Mayors Message - 40 4.23.2020 As of this message, Springfield has 1 new case of COVID-19, totaling 181 positive tests and 15 deaths. Union County has 451 new cases of COVID-19, and 34 new deaths, totaling 10,935 positive tests and 515 deaths. The State of New Jersey currently has 4,427 new cases of COVID-19 and 307 new deaths, bringing the state total number to 99,989 positive tests, and 5,368 COVID-19 related deaths. Assistance for Entrepreneurs - The New Jersey Economic Development Authority has launched a program to encourage investments in Garden State entrepreneurs. The $5 million program offers loan guarantees for investors that provide loans to entrepreneurs impacted by COVID-19. For eligibility and application, see the following link: https://faq.business.nj.gov/en/articles/3835239-how-do-i-apply-to-the-njeda-entrepreneur-guarantee-program- applications-now-open Department of Labor - a new web portal was created that allows New Jersey residents to contact the Department of Labor directly. This is a helpful tool for residents who have questions about their applications. To submit a message, residents must go to www.myunemployment.nj.gov and follow the instructions below: On the top navigation, scroll to the right for “Need Help” and unveil the drop down menu Choose Send an Email Choose Email: Submit a message through our new online form. Follow the prompts Get Counted - New Jersey residents can respond to the 2020 Census to help ensure the state gets its fair share of federal funding, including money for hospitals and first responders. Raising Money, Jersey Style - Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi headlined the list of New Jersey stars who performed from their homes during last night's virtual 'Jersey 4 Jersey' concert to raise money for the New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund. The show aired on several local television and radio stations. The fund announced last week it had raised more than $18 million in its first three weeks. (nj.com) For a recap of the show, see the following link: .https://www.nj.com/coronavirus/2020/04/highlights-from-the-jersey-4-jersey-coronavirus-relief-fund-show- jam-packed-with-local-talent.html Stay safe! .