue. Al are welcome. Wednesday - October 15. 7:30 PM. Cultural & Heritage Commission. will take place at the  City Hall Library. All are welcome. Wednesday - October 15. 9 PM. Third Presidential Debate. will be hosted at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. Bob … (0 comments)

New Jersey's Government Responds to Mortgage Meltdown - 10/11/08 07:34 PM
Gerry Green, Chairman of the Assembly Housing and Local Government Committee, has co-authored Assembly bill 2517.
The crux of the bill will provide grants to qualified counseling agencies to provide foreclosure prevention counseling, emergency foreclosure prevention assistance, as well as loans and grants to non-profits for the purpose of purchasing mortgage loans and properties from creditors.
The funds would come from the Foreclosure Prevention Revolving Trust Fund within in the department of Community Affairs.
The bill calls for future funding to come from lenders who issues a notice to foreclose on a mortgage pursuant to the "Fair Foreclosure Act," P.L..1995, c.244 (C.2A:50-53 … (0 comments)

What is Your Emergency Response Plan? - 10/11/08 06:15 PM
The month of October is Fire Prevention Month. This is an opportunity to focus on preparedness to address fire hazards. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, the daily challenges can cause distractions when working in the kitchen. In 2005, 146,400 house fires started in the kitchen with unattended stoves. In many instances there was a loss of life.
As homeowners face mounting costs for home maintenance, there is growing concern that the cost of fuel will result in people seeking alternative means to heat homes. Kerosene heaters, space heater and the like can be dangerous if used improperly.
It is important … (0 comments)

Spellbinding Consequences of the National Crisis - on a Personal Level - 10/05/08 01:00 PM
The national bailout/Rescue Plan is now law. Wall Street can begin its upward ascension. Perhaps it won't be business as usual, that remains to be seen.
However, for the people on main street, not much has changed.In a number of instances due to circumstances beyond their control, many still find their backs against a wall with no way out. They continue to struggle silently with financial burdens that threaten their way of life. far too many were barely making it before the national crisis. The poor performance of the economy over the last eight years is taking its toll on some … (3 comments)

Plainfield Events for The week Of October5, 2008 - 10/04/08 07:21 AM
 
Sunday - October 5. 1 - 3 PM. FOSH: Annual Blessing of the Animals. Plainfield residents and their pets will gather at Leland Avenue Park adjacent to the Cook School Pond for a fun filled day of outdoor activity. The annual blessing will commence at 2 PM. All are welcomed. FREE. Sunday - October 5. 1 - 3 PM. Book Signing: Union County Black Americans. Ethel Washington of Plainfield, will be autographing copies of her book entitled: Union County Black Americans. The book features anecdotal stories about the contributions of the black Americans of Union County. The stories are interspersed with period photography.Other featured … (1 comments)

Light The Night Walk - Seeking Cures for Leukemia and Lymphoma - 10/01/08 08:16 AM
Steven Caputo, a friend and fellow real estate professional (real estate attorney) has been waging a campaign along with his family to help his daughter Elizabeth win her battle against Lymphoma.
On October 4, 2008, Light The Night Walk will seek to raise monies necessary for the research to find a cure for Leukemia and Lymphoma. You can lend your support to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society by joining the walk, which will commence at 5:30 p.m. with a check in at Colonial Park in Franklin Township, New Jersey. For more information visit: www.teamibby.com.
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William Collins, Vice President

Scotch Plains, NJ

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FirstService Residential Realty

Address: 4000 Route 66, Tinton Falls, NJ, 07753

Office Phone: (732) 918-8398

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