Plainfield Unitarian Society Celebrating Restoration of Historic Stained Glass Facade

It's great to see news and coverage surrounding the restoration of the Plainfield Unitarian Society's stained glass facade. The stained glass artist Oliver Smith created diverse themes including family, music, commerce and featured six glass columns topped by symbols representing the world's major religions and philosophies.

Bill Providing Tax Credits for Rehabbing Historic Properties Clears Legislature

A bill that would provide tax credits for property owners seeking to rehabilitate historic homes received final legislative approval when it was recently passed by the Senate.

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Plainfield Symphony: Fireside Recital

Now is the time to RSVP to our Fireside Recital featuring Evelyn Estava and Mark Yolleck performing Brahms, Prokofiev and Chausson. This special fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday, Jan 23 at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $40/person.

Location: 1050 Rahway Road, Plainfield

RSVP to info@plainfieldsymphony.org by Jan. 15

Twelfth Night Progressive Dinner

On Saturday January 8th the district came together for it's annual Twelfth Night Progressive Dinner. The progressive dinner was graciously hosted by some of the most elegant homes within the district and outfitted with culinary delights. Friends and neighbors were able to catch up and speak of an exciting future for the district.

The 2010 President, Lamont Blowe gave thanks to the Executive Board that served with him: Arne Aakre, Clarence McGhie, and Jan Jasper. Lamont then introduced the 2011 Van Wyck Brooks Historic District President, John Stewart, Jr.

The new President introduced the new Executive Board: Larry Quirk (VP), Sue Keller (Treasurer), and Jan Jasper (Secretary).

Special Thanks was given to all the homeowners and hosts, volunteers, Richard Lear, Carlos Ponton, and to the Twelfth Night Chairperson Carolyn Ruffin.

"A Historic District1

and identity..."

Sue Keller and friends

Hollace Hoffman,

Jan Jasper, and Tom Smith

The beautiful spread at

April Stefel's home

District members enjoying

great company and food

Good Neighbors, Eats, and Cool Breezes - Finally!

After a week of punishing heat, we relaxed and cooled off with a picnic at Sue Keller's house on Saturday, July 10 .

Stickley Museum Day Trip

A number of VanWyckBrooks district members went on a field trip to The Stickley Museum on June 5, 2010 and had a great time! This 30-acre site in Morris County, a National Historic Landmark, was designed by Gustav Stickley, the leader of the Arts and Crafts movement in the US. Stickley purchased the property in 1908 and envisioned creating a self-sufficient compound for the training of young men in farming and furniture manufacture. The 1911 main house, The Log House, was designed by Stickley and constructed with material from the site. More info is at www.stickleymuseum.org.

VWB Historic District supports the Plainfield Rescue Squad!

In this economic climate, and with the loss last year of Muhlenberg Hospital, the Plainfield Rescue Squad has been truly struggling to stay afloat. The Rescue Squad's ability to maintain staffing levels - not to mention their vehicles - will determine how quickly they can respond in an emergency. And a timely response can be the difference between life or death for city residents.

With this in mind, the Van Wyck Brooks Historic District has donated $3,000 to the Rescue Squad. District officers donated the check in person on May 3, 2010. (Pictured, from left, are Secretary Jan Jasper, Treasurer Clarence McGhie, and President Lamont Blowe presenting the check to Jenny Purnell, Director of the Rescue Squad.)

We urge all Plainfielders to support the Rescue Squad by donating whatever you can afford. Your life - or that of someone you love - could depend on it.

Donations can be mailed to the Plainfield Rescue Squad, 700 W. Seventh St., Plainfield, or P.O. Box 707, Plainfield. You may also drop off donations at The Pillars Bed and Breakfast. Or you can donate through Paypal at www.paypal.com. The ID is plainfieldrescuesquad@yahoo.com. Go to "Send Money,'' enter the amount, click "Personal,'' then "gift'' and send.