All Talk &

No Action

I was reading the Amboy Guardian article “The Blame Game” April 17, 2019 about raising taxes. It must have been a finger pointing event that night. Lots of talk and no action. So, let’s get to the point: the only way to stop all this crying about the Mayor that I know of is if people with living brain cells RECALL the Mayor. Mayors are easy to find – that’s if they’re not handpicked by a political party or the City Council Members pick one that will play ball. Perth Amboy had its ups and downs and very soon Doomsday will come if the concerned VOTERS don’t get their act together in time to wake up.

Orlando “Wildman” Perez

Edison Job Corps

This past Thursday, April 18th, I had the pleasure of attending the quarterly Edison Job Corps Community Relations Luncheon, whose theme was “Partners in Progress.” This awesome event was as expected, filled to near capacity with guests, honorees, students and staff, etc.

Julia Ruth Gibson, Edison Job Corps Business Community Liaison did a phenomenal job in putting this popular event together and executing the agenda extremely well. She is a dedicated professional fulfilling the mission of Job Corps, and passionate in doing so. The tremendous success of these and other events is a true testament to the enormous strengths and skills she brings to the center.

A huge number of area vendors were present, which attracted attendees to engage in business and networking opportunities for all 

Julia Gibson welcomed everyone, and introduced Lonnie Hall, Edison Job Corps Center Director, who vibrantly spoke from the heart, whose passion was quite evident, and praised the business community for their support of the program and in their students by providing internships and employment opportunities following successful completion of the specific course of study.

A most welcomed surprise guest from Utah, John Pederson, Senior Vice President at Management & Training Corporation, was introduced by Director Hall. SVP Pederson praised Director Hall, the Job Corps administration, staff and students for their outstanding success.

Job Corps Alumnus Dr. Barrett-Layne was the featured guest speaker, whose life journey and tremendous accomplishments amidst struggles, was well received and awe inspiring to students and attendees. Dr. Barrett-Layne currently serves as Adjunct Professor at Touro College and Grand Canyon University.

An awards ceremony followed, praising individuals for their long-standing, unwavering commitment to the Edison Job Corps.

A superb lunch buffet prepared and served by the culinary arts students included everything from salad, appetizers, entrees and sides, dessert and beverages. The students also served plated appetizers during the pre-program networking.

Photographer Raymond Royster was present and delivered high quality, 5 x 7 color photos for everyone.

A campus tour was provided at the conclusion of the event.

High praise is for the Edison Job Corps program, Director Hall, Ms. Gibson, faculty and staff, and its determined students who vow to become successful in their chosen career path.

The Edison Job Corps is probably a ‘hidden gem,’ unknown to many Middlesex County businesses and residents. 

Best regards,

George N. Petrakakis