The Monmouth County Board of Freeholders, lead by Director Lillian Burry and Deputy Director Robert Clifton, amended the proposed budget to eliminate a potential property tax increase, according to the Asbury Park Press.
Burry said, "Tax troubles for the people of New Jersey may be far from over, but one thing will
be certain, Monmouth County won't be part of the problem.''
Thank you Lillian and Rob.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Tune in to Conservatives with Attiutude's BlogTalkRadio
Tune in to CWA's BlogTalk Radio show this evening at 8PM, or listen to the replay.
Michael Illions will be interviewing The Soprano State authors Bob Ingle and Sandy McClure.
Time permitting, I will be joining the show to discuss Adam Puharic's disgraceful comments about the mentally impaired and genetically disordered.
You can call into the show yourself at 646-716-7229.
Michael Illions will be interviewing The Soprano State authors Bob Ingle and Sandy McClure.
Time permitting, I will be joining the show to discuss Adam Puharic's disgraceful comments about the mentally impaired and genetically disordered.
You can call into the show yourself at 646-716-7229.
Puharic's disgraceful comments warrant his resignation
If Dan Gallic's blog posting of a cleaver retelling of the ant and the grasshopper fable are enough to warrant him losing a job, then certainly Adam Puharic's orignial comments poking fun at those inflicted with mental retardation and a weak gene pool require the same.
Puharic's comments are far more offensive than Gallic's, especially considering Adam's background and personal experiance.
Puharic made his name in large part as the co-founder of Michael's Feat, a charity that was created in memory of Puharic’s newborn son, Michael, who lost his life to a serious chromosome disorder.
Puharic owes those with mental and genetic disorders a heartfelt apology. He owes the Monmouth GOP his resignation.
Puharic's comments are far more offensive than Gallic's, especially considering Adam's background and personal experiance.
Puharic made his name in large part as the co-founder of Michael's Feat, a charity that was created in memory of Puharic’s newborn son, Michael, who lost his life to a serious chromosome disorder.
Puharic owes those with mental and genetic disorders a heartfelt apology. He owes the Monmouth GOP his resignation.
Gallic resigns job over blog flap
The Trentonian is reporting that former Monmouth GOP Executive Director Dan Gallic has resigned his position as economic development coordinator in Robbinsville because of a joke, that some found racially offensive, that he posted on Conservatives with Attitude. Gallic has also resigned as a contributor to Conservatives with Attitude.
The Trentonian article reporting Gallic's resignation also repeated the joke.
Dan was not accused of breaking any laws or doing anything improper. In my opinion, the joke is not racists, and the controversy about it is what is most offensive.
The Trentonian article reporting Gallic's resignation also repeated the joke.
Dan was not accused of breaking any laws or doing anything improper. In my opinion, the joke is not racists, and the controversy about it is what is most offensive.
Steve Lonegan on the Corzine Budget
LONEGAN: CORZINE SHOULD PROPOSE REAL CUTS, NOT A “PHONY FREEZE”
-- Codey did the same “cuts” three years ago.
BOGOTA -- Americans for Prosperity New Jersey Director Steve Lonegan called Governor Jon Corzine’s proposed budget a “phony freeze” similar to that done by Governor Codey in 2006 and said the state needs real spending reductions to bring New Jersey back.
“New Jersey state spending has doubled in ten years, gone up fifty percent since McGreevey was elected and even with the alleged reductions will be nearly twenty percent higher than it was when Governor Corzine took office,” Lonegan said. “The Governor’s proposal does nothing to reduce New Jersey’s out of control tax burden, nothing to reduce New Jersey’s ridiculous welfare state and nothing to cap the outrageous pensions and other giveaways to public employees.”
Lonegan said that Corzine’s proposal was deficient and should be corrected with the following steps.
· Immediate layoffs, not “early retirement” schemes that keep employees in the pension system.
· Elimination of “Project Labor Agreements” that drive up the cost of state, county and local government construction projects.
· Stopping billions of dollars in debt already authorized but not yet borrowed.
· Elimination of departments including State, Community Affairs, the Comptroller and the Public Advocate.
· Repeal the 9 percent pension hike passed in 2001.
· End state municipal aid to so-called “Abbott” districts that already receive virtually unlimited school aid.
· Raise the retirement age for public employees to 65 and end longevity bonuses.
· The new war on small towns with less than 10,000 residents must be rejected. These towns are the most efficiently run in the state and Corzine’s proposal attempts to eliminate them.
· Stopping the use of “rebate” programs as income redistribution schemes, instead of looking at permanent tax relief.
· Crack down on out of control pensions, lavish medical benefits and order new and recent employees into 401(k) programs.
· Sunset all state regulations for a complete review.
· Initiative and Referendum to allow taxpayers to take charge of state government from an out-of-control legislature.
· End binding arbitration for public employees, including police officers.
· Stopping subsidies to New Jersey Network and selling the licenses and facilities to the highest bidder.
· Eliminate all unfunded state mandates on county and local governments.
· Announce he will veto the Paid Family Leave legislation that creates a new $130 Million payroll tax and a new open-ended entitlement program.
· Roll back new garbage taxes, the $10 television tax, the $500 S-Corporation tax and other new taxes passed under the McGreevey-Codey-Corzine administration.
· Oppose any new taxes or toll increases.
“New Jersey has the highest state sales tax in the country, the highest property taxes, the worst income taxes and the worst small business climate in the nation,” Lonegan said. “Corzine’s budget is the same phony ‘freeze’ Dick Codey put in before the last election and you can bet that if Corzine somehow gets re-elected in 2009 that the days of big spending, higher taxes, out-of-control debt and more regulations will be back and worse than ever.”
-- Codey did the same “cuts” three years ago.
BOGOTA -- Americans for Prosperity New Jersey Director Steve Lonegan called Governor Jon Corzine’s proposed budget a “phony freeze” similar to that done by Governor Codey in 2006 and said the state needs real spending reductions to bring New Jersey back.
“New Jersey state spending has doubled in ten years, gone up fifty percent since McGreevey was elected and even with the alleged reductions will be nearly twenty percent higher than it was when Governor Corzine took office,” Lonegan said. “The Governor’s proposal does nothing to reduce New Jersey’s out of control tax burden, nothing to reduce New Jersey’s ridiculous welfare state and nothing to cap the outrageous pensions and other giveaways to public employees.”
Lonegan said that Corzine’s proposal was deficient and should be corrected with the following steps.
· Immediate layoffs, not “early retirement” schemes that keep employees in the pension system.
· Elimination of “Project Labor Agreements” that drive up the cost of state, county and local government construction projects.
· Stopping billions of dollars in debt already authorized but not yet borrowed.
· Elimination of departments including State, Community Affairs, the Comptroller and the Public Advocate.
· Repeal the 9 percent pension hike passed in 2001.
· End state municipal aid to so-called “Abbott” districts that already receive virtually unlimited school aid.
· Raise the retirement age for public employees to 65 and end longevity bonuses.
· The new war on small towns with less than 10,000 residents must be rejected. These towns are the most efficiently run in the state and Corzine’s proposal attempts to eliminate them.
· Stopping the use of “rebate” programs as income redistribution schemes, instead of looking at permanent tax relief.
· Crack down on out of control pensions, lavish medical benefits and order new and recent employees into 401(k) programs.
· Sunset all state regulations for a complete review.
· Initiative and Referendum to allow taxpayers to take charge of state government from an out-of-control legislature.
· End binding arbitration for public employees, including police officers.
· Stopping subsidies to New Jersey Network and selling the licenses and facilities to the highest bidder.
· Eliminate all unfunded state mandates on county and local governments.
· Announce he will veto the Paid Family Leave legislation that creates a new $130 Million payroll tax and a new open-ended entitlement program.
· Roll back new garbage taxes, the $10 television tax, the $500 S-Corporation tax and other new taxes passed under the McGreevey-Codey-Corzine administration.
· Oppose any new taxes or toll increases.
“New Jersey has the highest state sales tax in the country, the highest property taxes, the worst income taxes and the worst small business climate in the nation,” Lonegan said. “Corzine’s budget is the same phony ‘freeze’ Dick Codey put in before the last election and you can bet that if Corzine somehow gets re-elected in 2009 that the days of big spending, higher taxes, out-of-control debt and more regulations will be back and worse than ever.”
Quote of the day
"Finally, blogs are a form of mental retardation because those who post and reply only allow similar opinions to perpetuate on their sites - thereby reinforcing an already weak gene pool" ~ Monmouth GOP Chairman Adam Puharic to the News Transcript
Adam Puharic has been a contributor to MoreMonmouthMusings.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
It's Curley and DiMaso going to the convention
Monmouth GOP Chairman Adam Puharic announced tonight that Red Bank Councilman John Curley and Holmdel Mayor Serena DiMaso will compete at the March 26 convention for the GOP nomination to run for the Freeholder seat currently held by Bill Barham.
The screening committee results on Saturday were 16 votes for Curley with DiMaso and Steven Walsh of Freehold being tied at 14 each.
Puharic said that Walsh is a rising star, but that Curley and DiMaso have more experience.
Congratulations to Chairman Puharic. While I favor a more open process, this decision is more democratic than many have feared would have occurred.
Good luck to both candidates. May there be a spirited and lively campaign that increases participation amongst the county committee and Republican clubs throughout the county.
The screening committee results on Saturday were 16 votes for Curley with DiMaso and Steven Walsh of Freehold being tied at 14 each.
Puharic said that Walsh is a rising star, but that Curley and DiMaso have more experience.
Congratulations to Chairman Puharic. While I favor a more open process, this decision is more democratic than many have feared would have occurred.
Good luck to both candidates. May there be a spirited and lively campaign that increases participation amongst the county committee and Republican clubs throughout the county.
Reduce the County Budget
The Monmouth County Board of Freeholders will vote on next year's budget on Thursday night. The proposed budget increases the tax levy by $8.1 million.
The Republican Freeholders should take the advice of the Citizens Budget Review Committee and reduce the overall budget.
While the proposed increase may be modest, taxpayers have had enough and are in an angry mood. A modest decrease is warranted. A decrease would be good policy and good politics.
The Republican Freeholders should take the advice of the Citizens Budget Review Committee and reduce the overall budget.
While the proposed increase may be modest, taxpayers have had enough and are in an angry mood. A modest decrease is warranted. A decrease would be good policy and good politics.
Competitive Enterprise Institute: Where's the global warming, Al?
Global Temperatures Don't Justify Energy Restrictions
Washington, D.C., February 25, 2008—CEI’s new online video spot, Where’s the Warming?, challenges global warming alarmists to justify their calls for restrictions on energy use. Carbon dioxide from man's energy use has continued to increase in the atmosphere in recent years, but recent studies show that average global temperatures have not.
The two-minute video, which can be viewed on YouTube, pays tribute to the famous “Where’s the Beef?” ads of two decades ago. It contrasts clips from Al Gore’s movie, An Inconvenient Truth, with actual temperature data.
The basic alarmist contention is that we must restrict affordable energy use because CO2 is the most important determinant of global temperatures. But this year’s unexpectedly cold winter and, more importantly, the temperature trends of the last few years tell a different story. There has been practically no global warming in the last five years or more. Even prominent climate modelers have admitted natural factors are coming into play.
CEI Senior Fellow Iain Murray commented, "Temperatures ought to be at a peak, but instead they've held steady for at least the last five years and by some accounts, they've actually dropped. The case for urgent action to restrict energy use is getting weaker, not stronger. Given that affordable energy is the best hope of escape from poverty for billions around the globe, politicians need to ask themselves "where's the beef" before pushing their anti-energy policies."
View the Where’s the Warming? video
View CEI’s video collection on YouTube.
See also:
· Global Warming? It’s the Coldest Winter in Decades
· Data on steadily rising CO2
· Data on global surface temperatures
CEI is a non-profit, non-partisan public policy group dedicated to the principles of free enterprise and limited government. For more information about CEI, please visit our website at http://www.cei.org
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
More Screening Committee News
Adam Puharic told the Asbury Park Press that the Freeholder selection was a three way tie between John Curley, Serena DiMaso and Steven Walsh. MoreMonmouthMusings has gotten conflicting reports, one that is consistent with Puharic's report of a tie, and another that Curley was the favorite of the vast majority of screening committee members, and that DiMaso and Walsh were tied for second.
According to the press, Puharic said that he is empowered by the party's by-laws to make a selection in the event of a tie. There are no party by-laws and Puharic's resolution creating the rules for this year's screening process did not address the possibility of a tie.
For other offices, according to the APP and Poitickernj, Anne Estabrook was awarded the party's endorsement for US Senate. Keyport attorney Robert E. McLeod was awarded the endorsement for US Congress in the 6th district (Frank Pallone's district) and Holmdell Committeeman Alan Bateman was awarded the endorsement for US Congress in the 12th district (Rush Holt's)
Apparently, the convention will not have a say in the selection of the Congressional nominations. Puharic's resolution of January 2, 2008 said, "The screening committee shall recommend no more than two (2) persons per vacant office to be forwarded to the County Convention."
The games have officially begun.
According to the press, Puharic said that he is empowered by the party's by-laws to make a selection in the event of a tie. There are no party by-laws and Puharic's resolution creating the rules for this year's screening process did not address the possibility of a tie.
For other offices, according to the APP and Poitickernj, Anne Estabrook was awarded the party's endorsement for US Senate. Keyport attorney Robert E. McLeod was awarded the endorsement for US Congress in the 6th district (Frank Pallone's district) and Holmdell Committeeman Alan Bateman was awarded the endorsement for US Congress in the 12th district (Rush Holt's)
Apparently, the convention will not have a say in the selection of the Congressional nominations. Puharic's resolution of January 2, 2008 said, "The screening committee shall recommend no more than two (2) persons per vacant office to be forwarded to the County Convention."
The games have officially begun.
3 way split
Reports out of Freehold are that the screening committee vote for the Freeholder candidates resulted in a three way tie between Serena DiMaso, John Curley and Steven Walsh.
Other reports are that Curley won by a large margin with DiMaso and Walsh being tied for the second spot.
Chairman Adam Puharic has previously ruled that two candidates for the vacancy would be presented to the convention.
It is unknown what will happen now. The plan is to announce a decision Monday night at the Lincoln Day Dinner.
Screening interviews complete
Freeholder prospects Serena DiMaso, John Curley, Steven Walsh and Russ Bohlin met with the GOP screening committee this morning. Eileen Kean was not present.
No word yet on which two will be forwarded to the convention.
No word yet on which two will be forwarded to the convention.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Your tax dollars at work
I just witnessed 3 trucks plowing water on Route 36 in Middletown. At least today is not a state holiday. The contracters are only getting $120 per hour.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
5 to screen for GOP Freeholder nod
The Asbury Park Press is reporting that Freehold Township Zoning Board member Steven
Walsh and former Howell Planning Board member Russ Bohlin have joined Holmdel Mayor Serena DiMaso, Red Bank Councilman John Curley, and Eileen Kean of Neptune in seeking the GOP nomination for the Freeholder seat being vacated by Bill Barham.
Chairman Adam Puharic has ruled that only two candidates for each vacancy will be passed by the screening committee to appear before the convention for selection.
Walsh and former Howell Planning Board member Russ Bohlin have joined Holmdel Mayor Serena DiMaso, Red Bank Councilman John Curley, and Eileen Kean of Neptune in seeking the GOP nomination for the Freeholder seat being vacated by Bill Barham.
Chairman Adam Puharic has ruled that only two candidates for each vacancy will be passed by the screening committee to appear before the convention for selection.
Kidd Rasta siting
Kidd Rasta was sited at the Grove this evening shouting at female patrons in the parking lot on his way into Brooks Brothers.
The Seinfeld candidate
By Lightshines...
With all this exposing of the presidential candidates, Feist thought she'd chime in with this monologue from the "Seinfeld" candidate.
One Two Three Four
I told you I don’t sniff no more
Cocaine, bad nights
That was what my youth was for
I bring you hope right to your door
Of programs, nothing
Do you want some more?
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
Sweet talk, faint heart
You can tell I’m pretty smart
Cozy and bold
But on horse I didn’t start
Those clueless hopes
Who have stars in their eyes
I’m too scared to own up
To one little lie
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
One, two, three, four, five, six, nine, and ten
Money’s buying back the love you had for them
One, two, three, four, five, six, nine, and ten
Money’s buying back the love you had for them
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
I couldn't find a MIDI of the song, for those of you who like to sing along. Here's a music video for those of you (like me) who never heard of Feist or the song:
Feist Lyrics
With all this exposing of the presidential candidates, Feist thought she'd chime in with this monologue from the "Seinfeld" candidate.
One Two Three Four
I told you I don’t sniff no more
Cocaine, bad nights
That was what my youth was for
I bring you hope right to your door
Of programs, nothing
Do you want some more?
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
Sweet talk, faint heart
You can tell I’m pretty smart
Cozy and bold
But on horse I didn’t start
Those clueless hopes
Who have stars in their eyes
I’m too scared to own up
To one little lie
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
One, two, three, four, five, six, nine, and ten
Money’s buying back the love you had for them
One, two, three, four, five, six, nine, and ten
Money’s buying back the love you had for them
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
Oh, oh, oh
I’m stealing your heart
Oh, oh, oh
“Nothing” is getting me far
I couldn't find a MIDI of the song, for those of you who like to sing along. Here's a music video for those of you (like me) who never heard of Feist or the song:
Feist Lyrics
A message from the McCain campaign
Well, here we go. We could expect attacks were coming; as soon as John McCain appeared to be locking up the Republican nomination, the liberal establishment and their allies at the New York Times have gone on the attack. Today's front-page New York Times story is particularly disgusting - an un-sourced hit-and-run smear campaign designed to distract from the issues at stake in this election. With John McCain leading a number of general-election polls against Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, the New York Times knew the time to attack was now, and they did. We will not allow their scurrilous attack against a great American hero to stand.
The New York Times -- the newspaper that gave MoveOn.org a sweetheart deal to run advertisements attacking General Petraeus -- has shown once again that it cannot exercise good journalistic judgment when it comes to dealing with a conservative Republican. We better get ready for more of the Democrats' attacks over the coming months as the Democrats pick their nominee, MoveOn.org starts spending their unlimited soft money, and the liberal media tosses standards aside in an attempt to stop our momentum. We need your help to counteract the liberal establishment and fight back against the New York Times by making an immediate contribution today.
John McCain has a 24-year record of serving our country with honor and integrity. He has led the charge to limit the money and influence of the special interests in politics and stomp out corruption. His life and his record prove just how preposterous the smear by the New York Times really is.
Objective observers are viewing this article exactly as they should - as a sleazy smear attack from a liberal newspaper against the conservative Republican frontrunner. Sean Hannity said, after reading the article three times, "It was so full of innuendo and so lacking of fact, and so involved in smear, I came to the conclusion that the goal here was to bring up a 20-year-old scandal." Washington attorney Bob Bennett, who was the Democrat counsel during the Keating investigation, said, "This is a real hit job." Joe Scarborough called the allegations "outrageous." Even pundit Alan Colmes -- not known for his conservative leanings -- concludes "this is a non-story."
Yet, it is there, right on the front page of the New York Times. It is now dominating the cable news coverage. We can only expect these sorts of baseless attacks to continue as we move into the general election cycle.
Rick Davis, Campaign Manager
Soprano State: Selling Out! Pun intended.
The Soprano State by Bob Ingle and Sandy McClure is a hit.
Yesterday the book was #40 in nationwide sales at Barnes and Noble and the book seller had only 100 copies left in their warehouses nationwide.
Amazon sold out and is back ordering.
Ingle reports that the Bridgewater and Princeton book signings were standing room only.
Ingle and McClure will be in Freehold at Borders Friday the 22nd at 7pm. There will be books available.
Yesterday the book was #40 in nationwide sales at Barnes and Noble and the book seller had only 100 copies left in their warehouses nationwide.
Amazon sold out and is back ordering.
Ingle reports that the Bridgewater and Princeton book signings were standing room only.
Ingle and McClure will be in Freehold at Borders Friday the 22nd at 7pm. There will be books available.
Curley upbeat about prospects
Red Bank Councilman is upbeat about his prospects of passing the screening committee and being able to present his Freeholder candidacy to the county committee convention on March 26.
"I've been getting a lot of positive feedback and encouragement," said Curley, "Adam Puharic has been a gentleman and seems impressed that I have been elected twice in a Democratic town."
Curley, is seeking to be Freeholder Director Lillian Burry's running mate. Serena DiMaso and Eileen Kean have also submitted letters of intent to run. Curley thinks the committee will think twice about running two women for Freeholder and that his gender will might him get the nomination. But he's not taking anything for granted. He mailed a letter and resume to all municipal chairs and held a meet and greet for chairs this week in Sea Bright.
Curley acknowledged concerns about the fact that he has switched partys in the past. "I'm a Republican, philosphically and practically." He said he ran his first race in Red Bank as a Democrat because he wanted to contribute to his town and that there was no Republican team in Red Bank at the time. "Ed McKenna's Democrats didn't support me in that first race. I worked hard and knocked on every door in town."
The deadline for candidates to submit a letter of intent is today at 5pm. The screening committee meets on Saturday morning.
Photo credit: RedBankGreen
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Committee to Stop the Toll Hikes
Governor Corzine has his 54 member blue noose panel, Franks and Friends that has endorsed his 800% toll hike scheme.
Americans for Prosperity's Steve Lonegan is recruiting business leaders, community activists, religious leaders and elected officials willing to serve on the Campaign Committee to Stop the Toll Hike.
If you would like to participate on the Committee email Steve at steven.lonegan@afphq.org
Americans for Prosperity's Steve Lonegan is recruiting business leaders, community activists, religious leaders and elected officials willing to serve on the Campaign Committee to Stop the Toll Hike.
If you would like to participate on the Committee email Steve at steven.lonegan@afphq.org
Corzine's approval rating tanks
Perhaps the good news for Governor Corzine is that his approval ratings are still higher than those of President Bush and Congress. But that is unlikely to last after he makes his budget proposal cutting aid to municipalities, property tax rebates, college aid and closing hospitals next week. He's already committed to wasting more money on schools and raising judges salaries. The state workers unions and the legislature will still get their free ride.
Nothing that any Governor or Legislature does is going to work until someone has the leadership and fortitude to tackle school funding. The executive and representative branches of government need to take their constitutional authority back from the Supreme Court that has overstepped its bounds for over 30 years.
In 1973 the court ruled that the school funding system relies too heavily on property taxes and that poor school districts are discriminated against. Today, school funding still relies too heavily on property taxes, except in the 31 "Abbott Districts" that are funded by the state income tax and Abbott spending per pupil is twice or more that of non-Abbott districts.
The Constitution charges the Legislature with providing a through and efficient system of education. The court as usurped that authority and created a mess.
New Jersey's government will stay a mess until this is corrected and an equitable school funding system is created, regardless of which trough swillers squeal about it.
Nothing that any Governor or Legislature does is going to work until someone has the leadership and fortitude to tackle school funding. The executive and representative branches of government need to take their constitutional authority back from the Supreme Court that has overstepped its bounds for over 30 years.
In 1973 the court ruled that the school funding system relies too heavily on property taxes and that poor school districts are discriminated against. Today, school funding still relies too heavily on property taxes, except in the 31 "Abbott Districts" that are funded by the state income tax and Abbott spending per pupil is twice or more that of non-Abbott districts.
The Constitution charges the Legislature with providing a through and efficient system of education. The court as usurped that authority and created a mess.
New Jersey's government will stay a mess until this is corrected and an equitable school funding system is created, regardless of which trough swillers squeal about it.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
NJ Supremes give Corzine time for School Construction spending.
The Star Ledger reports that the NJ Supreme Court rejected a demands from Newark, Elizabeth and other "needy communities" that the State immediately fund more school construction. Instead, the Court accepted the Corzine administration's promise that it would ask the legislature to authorize $2.5 billion for school construction this month. The Court said the needy communities could re-open their case if the $2.5 billion doesn't come through.
Can someone please show me where in the State Constitution it says that the Court can compel the Governor or the legislature to spend money on anything? It must be there and I keep missing it.
Can someone please show me where in the State Constitution it says that the Court can compel the Governor or the legislature to spend money on anything? It must be there and I keep missing it.
Only in New Jersey
This story is ripe for the The Soprano State sequel.
The judge assigned to hear the BPU whistle blower case over the hidden $80 million BPU slush fund owns shares in a company that has gotten grants from the BPU.
The judge assigned to hear the BPU whistle blower case over the hidden $80 million BPU slush fund owns shares in a company that has gotten grants from the BPU.
Deadline for letters of intent is Thursday
Update:
I've heard the convention has been rescheduled to Wednesday, March 26. Still at the Port Monmouth VFW.
Eileen Kean, Esq is a candidate for the Freeholder nomination. Kean is a the Director of Government Affairs for the Medical Society of New Jersey. Previously, she has been a Washington lobbyist for the Republican leaning firm of Bond and Company. While a Washington lobbyist, Kean supported mostly Republican candidates. However, like Anne Estabrook, she has donated to prominent Democrats, including Frank Pallone and Steve Rothman.
The deadline for candidates wishing to screen for the nominations of U.S. Senate, Congress and Freeholder to file their letters of intent in Thursday the 21st at 5pm.
So far Serena DiMaso of Holmdel and John Curley of Red Bank have filed for the Freeholder vacancy. They both did so before the original deadline of February 8th. There are unconfirmed reports that another candidate has filed. Chairman Adam Puharic has ruled that only two candidates for each office will be passed by his screening committee to appear before the convention for the nomination.
We've come a long way from the open convention rules of 2005 and 2006 when there were several candidates mounting spirited campaigns throughout the county.
I predict that there will be three candidates for the Freeholder vacancy, and that DiMaso and the yet to be named candidate will be selected to go on to the convention. I don't see Puharic taking the chance that an independent thinker like Curley will get the nomination. If Curley wants to be a Freeholder, his best shot is to withdraw his letter of intent and file petitions for the primary. RedBankGreen reported that Curley said he would seek re-election as a Red Bank Councilman if he doesn not win the party's Freeholder endorsement.
Freeholder Director Lillian Burry will not be challenged at the convention.
The convention will be on March 29 at the VFW in Port Monmouth. We've also come a long way from conventions a Branches, Battleground Country Club and Brookdale.
I've heard the convention has been rescheduled to Wednesday, March 26. Still at the Port Monmouth VFW.
Eileen Kean, Esq is a candidate for the Freeholder nomination. Kean is a the Director of Government Affairs for the Medical Society of New Jersey. Previously, she has been a Washington lobbyist for the Republican leaning firm of Bond and Company. While a Washington lobbyist, Kean supported mostly Republican candidates. However, like Anne Estabrook, she has donated to prominent Democrats, including Frank Pallone and Steve Rothman.
The deadline for candidates wishing to screen for the nominations of U.S. Senate, Congress and Freeholder to file their letters of intent in Thursday the 21st at 5pm.
So far Serena DiMaso of Holmdel and John Curley of Red Bank have filed for the Freeholder vacancy. They both did so before the original deadline of February 8th. There are unconfirmed reports that another candidate has filed. Chairman Adam Puharic has ruled that only two candidates for each office will be passed by his screening committee to appear before the convention for the nomination.
We've come a long way from the open convention rules of 2005 and 2006 when there were several candidates mounting spirited campaigns throughout the county.
I predict that there will be three candidates for the Freeholder vacancy, and that DiMaso and the yet to be named candidate will be selected to go on to the convention. I don't see Puharic taking the chance that an independent thinker like Curley will get the nomination. If Curley wants to be a Freeholder, his best shot is to withdraw his letter of intent and file petitions for the primary. RedBankGreen reported that Curley said he would seek re-election as a Red Bank Councilman if he doesn not win the party's Freeholder endorsement.
Freeholder Director Lillian Burry will not be challenged at the convention.
The convention will be on March 29 at the VFW in Port Monmouth. We've also come a long way from conventions a Branches, Battleground Country Club and Brookdale.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Good news out of Bergen County
Wally Edge reports that first time in five years, the Bergen County Republican Organization will start the campaign cycle with no debt.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the Monmouth GOP, where the rent is several months past due.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the Monmouth GOP, where the rent is several months past due.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
The Soprano State
The Soprano State by Bob Ingle and Sandy McClure will either inspire New Jersey residents to clean up our government or head for the exits while the tolls are still affordable. Leaving would be easier.
Ingle and McClure chronicle corruption at all levels of New Jersey's government from the Byrne administration through the present day fiascos of the Corzine administration. If Governor Corzine really believes, as he has said, that our fiscal crisis can't be solved by weeding out waste, fraud and abuse, he needs to read this book.
With both familiar accounts and never before published material, The Soprano State, would be funny if it were not about us.
Monmouth County is featured prominently, as is most of the state. It is amazing that Ingle and McClure were able to squeeze so much sleaze into 300 pages.
This book is a must read for all who live in and love New Jersey. It goes on sale Tuesday.
Thank you to Bob Ingle for the advance copy. Even though you ruined my weekend, this work is critically important to all who make our homes and operate our businesses in New Jersey.
Deep and painful cuts
Corzine is warning of deep and painful "cuts" to tax rebates, closing some state parks, reducing hours at motor vehicle offices and slicing aid to colleges, hospitals and towns, just to keep spending at this year's level. This, according to The Star Ledger.
Cut even more Jon, and bring spending down to last year's level.
Cut even more Jon, and bring spending down to last year's level.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
The Courier's web site is back online
After a hiatus caused by a massive hack attack last fall, The Courier has re-launced its website.
Check it out.
Check it out.
Toll road scheme the most expensive option
An Asbury Park Press analysis concludes that Corzine's toll road scheme is the most expensive of the options he offered to solve the states fiscal problems, for a typical New Jersey family that now pays $300 per year in tolls.
Corzine's option of cutting $5 billion in spending is the best option.
Corzine's option of cutting $5 billion in spending is the best option.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Kyrillos not running for U.S Senate
State Senator Joe Kyrillos issued the following statement this morning regarding the U.S. Senate race:
"I am flattered and grateful for the encouragement of some good friends and allies.
Susan and I considered a race and have made a family decision not to pursue it.
Each of the announced Republican candidates would be a far more effective Senator than the incumbent. "
Would you like fries with that?
Blogger "Barry Goldwater" has an outstanding post about New Jersey's socio/economic state. Must read!
I guess he didn't hear us at the pig and pony shows
Governor Corzine welcomes the opportunity to consider you for a state tax audit and to belittle your recommendations for spending cuts for the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget.
If you would like to send your recommendation(s) to Governor Corzine, and to be told that you just don't understand how bad things are, that your property taxes are going to sky rocket, that college tuitions are going to rise, and that mental hosiptals will close causing idiots with the right to vote to roam the streets, unless he gets his way, please take a minute to complete the following form.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
I'd be happy to run against Frank Pallone. In 2012.
I considered the question and looked at Pallone's record. He can be beat. It would probably take running against him for 4 years straight and $3 million, but it could be done.
Then, whether it was me or another Republican, the junior member of the delegation from the minority party would have their district scrapped after the next census. No thank you.
I informed the member of the county GOP Board of Directors who called me of my decision and made a counter offer that could be a "game-changing event."
Let's see what happens.
Mrs. Seward is relieved.
Then, whether it was me or another Republican, the junior member of the delegation from the minority party would have their district scrapped after the next census. No thank you.
I informed the member of the county GOP Board of Directors who called me of my decision and made a counter offer that could be a "game-changing event."
Let's see what happens.
Mrs. Seward is relieved.
One primary down, one to go. The June primary could be where the action is.
New Jersey had its first meaningful Presidential primary in years last week. There was little drama as Senator John McCain easily won New Jersey’s delegates to the Republican National Convention and Senator Hillary Clinton easily won the delegates to the Democratic Convention.
The June primary is shaping up to be dramatic, at least for the Republicans, statewide and especially in Monmouth County. In addition to electing a President this year, New Jersey voters will also elect a United States Senator. Democratic Senator Frank Lautenberg, who is older than the Highlands-Sea Bright Bridge, is running for re-election.
So far the Republican candidates for the Senatorial nomination are Anne Estabrook from Spring Lake, a real estate developer with lots of money and the former Chairwoman of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, State Senator “Jersey Joe” Pennacchio, a dentist from Morris County who had a catchy jingle in campaign last fall that you might have heard on the radio, and Murray Sabrin of Fort Lee, a professor at Ramapo State College, Chairman of the New Jersey for Ron Paul campaign and a one time Libertarian candidate for Governor. Despite Lautenberg’s low poll numbers, no one except the Republican candidates themselves think any of them stand a chance against Lautenberg. This race was set to be a snoozer.
Last week, on the same day that Mitt Romney withdrew from the race for the GOP Presidential nomination, Monmouth GOP Chairman Adam Puharic suggested that his mentor, State Senator Joe Kyrillos, enter the U.S. Senate race. “If Joe Kyrillos got in the race, it would be a game-changing event for New Jersey politics,” Puharic told Politickernj.com, a website that caters to political insiders and junkies. Kyrillos, who is much younger than the Highlands-Sea Bright Bridge, was the chairman of the Romney campaign in NJ.
Puharic is right. If Kyrillos gets in the race, it will change the primary game statewide, and especially in Monmouth County. If he can raise significant money, Kyrillos has a better chance against Lautenberg than the three already in the race.
At this late stage, Kyrillos will probably only get in if he can convince Anne Estabrook to bow out in his favor. Word on the street is that Pennacchio is in the race till the end, and that his campaign is looking for Freeholder candidates to join him on his ballot line, especially in Monmouth County. Sabrin will be in the race till the end, but will probably not be a factor.
The Monmouth GOP remains divided, as it has been since 2005 when Freeholder Ed Stominski was thrown off the ticket for re-election in a meeting of the party elite, including Kyrillos, at Judith Stanley-Coleman’s farm. Since then the party has been rocked by scandal and infighting, is on its third chairman and has seen its control of the county government slip from a 5-0 Freeholder majority to 3-2.
The seats of Freeholders Bill Barham and Lillian Burry are on the ballot this year, and a contested primary was likely as neither incumbent wants to run with the other. However, Barham bowed out last week, making a contested Freeholder primary less likely.
Less likely, but still probable. If Kyrillos doesn’t run for Senate, Puharic will probably award the party line to Estabrook. Freeholder candidates who don’t win the party line may be lured to join Pennacchio, whose campaign is being managed by for Monmouth GOP Executive Director Dan Gallic. If Kyrillos does run, and Estabrook stays in the race, there could be three Freeholder tickets in the primary. Estabrook’s campaign manager Mark Duffy has run several campaigns in Monmouth County. He can offer Freeholder candidates the best funded campaign.
Of course, it is possible that the Monmouth GOP will unite behind Kyrillos and there will be a boring uncontested primary for Freeholder. That will take a great deal of smoozing and soothing on Kyrillos’s part. His protégé Puharic flunked Dale Carnegie and is not up to that task on uniting the party at this point.
Whatever happens, it will be more entertaining than reality TV.
Also published in The Courier
The June primary is shaping up to be dramatic, at least for the Republicans, statewide and especially in Monmouth County. In addition to electing a President this year, New Jersey voters will also elect a United States Senator. Democratic Senator Frank Lautenberg, who is older than the Highlands-Sea Bright Bridge, is running for re-election.
So far the Republican candidates for the Senatorial nomination are Anne Estabrook from Spring Lake, a real estate developer with lots of money and the former Chairwoman of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, State Senator “Jersey Joe” Pennacchio, a dentist from Morris County who had a catchy jingle in campaign last fall that you might have heard on the radio, and Murray Sabrin of Fort Lee, a professor at Ramapo State College, Chairman of the New Jersey for Ron Paul campaign and a one time Libertarian candidate for Governor. Despite Lautenberg’s low poll numbers, no one except the Republican candidates themselves think any of them stand a chance against Lautenberg. This race was set to be a snoozer.
Last week, on the same day that Mitt Romney withdrew from the race for the GOP Presidential nomination, Monmouth GOP Chairman Adam Puharic suggested that his mentor, State Senator Joe Kyrillos, enter the U.S. Senate race. “If Joe Kyrillos got in the race, it would be a game-changing event for New Jersey politics,” Puharic told Politickernj.com, a website that caters to political insiders and junkies. Kyrillos, who is much younger than the Highlands-Sea Bright Bridge, was the chairman of the Romney campaign in NJ.
Puharic is right. If Kyrillos gets in the race, it will change the primary game statewide, and especially in Monmouth County. If he can raise significant money, Kyrillos has a better chance against Lautenberg than the three already in the race.
At this late stage, Kyrillos will probably only get in if he can convince Anne Estabrook to bow out in his favor. Word on the street is that Pennacchio is in the race till the end, and that his campaign is looking for Freeholder candidates to join him on his ballot line, especially in Monmouth County. Sabrin will be in the race till the end, but will probably not be a factor.
The Monmouth GOP remains divided, as it has been since 2005 when Freeholder Ed Stominski was thrown off the ticket for re-election in a meeting of the party elite, including Kyrillos, at Judith Stanley-Coleman’s farm. Since then the party has been rocked by scandal and infighting, is on its third chairman and has seen its control of the county government slip from a 5-0 Freeholder majority to 3-2.
The seats of Freeholders Bill Barham and Lillian Burry are on the ballot this year, and a contested primary was likely as neither incumbent wants to run with the other. However, Barham bowed out last week, making a contested Freeholder primary less likely.
Less likely, but still probable. If Kyrillos doesn’t run for Senate, Puharic will probably award the party line to Estabrook. Freeholder candidates who don’t win the party line may be lured to join Pennacchio, whose campaign is being managed by for Monmouth GOP Executive Director Dan Gallic. If Kyrillos does run, and Estabrook stays in the race, there could be three Freeholder tickets in the primary. Estabrook’s campaign manager Mark Duffy has run several campaigns in Monmouth County. He can offer Freeholder candidates the best funded campaign.
Of course, it is possible that the Monmouth GOP will unite behind Kyrillos and there will be a boring uncontested primary for Freeholder. That will take a great deal of smoozing and soothing on Kyrillos’s part. His protégé Puharic flunked Dale Carnegie and is not up to that task on uniting the party at this point.
Whatever happens, it will be more entertaining than reality TV.
Also published in The Courier
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Should I run against Frank Pallone?
I just got a phone call from a member of the Monmouth GOP Board of Directors asking if I would consider running against Frank Pallone.
I played the message back for my employees and they went on and on about how what a great guy Pallone is.
It's nice to be loved.
I played the message back for my employees and they went on and on about how what a great guy Pallone is.
It's nice to be loved.
STOP THE PRESSES!
Jim Purcell has something good to say about the Middletown Township Committee.
This reminds me of a joke that lands in my email box every now and again.
This reminds me of a joke that lands in my email box every now and again.
He doesn't understand the plan
Jon Corzine is in a hissy fit over Senator Frank Lautenberg coming out against the toll road plan.
The Star Ledger reports that Corzine will have a hard time fundraising for Lautenberg now.
The Star Ledger reports that Corzine will have a hard time fundraising for Lautenberg now.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
So, if the toll road scheme is dead,why don't I feel like celebrating?**
In the Lobby reports that Senator Barbara Buono (D Middlesex) told NJ 101.5 that:
If Buono and Senators Adler and Van Drew keep their word, and if all 17 Republican Senators keep their word, Corzine's plan is dead.
Now we have to worry about Plan B, whatever that might be.
** Because I'm reading The Soprano State and I'm worried that what comes next might actually be worse than Corzine's plan. I know that sounds unbelievable, but this book is filled with unbelievable tales of schemes that actually happened, and that we are still paying for.
"I cannot support the plan as is and I think that there has got to be another alternative ... I just think his (Corzine's) solution is just too Draconian for people to bear."
If Buono and Senators Adler and Van Drew keep their word, and if all 17 Republican Senators keep their word, Corzine's plan is dead.
Now we have to worry about Plan B, whatever that might be.
** Because I'm reading The Soprano State and I'm worried that what comes next might actually be worse than Corzine's plan. I know that sounds unbelievable, but this book is filled with unbelievable tales of schemes that actually happened, and that we are still paying for.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Will he or won't he? Should he or shouldn't he?
UPDATE: Conservatives with Attidude's Sharon Soon reports that county chairs are encouraging a Kyrillos run.
So what about Joe Kyrillos running for US Senate? Should he or shouldn't he? Does he have a better chance of defeating Frank Lautenberg than Anne Estabrook, Joe Pennacchio or Murray Sabrin? Can any of the four beat Lautenberg?
Is Kyrillos too late getting into the campaign that Estabrook and Pennacchio have been at for 6 months? Can he raise $10-$20 million dollars?
Would Estabrook or Pennacchio drop out and support Kyrillos if he gets in?
Which county chairman besides Adam Puharic would support a Kyrillos bid?
How would a Kyrillos candidacy impact local races in the primary, in the general? In Monmouth County and beyond?
What do you think? Comments are open.
So what about Joe Kyrillos running for US Senate? Should he or shouldn't he? Does he have a better chance of defeating Frank Lautenberg than Anne Estabrook, Joe Pennacchio or Murray Sabrin? Can any of the four beat Lautenberg?
Is Kyrillos too late getting into the campaign that Estabrook and Pennacchio have been at for 6 months? Can he raise $10-$20 million dollars?
Would Estabrook or Pennacchio drop out and support Kyrillos if he gets in?
Which county chairman besides Adam Puharic would support a Kyrillos bid?
How would a Kyrillos candidacy impact local races in the primary, in the general? In Monmouth County and beyond?
What do you think? Comments are open.
Is the toll road scheme dead yet?
Red Jersey's Eric Sedler has a great post calling for Democratic Senators Jim Whelan and Shirley Turner to keep their campaign promises to defeat the toll road scheme. With two Democrats already on the record as opposing the scheme, Whelan and Turner opposing the scheme kills it with one vote to spare.
In the Lobby's "Jonny B. Goode" has a great post exposing the myths and telling the truth about New Jersey's financial condiditon.
What kind of deals will Corzine be attempting to make to salvage his plan? Can Whelan or Turner be bought?
In the Lobby's "Jonny B. Goode" has a great post exposing the myths and telling the truth about New Jersey's financial condiditon.
What kind of deals will Corzine be attempting to make to salvage his plan? Can Whelan or Turner be bought?
Sunday, February 10, 2008
The Pig and Pony Shows are not working. Corzine tries the blogosphere
Jon Corzine on NJ Voices. Make sure you read the comments. So far they are respectful, well reasoned and give the Governor workable options.
Corzine's disingenuousness knows no bounds. As Bob Ingle points out Corzine wants to pay down $16 billion in debt with the proceeds of the toll road scheme so that he can turn around and borrow another $12 billion more.
Corzine argues that 46% of the new tolls will be paid by out of state residents. His projections are wrong. Out of state enterprises will figure out how to avoid our toll roads. This will devastate the NJ Jersey economy.
Use of our toll roads will become the equivalent of flying first class, except there will be no mileage programs to cover the occasional treat.
The Governor should do what he needs to do to get by on a $30 billion state budget. Renegotiate union contracts, lay off workers or both.
Find the waste and cut it. Find the corruption and prosecute it.
Put the Supreme Court back in its place. The Constitution gives the legislature the power to decide how to spend money. Not the Court. Let's amend the constitution to make this clearer if we have to. Or have a constitutional convention. It is crazy to have the Court determining educational policy and spending.
Make all borrowing, not just borrowing with revenue to support it, subject to voter approval. It is the people's revenue and the people's debt.
The cost of government is too high in New Jersey. Corzine's plans don't do anything to reduce the cost of government. His plans increase the cost of government and increase the overall cost of living even more.
Yes, there will be pain. There is already pain. The pain has been caused by the increasing cost of government. It should be cured by reducing the cost, and size of government.
Corzine's disingenuousness knows no bounds. As Bob Ingle points out Corzine wants to pay down $16 billion in debt with the proceeds of the toll road scheme so that he can turn around and borrow another $12 billion more.
Corzine argues that 46% of the new tolls will be paid by out of state residents. His projections are wrong. Out of state enterprises will figure out how to avoid our toll roads. This will devastate the NJ Jersey economy.
Use of our toll roads will become the equivalent of flying first class, except there will be no mileage programs to cover the occasional treat.
The Governor should do what he needs to do to get by on a $30 billion state budget. Renegotiate union contracts, lay off workers or both.
Find the waste and cut it. Find the corruption and prosecute it.
Put the Supreme Court back in its place. The Constitution gives the legislature the power to decide how to spend money. Not the Court. Let's amend the constitution to make this clearer if we have to. Or have a constitutional convention. It is crazy to have the Court determining educational policy and spending.
Make all borrowing, not just borrowing with revenue to support it, subject to voter approval. It is the people's revenue and the people's debt.
The cost of government is too high in New Jersey. Corzine's plans don't do anything to reduce the cost of government. His plans increase the cost of government and increase the overall cost of living even more.
Yes, there will be pain. There is already pain. The pain has been caused by the increasing cost of government. It should be cured by reducing the cost, and size of government.
800% increase
DaTruthSquad has a good analysis of what an 800% increase looks like:
Here are some figures to ponder: Would you pay ...
$12 for 1 slice of pizza?
$16 for 1 loaf of bread?
$32 for 1 small latte?
$9 for 1 small value-meal fast-food french fry?
$64 to use da Outerbridge Crossing?
$80 for that 1-way bus trip from Manalapan to NYC?
$280 for 1 mezzanine-level seat at Shea Stadium?
Here are some figures to ponder: Would you pay ...
$12 for 1 slice of pizza?
$16 for 1 loaf of bread?
$32 for 1 small latte?
$9 for 1 small value-meal fast-food french fry?
$64 to use da Outerbridge Crossing?
$80 for that 1-way bus trip from Manalapan to NYC?
$280 for 1 mezzanine-level seat at Shea Stadium?
Saturday, February 09, 2008
A Lightshines production
Sergeant Pepper has been to New Jersey and has been wondering where he can get whatever the Governor is on. In the meantime, he dedicated this song to our esteemed Guvnor.
Well thirty five years ago today,
Max Yasgur died and went away,
Woodstock nation’s lost its style,
We’ve sold out for a painted smile,
So may I introduce to you,
The act you've known in recent years,
Guvnor Corzine’s Lonely hearts club band!
We're Guvnor Corzine’s Lonely hearts club band, we hope you will enjoy the show,
We're Guvnor Corzine’s Lonely hearts club band, sit back cause everything must go,
We're Guvnor Corzine’s Lonely, Guvnor Corzine’s Lonely,
Guvnor Corzine’s lonely hearts club band!
It’s wonderful to be here,
but the Guvnor feels alone,
You're such a lovely audience we'd like to take your home from you, we'd love to take your home!
I don't really wanna stop the show,
But I see you’ve let the flying pigs go,
Now the guvnor’s gonna sing a song,
And he'd like you all to sing along,
So may I introduce to you,
The man who’s earning all the jeers,
And Guvnor Corzine’s lonely hearts club band!
Corzine's toll road scheme is on life support.
Corzine's toll road scheme is all but dead. With Republicans solidly against it, and prominent Democrats either against it outright or signaling that it needs to be modified, it is all but over.
Blue Jersey's Juan Melli says there is a lack of will in the legislature to make the reforms needed to restore fiscal integrity to NJ government, and that a Constitutional Convention is necessary. Juan may be right, but is there enough will or fear on the part of the legislature to allow a Constitution Convention? Previous proposals for a convention would have limited the scope of the convention's authority such that any reforms would have been meaningless.
Corzine, who said he didn't get into public service to be a scrooge or a number cruncher needs to realize that he must be just that to deal with Santa's credit card balance racked up over the last decade. He may want to be Santa, but Whitman and McGreevey already played those parts. It's time to pay the bills without refinancing the house.
Corzine's Plan B needs to reduce the size(not the growth, but the size) of state government and break the unions' choke hold on the people of the State of New Jersey. If he has heard anything at all from the people at the road show, he should know that the public will support him if he makes a radical change in direction and that the pigs who have lived in Trenton all these years will squeal but will come around and support a radical reduction in the size of government rather than face slaughter.
If Corzine really wants to make historic changes to New Jersey, he needs to follow a Mike Bloomberg model of fiscal integrity, not a Carla Katz or Goldman Sachs model of expanding government and debt.
Pigs will fly if he does this.
Blue Jersey's Juan Melli says there is a lack of will in the legislature to make the reforms needed to restore fiscal integrity to NJ government, and that a Constitutional Convention is necessary. Juan may be right, but is there enough will or fear on the part of the legislature to allow a Constitution Convention? Previous proposals for a convention would have limited the scope of the convention's authority such that any reforms would have been meaningless.
Corzine, who said he didn't get into public service to be a scrooge or a number cruncher needs to realize that he must be just that to deal with Santa's credit card balance racked up over the last decade. He may want to be Santa, but Whitman and McGreevey already played those parts. It's time to pay the bills without refinancing the house.
Corzine's Plan B needs to reduce the size(not the growth, but the size) of state government and break the unions' choke hold on the people of the State of New Jersey. If he has heard anything at all from the people at the road show, he should know that the public will support him if he makes a radical change in direction and that the pigs who have lived in Trenton all these years will squeal but will come around and support a radical reduction in the size of government rather than face slaughter.
If Corzine really wants to make historic changes to New Jersey, he needs to follow a Mike Bloomberg model of fiscal integrity, not a Carla Katz or Goldman Sachs model of expanding government and debt.
Pigs will fly if he does this.
Friday, February 08, 2008
Sunny Optimism
Deadline Extended for Candidate Letters of Intent
Dear fellow Republicans:
It is with great personal regret that I announce Freeholder William C. Barham's decision not to seek re-election in 2008. Freeholder Barham inherited a role within a county wracked by scandal in the days preceding the federal investigations known as Operation Bid Rig.
Throughout all of the pain, recriminations, accusations, and distrust that resulted during this breakdown of our county government, Bill Barham never, ever lost his sunny optimism that Monmouth County is indeed the greatest place in New Jersey to live and work.
When the Republican Party fractured and splintered into competing interest groups following Chairman Neimann's decision not to seek re-election in 2006, Bill Barham encouraged all to stick together -- one Republican Party -- not a series of special interests.
Throughout my two years as Chairman, Bill Barham has proved supportive, encouraging, and optimistic that Republicans would persevere because we are the right party for Monmouth County. His faith in our party never wavered. And beyond partisan politics, Bill Barham loves Monmouth County, and sacrificed much to keep it moving forward.
I respectfully request that all Republicans take the opportunity to seek out Freeholder Barham, and say thank you for his service.
In light of this news, the deadline for submission of letters of intent for candidates seeking the Monmouth County Republican endorsement for all offices is extended to 5pm, Thursday, February 21.
Adam Puharic
Chairman
Monmouth County Republican Committee
Dear fellow Republicans:
It is with great personal regret that I announce Freeholder William C. Barham's decision not to seek re-election in 2008. Freeholder Barham inherited a role within a county wracked by scandal in the days preceding the federal investigations known as Operation Bid Rig.
Throughout all of the pain, recriminations, accusations, and distrust that resulted during this breakdown of our county government, Bill Barham never, ever lost his sunny optimism that Monmouth County is indeed the greatest place in New Jersey to live and work.
When the Republican Party fractured and splintered into competing interest groups following Chairman Neimann's decision not to seek re-election in 2006, Bill Barham encouraged all to stick together -- one Republican Party -- not a series of special interests.
Throughout my two years as Chairman, Bill Barham has proved supportive, encouraging, and optimistic that Republicans would persevere because we are the right party for Monmouth County. His faith in our party never wavered. And beyond partisan politics, Bill Barham loves Monmouth County, and sacrificed much to keep it moving forward.
I respectfully request that all Republicans take the opportunity to seek out Freeholder Barham, and say thank you for his service.
In light of this news, the deadline for submission of letters of intent for candidates seeking the Monmouth County Republican endorsement for all offices is extended to 5pm, Thursday, February 21.
Adam Puharic
Chairman
Monmouth County Republican Committee
Barham not running. Maybe. The fun is about to start.
Freeholder Bill Barham told the Asbury Park Press he will not seek re-election, unless he changes his mind.
In light of the news, Chairman Adam Puharic has extended the deadline for candidates to submit letters of intent to run by two weeks. The deadline had been today. Serena DiMaso of Holmdel and John Curley of Red Bank have submitted letters. Freeholder Lillian Burry is running for re-election.
Assuming that Barham does not change his mind, this will be the fourth consecutive year that an incumbent Republican Freeholder was not a candidate in November. Ed Stominski was denied the party line by Chairman Bill Dowd in 2005 and lost in the primary to Rob Clifton. Ted Narozanik chose not to run rather than submit to Chairman Fred Nieman's screening committee in 2006. Andrew Lucas of Manalapan won a heated convention over the Mayor of Howell but lost to Democrat Barbara McMarrow. Last year, Puharic forced Anna Little off the ballot. Little turned down the Democratic nomination and declined to run in the Republican primary. Jeff Cantor of Marlboro won the nomination for Little's seat and lost to John D'Amico in the general election. Little was elected Mayor of Highlands.
Puharic praised Barham's service to the APP. Behind the scenes, Puharic has been looking for candidates and referring to Barham as a bonehead.
It is nice to agree with the Chairman now and then.
With Barham out of the race, a contested primary for his seat is less likely but still possible. Burry has made no secret of the fact that she would not run with Barham. She has considered Curley and Mel Hood of Neptune as possible running mates.
DiMaso has been closely aligned with Puharic, but broke with him recently over his policy of letting only the Mitt Romney campaign have access to county party resources in the Presidential primary race. DiMaso was the county coordinator of Women for Rudy.
While less likely, a contested primary is still very much a distinct possiblity. The US Senate campaign of "Jersey Joe" Pennachio is considering running a Freeholder slate on its line in the June primary. The Pennachio campaign is staffed by former Monmouth GOP Executive Director Dan Gallic and Chris Pardone, formerly of Senator Joe Kyrillos's state Senate campaign and the NJ for Romney campaign.
With Kyrillos now a possible US Senate candidate, the situation is very fluid. If Kyrillos does run, Puharic will very likely award him the Monmouth County line in the primary. Anne Estabrook, who has been considered the front runner for the US Senate nomination is a Monmouth County resident. Her campaign manager Mark Duffy has Monmouth County roots from running the Peters, Lucas and Little campaign in 2006. It would not surprise me to see Burry choose to run on Estabrook's line.
In light of the news, Chairman Adam Puharic has extended the deadline for candidates to submit letters of intent to run by two weeks. The deadline had been today. Serena DiMaso of Holmdel and John Curley of Red Bank have submitted letters. Freeholder Lillian Burry is running for re-election.
Assuming that Barham does not change his mind, this will be the fourth consecutive year that an incumbent Republican Freeholder was not a candidate in November. Ed Stominski was denied the party line by Chairman Bill Dowd in 2005 and lost in the primary to Rob Clifton. Ted Narozanik chose not to run rather than submit to Chairman Fred Nieman's screening committee in 2006. Andrew Lucas of Manalapan won a heated convention over the Mayor of Howell but lost to Democrat Barbara McMarrow. Last year, Puharic forced Anna Little off the ballot. Little turned down the Democratic nomination and declined to run in the Republican primary. Jeff Cantor of Marlboro won the nomination for Little's seat and lost to John D'Amico in the general election. Little was elected Mayor of Highlands.
Puharic praised Barham's service to the APP. Behind the scenes, Puharic has been looking for candidates and referring to Barham as a bonehead.
It is nice to agree with the Chairman now and then.
With Barham out of the race, a contested primary for his seat is less likely but still possible. Burry has made no secret of the fact that she would not run with Barham. She has considered Curley and Mel Hood of Neptune as possible running mates.
DiMaso has been closely aligned with Puharic, but broke with him recently over his policy of letting only the Mitt Romney campaign have access to county party resources in the Presidential primary race. DiMaso was the county coordinator of Women for Rudy.
While less likely, a contested primary is still very much a distinct possiblity. The US Senate campaign of "Jersey Joe" Pennachio is considering running a Freeholder slate on its line in the June primary. The Pennachio campaign is staffed by former Monmouth GOP Executive Director Dan Gallic and Chris Pardone, formerly of Senator Joe Kyrillos's state Senate campaign and the NJ for Romney campaign.
With Kyrillos now a possible US Senate candidate, the situation is very fluid. If Kyrillos does run, Puharic will very likely award him the Monmouth County line in the primary. Anne Estabrook, who has been considered the front runner for the US Senate nomination is a Monmouth County resident. Her campaign manager Mark Duffy has Monmouth County roots from running the Peters, Lucas and Little campaign in 2006. It would not surprise me to see Burry choose to run on Estabrook's line.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Meanwhile in Monmouth County
Friday the 8th is Chairman Adam Puharic's deadline for candidates for US Senate, Congress, and Freeholder to who are seeking the party's endorsement to submit a letter of intention.
Puharic floated State Senator Joe Kyrillos's name as a candidate for US Senate today. Kyrillos has not been available for comment. However, given the relationship between Joe and Adam, it is highly unlikely that Adam did this without Joe's blessing and encouragement.
Kyrillos has vastly improved his standing with the conservative wing of the NJ Republican party by chairing Mitt Romney's campaign here. He has definitely widened his base and could be a contender.
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Puharic floated State Senator Joe Kyrillos's name as a candidate for US Senate today. Kyrillos has not been available for comment. However, given the relationship between Joe and Adam, it is highly unlikely that Adam did this without Joe's blessing and encouragement.
Kyrillos has vastly improved his standing with the conservative wing of the NJ Republican party by chairing Mitt Romney's campaign here. He has definitely widened his base and could be a contender.
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Mitt Quits
Mitt Romney is "stepping aside" in the race for the Republican nomination for President of the United States of America.
Romney is making the right move and the right time. His supporters should now rally around John McCain, as Rudy Giuliani's supporters did last week.
Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul should also step aside. It is time for the Republican party to unite while the Democrats continue to duke it out.
Romney is giving an outstanding speech at CPAC. It is viewable on FoxNews.com
Romney is making the right move and the right time. His supporters should now rally around John McCain, as Rudy Giuliani's supporters did last week.
Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul should also step aside. It is time for the Republican party to unite while the Democrats continue to duke it out.
Romney is giving an outstanding speech at CPAC. It is viewable on FoxNews.com
Anne Coulter is full of shit. Russ Limbaugh needs to take a pill. James Dobson: That's a log in your eye, not John McCain's thumb
"The conservative critique of McCain escalated Tuesday when Dobson released a statement saying: "I am convinced Senator McCain is not a conservative, and in fact has gone out of his way to stick his thumb in the eyes of those who are." Conservative author and commentator Ann Coulter has said she'd vote and campaign for Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton if McCain is the GOP nominee. Limbaugh has said a McCain nomination would destroy the Republican party." ~ Associated Press
John McCain is going to be the Republican nominee for President of the United States. The fundamentalist wing of the Republican party needs to stop the weeping and gnashing of teeth and stand united with the rest of the party behind McCain.
Here's why:
1) Mitt Romney is not a conservative and does not deserve their support anyway. Romney is a pragmatic panderer. He might have stood a chance with his flip flops in the pre-YouTube era, but he has no chance to win the general election now.
2) The next President of the United States will very likely appoint a majority to the United States Supreme Court that will sit for two decades or more. If Clinton or Obama are elected, United States Supreme court will resemble the New Jersey Supreme Court in it's judicial activism.
3) If McCain is elected, the Republicans may very well pick up a Senate seat they will desperately need. Joe Lieberman's.
The Supreme Court situation makes this election critically important. The Court will impact that fabric of our republic for generations. Roe vs. Wade aside, we cannot afford an activist court. Fundamentalists Republicans who might righteously consider sitting out this election or voting for Clinton in the hopes of coming back with a "real" conservative in four years, should look to New Jersey where the Republican establishment employed such a strategy in the 2001 gubernatorial election of Brett Schundler vs Jim McGreevey. That didn't work out too well.
John McCain was not my first choice. I especially disagree with him on the first amendment and campaign finance reform. There is a much better chance of a Supreme Court overturning his campaign finance reforms if he becomes President.
Regarding immigration, I'm sorry but my fundamentalist friends are foolish at best. Intellectually dishonest is more likely. The 12 million or so illegal immigrants who are here got here because we, as a nation, let them in. We invited them in. The situation has become a problem and now we need to manage it. There is no way that 12 million or so illegals are going to be shipped home. It is just not going to happen. We now need to control the borders and stop inviting them in. We need to give those who are here an equitable method to become productive members of our society and not a drain on our resources. It is time for the fundamentalists to stop the demagoguery on this issue and get to work on the problem.
Regarding taxes, McCain has been right far more than he has been wrong. He is right now.
Regarding spending, McCain has been right far more often than the rest of the party. The spending orgy over the last 7 seven years has done more to damage the party and our economy than any position McCain has taken. Deficits do matter.
John McCain can beat either Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama. He will be the Republican nominee. The conservative fundamentalists need to rally behind him.
The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce does not represent New Jersey business
By endorsing Governor Corzine’s fiscal restructuring plan and calling for the elimination of property tax relief, The New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce has demonstrated that its does not represent New Jersey business interests.
As a leader of a regional chamber, the Northern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce, I was initially angry and dismayed that the State Chamber would endorse Governor Corzine’s plan to raise tolls by 800% on the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike and the Atlantic City Expressway, and that they would do so even before Corzine released the details of his plan. That they called for the State to abandon property tax relief as one of their conditions for supporting Corzine’s plan convinced me that the State Chamber very much a part of the problem in Trenton.
The State Chamber’s website states that its goal is “to represent the varying interests of our members and to help them clear burdensome regulatory hurdles that stifle growth.” When I looked to see who the State Chamber’s members were, I realized that by endorsing Corzine’s plan, they were in fact being true to their goal. The State Chamber’s board of directors is dominated by the management of insurance companies, utilities and banks, all of whom are dependent of government regulation for their success and to thwart competition in their industries, and by large real estate developers who are dependent on government approvals to build their projects. In other words, special interests.
The State Chamber, which is best known for its annual “Walk to Washington” party on Amtrak where the government elite and wannabees schmooze with the special interest business elites and wannabees, does not represent the interests of the majority of New Jersey businesses that struggle in an increasingly unfriendly environment to compete in the market place, provide livable wages and benefits to their employees, and pay taxes, fees and utility bills.
The public needs to know that there is a difference between their local and regional Chambers of Commerce and the State Chamber. Local and regional chambers are comprised of your neighborhood business, large and small. They promote their towns and regions, provide networking and educational opportunities and advocate for business interests with local government representatives. Local and regional chambers, many of which have been dues paying members of the State Chamber, have relied on the State Chamber to represent our interests in Trenton. We now need to look elsewhere for statewide support and representation.
The Governor’s plan to raise tolls by 800% plus inflation might be good for insurance companies, gas and electric and phone companies, but it is not good for the majority of New Jersey business, their employees and customers.
New Jersey’s government needs to do what businesses do during difficult times or when they’ve made poor decisions. Cut expenses, do more with less, reduce payroll, as difficult as that can be. They need to provide superior service for competitive taxes and fees. Otherwise businesses and citizens will continue to go elsewhere.
As a leader of a regional chamber, the Northern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce, I was initially angry and dismayed that the State Chamber would endorse Governor Corzine’s plan to raise tolls by 800% on the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike and the Atlantic City Expressway, and that they would do so even before Corzine released the details of his plan. That they called for the State to abandon property tax relief as one of their conditions for supporting Corzine’s plan convinced me that the State Chamber very much a part of the problem in Trenton.
The State Chamber’s website states that its goal is “to represent the varying interests of our members and to help them clear burdensome regulatory hurdles that stifle growth.” When I looked to see who the State Chamber’s members were, I realized that by endorsing Corzine’s plan, they were in fact being true to their goal. The State Chamber’s board of directors is dominated by the management of insurance companies, utilities and banks, all of whom are dependent of government regulation for their success and to thwart competition in their industries, and by large real estate developers who are dependent on government approvals to build their projects. In other words, special interests.
The State Chamber, which is best known for its annual “Walk to Washington” party on Amtrak where the government elite and wannabees schmooze with the special interest business elites and wannabees, does not represent the interests of the majority of New Jersey businesses that struggle in an increasingly unfriendly environment to compete in the market place, provide livable wages and benefits to their employees, and pay taxes, fees and utility bills.
The public needs to know that there is a difference between their local and regional Chambers of Commerce and the State Chamber. Local and regional chambers are comprised of your neighborhood business, large and small. They promote their towns and regions, provide networking and educational opportunities and advocate for business interests with local government representatives. Local and regional chambers, many of which have been dues paying members of the State Chamber, have relied on the State Chamber to represent our interests in Trenton. We now need to look elsewhere for statewide support and representation.
The Governor’s plan to raise tolls by 800% plus inflation might be good for insurance companies, gas and electric and phone companies, but it is not good for the majority of New Jersey business, their employees and customers.
New Jersey’s government needs to do what businesses do during difficult times or when they’ve made poor decisions. Cut expenses, do more with less, reduce payroll, as difficult as that can be. They need to provide superior service for competitive taxes and fees. Otherwise businesses and citizens will continue to go elsewhere.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
US Senate campaigns focus on Asset Monetization Scheme
In the race to be the next US Senator appointed by Jon Corzine, Rob Andrews and Rush Holt have both endorsed Corzine's massive borrowing and toll raising scheme. Can Frank Pallone be far behind? With Frank Lautenberg's tooth getting longer every day, and Bob Menendez being mentioned as a Vice Presidential candidate, it is possible that Corzine will have the opportunity to appoint two US Senators before his term is up.
On the Republican side of the isle, Anne Estabrook, a Republican candidate for the nomination to run for Frank Lautenberg's Senate seat, has started a anti-toll road scheme website, NoNewTolls.com Estabrook is a former Chairwoman of the NJ State Chamber of Commerce. Her stand against the toll increases is significant in that the State Chamber has endorsed Corzine's plan and called for cutting back property tax relief.
State Senator "Jersey Joe" Pennacchio, also a Republican candidate for Lautenberg's seat, issued a press release calling for the resignation of the State Chamber's president. The press release, which didn't mention the president's name (Joan Verplanck), also called on businesses to resign from the Chamber and demand their dues money back.
On the Republican side of the isle, Anne Estabrook, a Republican candidate for the nomination to run for Frank Lautenberg's Senate seat, has started a anti-toll road scheme website, NoNewTolls.com Estabrook is a former Chairwoman of the NJ State Chamber of Commerce. Her stand against the toll increases is significant in that the State Chamber has endorsed Corzine's plan and called for cutting back property tax relief.
State Senator "Jersey Joe" Pennacchio, also a Republican candidate for Lautenberg's seat, issued a press release calling for the resignation of the State Chamber's president. The press release, which didn't mention the president's name (Joan Verplanck), also called on businesses to resign from the Chamber and demand their dues money back.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Pigs Fly in Ocean County: Corzine faces tough crowd
"The crowd cheered wildly when he (Corzine) mentioned that one alternative to his plan would be to slash up to $5 billion from the budget- an option the governor himself has ruled out."
"I still don't think the governor is listening to the people. He hears suggestions and says it won't work"
Here are some resources for Monmouth County residents to read in preparation of Monday's meeting in Marlboro:
"Asset Monetization" questions Corzine doesn't want to answer. Americans for Prosperity-NJ
Mr. Governor, please answer this... APP editorial 2/1/08.
No alternative to toll hikes? Here are a few for starters APP editorial 2/1/08
Lonegan coming to Monmouth County
Steve Lonegan of Americans for Prosperity is coming to Monmouth County on Monday February 4 for Corzine's 800% toll increase sales pitch.
Lonegan is holding an information session about Corzine's plan at Romeo's Restaurant & Pizzeria, 8 South Main St (Rt 79), Marlboro, 5pm-6pm, followed by a press conference at 6pm. You are invited.
Corzine's sales pitch is at Marlboro High School, 7pm-9pm.
Lonegan is holding an information session about Corzine's plan at Romeo's Restaurant & Pizzeria, 8 South Main St (Rt 79), Marlboro, 5pm-6pm, followed by a press conference at 6pm. You are invited.
Corzine's sales pitch is at Marlboro High School, 7pm-9pm.
Funny Man: Not
The Record's Herb Jackson reports on the jokes Corzine told to the NJ State Chamber dinner in Washington this week:
"It's clear God had a plan for me," Corzine told the crowd of more than 1,000 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel. "Some people like the plan. Some don't."
"After the last few weeks of town meetings … it really builds my confidence to think about people who would pay $275 for such a trip. It'll cost you that to take the Turnpike soon."
"Contrary to popular belief, I don't actually print money in my basement and we only make so much by forcing Steve Lonegan to pay bail."
What happened to the writers stike?
Watch out for a increase in the alcohol tax. Jackson reports that a bartender at the Wardman said, "The New Jersey people drink more than anybody else all year."
"It's clear God had a plan for me," Corzine told the crowd of more than 1,000 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel. "Some people like the plan. Some don't."
"After the last few weeks of town meetings … it really builds my confidence to think about people who would pay $275 for such a trip. It'll cost you that to take the Turnpike soon."
"Contrary to popular belief, I don't actually print money in my basement and we only make so much by forcing Steve Lonegan to pay bail."
What happened to the writers stike?
Watch out for a increase in the alcohol tax. Jackson reports that a bartender at the Wardman said, "The New Jersey people drink more than anybody else all year."
Friday, February 01, 2008
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