Showing posts with label Law. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Law. Show all posts
And In London, Cameron Cracks Down
I like the strong, unequivocal approach that British Prime Minister David Cameron is taking as he goes after the gangs of hooligans who are trying to take over the streets of London. Thousands have been arrested so far and Cameron promises that more will be rounded up.
Cameron is zeroing in on what he calls a "moral crisis" in Britain.
The Prime Minister has declared:
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Cameron is zeroing in on what he calls a "moral crisis" in Britain.
The Prime Minister has declared:
Bravo To Mayor Nutter For His Words, Actions
As many of you know, I was out of town for quite some time and did not have a chance to be here for much of what led up to the Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter's stirring speech to the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church on August 7. In fact, I was still out of town when this speech was delivered.
But I've since had a chance to watch and listen to the full half-hour-plus of the Mayor's remarks and I have to say that I strongly support everything he said. I like the way that he spoke directly, forcefully, and from the heart. So, I've included a major video segment of his remarks here so that you might savor it.
In my mind (and I hope the Mayor takes no offense when I say this) Nutter came across almost as Christieesque. At first blush it seemed as if he took a page from the Big Guy across the river.
But, in truth I feel the Mayor was totally himself. Uniquely Nutter. These were his words spoken with true grit. And that made me feel good.
I'm glad the Mayor got this off his chest. I'm pleased that he spoke up. He ought to continue to speak bluntly and act firmly.
I myself made it a special point to go into Center City this past weekend -- On Friday (for lunch) and again on Saturday and Sunday (for dinner). On two of the three days I was joined by my wife, my children and others.
We all wanted to send a good, clear, strong message: We support the new city curfew and the vigilant enforcement of the law and we're not going to let anyone take the city away from us; we're not going to let anyone push us off the streets of a great, vibrant city; we're not going to be intimidated by a bunch of young punks. And we're not going to settle for lame excuses for lawlessness.
We also wanted to patronize Center City merchants during this critical time and make sure that the commerce and well-being of the city went on without interruption.
We found the streets of Center City Philadelphia to be bright, well-protected and alive with shoppers, diners and responsible residents and citizens.
We invite you to join them -- and us -- in Center City!
Philly's Mann Music Center Robbed
Fox 29 in Philly is reporting that armed robbers have hit the Mann Music Center in Fairmount Park. The Mann is the city's premier summer music venue and plays host to the world's finest classical musicians as well as the Philadelphia Orchestra and more mainstream music attractions.
Fox repoorts that two suspects held up the Mann Center today, and may have made off with a large amount of cash -- as much as $100,000.
Philadelphia police have confirmed the incident to Fox 29 at 51st & Parkside Aves.
In recent years there have been complaints about insufficient police protection at the Mann and some patrons have complained about a lack of well-lit parking and assistance in exiting the the Mann grounds via automobile after dark.
This summer, center-city Philadelphia has also been plagued by flash mob attacks.
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Fox repoorts that two suspects held up the Mann Center today, and may have made off with a large amount of cash -- as much as $100,000.
Philadelphia police have confirmed the incident to Fox 29 at 51st & Parkside Aves.
In recent years there have been complaints about insufficient police protection at the Mann and some patrons have complained about a lack of well-lit parking and assistance in exiting the the Mann grounds via automobile after dark.
This summer, center-city Philadelphia has also been plagued by flash mob attacks.
More Philly Flash Mob Attacks: This MUST Stop
Last night there were two more Philly flash mob attacks in center city.
One occurred near 15th & Chestnut and the other was near Walnut and Juniper. In both cases innocent people were attacked. In one case a man was severely injured. One of the incidents involved an 11-year-old perpetrator. At least one young person was part of both attacks.
Once again pedestrians in center city were victimized and the evening was disrupted by these dangerous and unconscionable attacks. One attack is one too many but these attacks have occurred far too often.
The city must crack down on this brazen lawlessness.
EVERY responsible organization in the city must speak up and demand action. Groups such at the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Center City Proprietors Association, the Center City District, the Tourist and Convention Bureau, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, condo owners associations, neighborhood groups and similar organizations should band together and speak with one voice. And they should demand action now. They should also insist that these young hooligans be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
This situation simply CANNOT be tolerated any longer.
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One occurred near 15th & Chestnut and the other was near Walnut and Juniper. In both cases innocent people were attacked. In one case a man was severely injured. One of the incidents involved an 11-year-old perpetrator. At least one young person was part of both attacks.
Once again pedestrians in center city were victimized and the evening was disrupted by these dangerous and unconscionable attacks. One attack is one too many but these attacks have occurred far too often.
The city must crack down on this brazen lawlessness.
EVERY responsible organization in the city must speak up and demand action. Groups such at the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Center City Proprietors Association, the Center City District, the Tourist and Convention Bureau, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, condo owners associations, neighborhood groups and similar organizations should band together and speak with one voice. And they should demand action now. They should also insist that these young hooligans be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
This situation simply CANNOT be tolerated any longer.
Casey Anthony: The 'Tattooed Medea Of Orlando'
Casey Anthony is a monster.
And everyone knows it except 12 confused citizens of Florida and a few criminal-defense attorneys looking to get on CNN - even if the justice system has denied her the official title of child killer.
As surely as O.J. Simpson plunged a knife into his ex-wife, Caylee Marie's mother guaranteed she wasn't going to see her 3rd birthday. The evidence, though circumstantial, was powerful. The fact that the jury failed to connect the logical dots is an indictment of our system.
But before Casey Anthony became the tattooed Medea of Orlando
Click here to read the rest of Christine Flowers' column from the Philadelphia Daily News.
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And everyone knows it except 12 confused citizens of Florida and a few criminal-defense attorneys looking to get on CNN - even if the justice system has denied her the official title of child killer.
As surely as O.J. Simpson plunged a knife into his ex-wife, Caylee Marie's mother guaranteed she wasn't going to see her 3rd birthday. The evidence, though circumstantial, was powerful. The fact that the jury failed to connect the logical dots is an indictment of our system.
But before Casey Anthony became the tattooed Medea of Orlando
Click here to read the rest of Christine Flowers' column from the Philadelphia Daily News.
The REAL Story Behind The Casey Anthony Verdict
What the hell happened?
That's what everybody seems to be asking on the heels of the Casey Anthony verdict.
Did it startle you? Were you surprised?
I wasn't. I really wasn't stunned in the least. Though I was disappointed.
In case you've been living in a cave, you now know that Casey Anthony was found not guilty of murder and nearly all other counts. The only thing she was found guilty of was giving false information to law enforcement authorities.Considering the time she's already spent in jail, she's liable to spend little or no additional time behind bars. She's sprung.
How could this be.
Well, we all now about reasonable doubt. The jury must be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution. Simply put, at least one member of the jury had serious doubts about Anthony's guilt.
But there's more. It's what I call the "show trial sell-out."
To begin with, juries these days are incredibly wimpy. We now live in a gray world where there are no moral absolutes -- no rights and wrongs -- and we're constantly preached to (primarily by liberals and other bed-wetters) about how we should not stand in judgment of others. And there's a reluctance by almost everybody to take responsibility for anything. So, no one wants to be the person who finally stands up and says: "Yes, this person is guilty and should be punished."
Then too, the jury selection process has become so mired in regulation and courtroom rules that it's become an elaborate game -- a game called "How Can We Stack The Jury?"
All of these things are magnified during a Big Time Show Trial. And all of these "wimp factors" achieve greater significance and greater intensity.
In this "scared-of-my-shadow" atmosphere the slightest doubt springs the defendant. With the hot glare of Big Media -- with the whole world watching -- jurors collapse. They can't take the heat.
Witness the O. J. Simspon and Robert Blake verdicts, to name a couple.
Oh sure, we'll throw the book at Leona Helmsley or Martha Stewart -- that's pure resentment, envy and class warfare (another leftist gift to the world).
But it seems we're all too happy to let some low down good-for-nothing get away with murder.
That's [almost] the whole picture. And it's not pretty. And we'd damned well better do something about it.
I'm afraid that's the real story behind the Casey Anthony verdict and I fear we're all complicit in it.
Oh, this too: A real honest-to-goodness murder trial ain't no soap opera. It ain't no show, folks. It's not there for your entertainment. Get a life, OK?
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That's what everybody seems to be asking on the heels of the Casey Anthony verdict.
Did it startle you? Were you surprised?
I wasn't. I really wasn't stunned in the least. Though I was disappointed.
In case you've been living in a cave, you now know that Casey Anthony was found not guilty of murder and nearly all other counts. The only thing she was found guilty of was giving false information to law enforcement authorities.Considering the time she's already spent in jail, she's liable to spend little or no additional time behind bars. She's sprung.
How could this be.
Well, we all now about reasonable doubt. The jury must be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution. Simply put, at least one member of the jury had serious doubts about Anthony's guilt.
But there's more. It's what I call the "show trial sell-out."
To begin with, juries these days are incredibly wimpy. We now live in a gray world where there are no moral absolutes -- no rights and wrongs -- and we're constantly preached to (primarily by liberals and other bed-wetters) about how we should not stand in judgment of others. And there's a reluctance by almost everybody to take responsibility for anything. So, no one wants to be the person who finally stands up and says: "Yes, this person is guilty and should be punished."
Then too, the jury selection process has become so mired in regulation and courtroom rules that it's become an elaborate game -- a game called "How Can We Stack The Jury?"
All of these things are magnified during a Big Time Show Trial. And all of these "wimp factors" achieve greater significance and greater intensity.
In this "scared-of-my-shadow" atmosphere the slightest doubt springs the defendant. With the hot glare of Big Media -- with the whole world watching -- jurors collapse. They can't take the heat.
Witness the O. J. Simspon and Robert Blake verdicts, to name a couple.
Oh sure, we'll throw the book at Leona Helmsley or Martha Stewart -- that's pure resentment, envy and class warfare (another leftist gift to the world).
But it seems we're all too happy to let some low down good-for-nothing get away with murder.
That's [almost] the whole picture. And it's not pretty. And we'd damned well better do something about it.
I'm afraid that's the real story behind the Casey Anthony verdict and I fear we're all complicit in it.
Oh, this too: A real honest-to-goodness murder trial ain't no soap opera. It ain't no show, folks. It's not there for your entertainment. Get a life, OK?
Former Illinos Governor Guilty On 17 Counts
Ousted Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich was found guilty Monday on 17 counts. Paired with a conviction on lying to the FBI from his first trial, he faces up to 305 years in prison, though his sentence will likely be much shorter. Each count carries a maximum penalty of five to 20 years.
Click here for more.
NJ State Senator Praise Confirmation Of Patterson
New Jersey state senators have heartily praised the Senate Judiciary Committee's confirmation of Anne Patterson for a seat on the New Jersey State Supreme Court. Patterson is Governor Chris Christie's first nominee to the high court.
Here's a roundup from leading state senators.
Senator Christopher "Kip" Bateman (R-Somerset), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement regarding today’s confirmation hearing for Anne Patterson, nominated by Governor Christie to the New Jersey Supreme Court:
"Anne Patterson is more than qualified to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court. She has a rock-solid reputation as one of the brightest legal minds in our state and is highly respected by her peers in the legal community.
" Today's confirmation hearing was a year in the making, but the delay cannot deter from the significance of the moment. Ms. Patterson's appointment to the court would mean that for the first time in New Jersey history, we would have a majority of women on the State Supreme Court. New Jersey would become only the fifth State in the nation to have such a balance.
"Because of Ms. Patterson's education, experience and reputation, I am optimistic she will be confirmed by the full Senate and be the next member of New Jersey's Supreme Court."
Senator Gerald Cardinale, the senior Republican member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement on the release of Anne Patterson from the committee:
“Anne Patterson has unshakable credentials as a legal scholar with high ethical standards and a demonstrable judicial deportment. I am pleased that her conformation hearing has finally been held and look forward to voting for her conformation in the full Senate.”
Senator Beck's Statement on Today's Confirmation Hearing for Anne Patterson
Senator Jennifer Beck (R- Monmouth/Mercer) issued the following statement after Anne Patterson's nomination to fill a vacant seat on the New Jersey Supreme Court was approved today by the Senate Judiciary Committee.
"It has been more than a year since Anne Patterson was nominated by Governor Christie," said Beck, "and it is time that she was heard. In her interview in front of the Judiciary Committee today, I found her to be articulate, intelligent and professional. I believe she will make an excellent addition to the New Jersey Supreme Court. Her background in the New Jersey Attorney General's office under Governor Christie Whitman, as well as the accolades she has earned from her peers in the legal profession, makes her well suited for the bench."
Anne Patterson will have to be confirmed by the State Senate in order to take the bench. The next voting session is scheduled for Thursday, June 9th. "I hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting this exceptionally well qualified individual, and in so doing make history by confirming a female majority to this state's highest court."
Senator Joe Kyrillos (R- Monmouth/Middlesex), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, offered the following reaction to today's confirmation hearing for Anne Patterson to be an Associate Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court:
"Ms. Patterson said something today that I have never heard from a nominee to our state's highest court- that she would bring humility to the job. She is to be commended for that promise, as the decisions she will make as an Associate Justice have very real consequences for the people of New Jersey."
"Anne Patterson showed today not only that she is qualified to be a jurist, but that New Jersey needs her on the Supreme Court. Her testimony and answers to the Committee's questions were thoughtful, ethical, and demonstrated a piercing intellect."
"The Majority's failure to consider her nomination last year was wrong and unprecedented, and ultimately delayed confirmation of an exceedingly qualified nominee. I am, however, pleased that these confirmation proceedings have finally arrived, and encourage all of my colleagues to join me in voting yes on her nomination."
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Here's a roundup from leading state senators.
Senator Christopher "Kip" Bateman (R-Somerset), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement regarding today’s confirmation hearing for Anne Patterson, nominated by Governor Christie to the New Jersey Supreme Court:
"Anne Patterson is more than qualified to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court. She has a rock-solid reputation as one of the brightest legal minds in our state and is highly respected by her peers in the legal community.
" Today's confirmation hearing was a year in the making, but the delay cannot deter from the significance of the moment. Ms. Patterson's appointment to the court would mean that for the first time in New Jersey history, we would have a majority of women on the State Supreme Court. New Jersey would become only the fifth State in the nation to have such a balance.
"Because of Ms. Patterson's education, experience and reputation, I am optimistic she will be confirmed by the full Senate and be the next member of New Jersey's Supreme Court."
Senator Gerald Cardinale, the senior Republican member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement on the release of Anne Patterson from the committee:
“Anne Patterson has unshakable credentials as a legal scholar with high ethical standards and a demonstrable judicial deportment. I am pleased that her conformation hearing has finally been held and look forward to voting for her conformation in the full Senate.”
Senator Beck's Statement on Today's Confirmation Hearing for Anne Patterson
Senator Jennifer Beck (R- Monmouth/Mercer) issued the following statement after Anne Patterson's nomination to fill a vacant seat on the New Jersey Supreme Court was approved today by the Senate Judiciary Committee.
"It has been more than a year since Anne Patterson was nominated by Governor Christie," said Beck, "and it is time that she was heard. In her interview in front of the Judiciary Committee today, I found her to be articulate, intelligent and professional. I believe she will make an excellent addition to the New Jersey Supreme Court. Her background in the New Jersey Attorney General's office under Governor Christie Whitman, as well as the accolades she has earned from her peers in the legal profession, makes her well suited for the bench."
Anne Patterson will have to be confirmed by the State Senate in order to take the bench. The next voting session is scheduled for Thursday, June 9th. "I hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting this exceptionally well qualified individual, and in so doing make history by confirming a female majority to this state's highest court."
Senator Joe Kyrillos (R- Monmouth/Middlesex), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, offered the following reaction to today's confirmation hearing for Anne Patterson to be an Associate Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court:
"Ms. Patterson said something today that I have never heard from a nominee to our state's highest court- that she would bring humility to the job. She is to be commended for that promise, as the decisions she will make as an Associate Justice have very real consequences for the people of New Jersey."
"Anne Patterson showed today not only that she is qualified to be a jurist, but that New Jersey needs her on the Supreme Court. Her testimony and answers to the Committee's questions were thoughtful, ethical, and demonstrated a piercing intellect."
"The Majority's failure to consider her nomination last year was wrong and unprecedented, and ultimately delayed confirmation of an exceedingly qualified nominee. I am, however, pleased that these confirmation proceedings have finally arrived, and encourage all of my colleagues to join me in voting yes on her nomination."
Committee Approves Christie Supreme Court Nominee
Today, Governor Chris Christie issued the following statement regarding the Senate Judiciary Committee’s approval of Anne Patterson to be an Associate Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court:
“I want to thank the Judiciary Committee and Chairman Scutari for their support of an outstanding candidate for our state Supreme Court. In Anne Patterson, we have a principled and experienced attorney of the highest character and professionalism joining the Court if confirmed by the full Senate. From the hearing today and since the time of her nomination, the people of New Jersey have learned that Anne possesses all the attributes I will demand of any nomination I make to the Supreme Court, including integrity, compassion and, above all, the necessary credentials and background to serve on our state’s highest court.”
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“I want to thank the Judiciary Committee and Chairman Scutari for their support of an outstanding candidate for our state Supreme Court. In Anne Patterson, we have a principled and experienced attorney of the highest character and professionalism joining the Court if confirmed by the full Senate. From the hearing today and since the time of her nomination, the people of New Jersey have learned that Anne possesses all the attributes I will demand of any nomination I make to the Supreme Court, including integrity, compassion and, above all, the necessary credentials and background to serve on our state’s highest court.”
NJ: Addiego, Rudder, Delany Blast High Court
New Jersey State Senator Dawn Marie Addiego, Assemblyman Scott Rudder and Assemblyman Pat Delany expressed outrage after the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that an additional $500 million must be spent on the chronically failing school districts formerly known as Abbott Districts.
“Suburban taxpayers should be appalled by this ruling! The court has declared that suburban parents who are already paying twice for education, for their own children and for students in the urban districts, now must shoulder the burden of another $500 million,” said Senator Addiego.
New Jersey’s school funding formula channels almost 60 percent of all state education aid to just a handful of school districts, the same districts that will receive the additional $500 million.“Since 2001, the 31 Abbott school districts in the state have received $43 billion in state aid,” said Assemblyman Rudder.
“This ruling will continue to drive up property taxes for suburban homeowners.”
“Once again, the New Jersey Supreme Court has mandated that the taxpayers spend hundreds of millions as if we had limitless funds and no other responsibilities,” said Assemblyman Delany. “This is just another in a long line of expensive court decisions that will cost New Jersey taxpayers when they can least afford it.”
"New Jersey’s worst performing urban school districts already spend far more than the state average, and continue to have unacceptably low graduation rates and poor classroom performance,” Senator Addiego said. “Without accountability and education reform, the supreme court is ensuring that children attend even more expensive schools that continue to fail them, while leading to huge property tax increases across the state.”
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“Suburban taxpayers should be appalled by this ruling! The court has declared that suburban parents who are already paying twice for education, for their own children and for students in the urban districts, now must shoulder the burden of another $500 million,” said Senator Addiego.
New Jersey’s school funding formula channels almost 60 percent of all state education aid to just a handful of school districts, the same districts that will receive the additional $500 million.“Since 2001, the 31 Abbott school districts in the state have received $43 billion in state aid,” said Assemblyman Rudder.
“This ruling will continue to drive up property taxes for suburban homeowners.”
“Once again, the New Jersey Supreme Court has mandated that the taxpayers spend hundreds of millions as if we had limitless funds and no other responsibilities,” said Assemblyman Delany. “This is just another in a long line of expensive court decisions that will cost New Jersey taxpayers when they can least afford it.”
"New Jersey’s worst performing urban school districts already spend far more than the state average, and continue to have unacceptably low graduation rates and poor classroom performance,” Senator Addiego said. “Without accountability and education reform, the supreme court is ensuring that children attend even more expensive schools that continue to fail them, while leading to huge property tax increases across the state.”
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NJ Supreme Court Decision Is Bogus, Arrogant
Hot Air has joined many other publications and web sites in denouncing the controversial New Jersey Supreme Court decision that orders the state to continue throwing money at so-called "poor" school districts even though billions of dollars of spending (estimated at $37 billion and counting) has failed to improve grades and test scores for students in these districts.
Not only is the decision dumb beyond belief but in fact, this sweeping decision has absolutely no credibility.
Here's an excerpt from the article:
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Not only is the decision dumb beyond belief but in fact, this sweeping decision has absolutely no credibility.
Here's an excerpt from the article:
Meanwhile, the state of New Jersey simply can’t afford this decision. Complying with earlier Abbott court rulings cost New Jersey taxpayers more than $37 billion between 1998 and 2008 alone, according to a Federalist Society white paper.
The decision is fishy for another reason, as well. The Court’s decision came on the strength of a swing vote of a justice temporarily assigned to the Court with neither the governor’s approval nor the advice and consent of the state senate.
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NJ School Funding Ruling: Outrageous Imposition
As you can see by the reaction of the Governor and many state lesgialtors, the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision reiterating the imposition of the school funding formula for the state's so-called "Abbott" (allegedly "poorer") school districts has touched off a firestorm.
New Jersey has faced a continued financial crisis.
The state is not undertaxed.
It's not a revenue problem that the state faces.
It's a tax problem.
New Jersey residents are taxed too much.
And the highest burden on the already highest-in-the-nation New Jersey property taxes is the cost of education -- funding local school districts.
It's the biggest chunk of local towns' skyrocketing property taxes and homeowner's feel the pain day after day.
Governor Chris Christie has courageously taken on this battle.
He has been fearless and steadfast in his efforts to rein in "education" costs that are draining revenues: too many administrators with too many Big Fat Paychecks; the huge burden of teacher and public employee health benefits and pensions; huge sick and vacation day "jackpot" payouts upon retirement; too many school districts with overlapping spending and wasteful practices. The list goes on and on.
The last thing the Governor and other common-sense leaders needed at this time was the imposition of this latest Supreme Court decision.
For a long time, the New Jersey Supreme Court has acted in an imperious and overbearing manner. The Supreme Court has taken an "our way or the highway" approach to its judicial responsibility. And the Court has turned a deaf ear to the stark realities that face the state -- the real problems that taxpayers and elected officials face day-to-day.
The Court seems to see itself not as a co-equal branch of the state government but rather as a super-authority (an almost regal entity) above and beyond the people, the elected leaders or any other agency, bureau or body in the state.
Throughout these years of unbridled court activism, New Jerseyans have been far too complacent. Sweeping decisions such as the Mt. Laurel decision and the Abbott decision have come and gone and the people have accepted their consequences (and their own fate) in a largely docile manner.
Part of this is understandable.
A lot of people are uniformed.
The state has no statewide commercial TV station and no statewide newspaper. And New York and Philadelphia media outlets give short shrift to New Jersey.
But these factors can only excuse a finite amount of apathy.
And now the complacency must end.
The people must take up the mantle of Christie and like-minded legislators.
And this means that the Governor must be given a legislature that will enact spending and/or court reform and also allow Christie to make siginifant changes in the makeup of the hgh court as those opportunities present themselves.
Major change must occur -- even if it takes a constitutional amendment to make it happen.
The statewide legislative elections are coming up this November.
The fiscal crisis and the court must be front and center.
ANY legislator (Republican or Democrat) who supports the policies of this court (and the Abbott funding approach in particular) should be thrown out of office.
Those who favor an activist court that legislates from the bench should be removed.
New Jersey must change its ways. That means a changed legislature and a changed legislative leadership.
The people still have the power -- IF they choose to exercise it.
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New Jersey has faced a continued financial crisis.
The state is not undertaxed.
It's not a revenue problem that the state faces.
It's a tax problem.
New Jersey residents are taxed too much.
And the highest burden on the already highest-in-the-nation New Jersey property taxes is the cost of education -- funding local school districts.
It's the biggest chunk of local towns' skyrocketing property taxes and homeowner's feel the pain day after day.
Governor Chris Christie has courageously taken on this battle.
He has been fearless and steadfast in his efforts to rein in "education" costs that are draining revenues: too many administrators with too many Big Fat Paychecks; the huge burden of teacher and public employee health benefits and pensions; huge sick and vacation day "jackpot" payouts upon retirement; too many school districts with overlapping spending and wasteful practices. The list goes on and on.
The last thing the Governor and other common-sense leaders needed at this time was the imposition of this latest Supreme Court decision.
For a long time, the New Jersey Supreme Court has acted in an imperious and overbearing manner. The Supreme Court has taken an "our way or the highway" approach to its judicial responsibility. And the Court has turned a deaf ear to the stark realities that face the state -- the real problems that taxpayers and elected officials face day-to-day.
The Court seems to see itself not as a co-equal branch of the state government but rather as a super-authority (an almost regal entity) above and beyond the people, the elected leaders or any other agency, bureau or body in the state.
Throughout these years of unbridled court activism, New Jerseyans have been far too complacent. Sweeping decisions such as the Mt. Laurel decision and the Abbott decision have come and gone and the people have accepted their consequences (and their own fate) in a largely docile manner.
Part of this is understandable.
A lot of people are uniformed.
The state has no statewide commercial TV station and no statewide newspaper. And New York and Philadelphia media outlets give short shrift to New Jersey.
But these factors can only excuse a finite amount of apathy.
And now the complacency must end.
The people must take up the mantle of Christie and like-minded legislators.
And this means that the Governor must be given a legislature that will enact spending and/or court reform and also allow Christie to make siginifant changes in the makeup of the hgh court as those opportunities present themselves.
Major change must occur -- even if it takes a constitutional amendment to make it happen.
The statewide legislative elections are coming up this November.
The fiscal crisis and the court must be front and center.
ANY legislator (Republican or Democrat) who supports the policies of this court (and the Abbott funding approach in particular) should be thrown out of office.
Those who favor an activist court that legislates from the bench should be removed.
New Jersey must change its ways. That means a changed legislature and a changed legislative leadership.
The people still have the power -- IF they choose to exercise it.
Cardinale: Court Treads On Legislative, Exec. Branches
New Jersey State Senator Gerald Cardinale noted today that two of the five voting members of the New Jersey Supreme Court dissented from the latest Abbott Decision because the “relief demanded of this court treads on the constitutional prerogatives of the Legislature and the Executive branch.”:
“The two dissenting opinions of the court are very telling. Two justices argued that the court had no right to order the Legislature to spend money. This is a principle that is maintained in both the state and federal constitutions. Only the Legislature can appropriate and spend the taxpayers’ money, not the executive branch and certainly not the Supreme Court.
“In the second dissent the two Justices acknowledge the abject failure of the Senate Democrats to fulfill their constitutional obligation of advice and consent. The determination made by the court today was by a 3-to-2 vote. Clearly, in a case that literally impacts the wallets of every person living in the state the court must acknowledge that a minimum of four votes are needed to grant relief on this motion.
“The Court has ignored the Constitutional provision that all education aid be distributed for the equal benefit of the state. (Article 8, Section 4, paragraph 2) this provision of the State Constitution is as binding as any other and should not be disregarded by the Court to further their misguided ambitions of social engineering.
“It is extraordinary that the Court is not averse to violating the very principles it is sworn to uphold. I object to the court’s arrogance and to its conduct. Today was a very bad day for the American system of jurisprudence.
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“The two dissenting opinions of the court are very telling. Two justices argued that the court had no right to order the Legislature to spend money. This is a principle that is maintained in both the state and federal constitutions. Only the Legislature can appropriate and spend the taxpayers’ money, not the executive branch and certainly not the Supreme Court.
“In the second dissent the two Justices acknowledge the abject failure of the Senate Democrats to fulfill their constitutional obligation of advice and consent. The determination made by the court today was by a 3-to-2 vote. Clearly, in a case that literally impacts the wallets of every person living in the state the court must acknowledge that a minimum of four votes are needed to grant relief on this motion.
“The Court has ignored the Constitutional provision that all education aid be distributed for the equal benefit of the state. (Article 8, Section 4, paragraph 2) this provision of the State Constitution is as binding as any other and should not be disregarded by the Court to further their misguided ambitions of social engineering.
“It is extraordinary that the Court is not averse to violating the very principles it is sworn to uphold. I object to the court’s arrogance and to its conduct. Today was a very bad day for the American system of jurisprudence.
Kean: NJ High Court Cannot Legislate From Bench
New Jersey Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean, Jr. (R- Union) issued the following statement in response to the New Jersey Supreme Court's ruling ordering the state to spend $500 million on the 31 former Abbott school districts:
"The unelected justices of the New Jersey Supreme Court issued a ruling today that created law from the bench despite having no constitutional authority to do so. In so doing, they have thumbed their noses at the residents of the state who elected a Governor and a Legislature to make these policy decisions as is prescribed by the state constitution."
"The Court is wrong. A thorough and efficient system of education is not solely contingent on dollars, but requires significant reforms to make those dollars work better for students: rewarding excellent teachers for merit rather than longevity, reforming tenure to more easily and quickly remove ineffective educators from the classroom, and capping superintendent salaries to rein in administrative costs. Quality education is about holding the system accountable for student outcomes, and we should not turn to spending as a remedy until accountability measures are put in place."
"The Court's ruling fails disadvantaged students by continuing a decades-old legal theory that, since its inception, has not measurably improved the poor graduation rates and test scores of chronically failing school districts."
"Republicans have been clear: we will not raise taxes on the most highly taxed people in America to pay for another wrongheaded decision by the Supreme Court. The state's tax burden has, according to census figures released today, cost our state another 190, 000 residents in 2009. The Legislative Majority needs to put its cards on the table and come forward with ideas on how to address this ruling."
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"The unelected justices of the New Jersey Supreme Court issued a ruling today that created law from the bench despite having no constitutional authority to do so. In so doing, they have thumbed their noses at the residents of the state who elected a Governor and a Legislature to make these policy decisions as is prescribed by the state constitution."
"The Court is wrong. A thorough and efficient system of education is not solely contingent on dollars, but requires significant reforms to make those dollars work better for students: rewarding excellent teachers for merit rather than longevity, reforming tenure to more easily and quickly remove ineffective educators from the classroom, and capping superintendent salaries to rein in administrative costs. Quality education is about holding the system accountable for student outcomes, and we should not turn to spending as a remedy until accountability measures are put in place."
"The Court's ruling fails disadvantaged students by continuing a decades-old legal theory that, since its inception, has not measurably improved the poor graduation rates and test scores of chronically failing school districts."
"Republicans have been clear: we will not raise taxes on the most highly taxed people in America to pay for another wrongheaded decision by the Supreme Court. The state's tax burden has, according to census figures released today, cost our state another 190, 000 residents in 2009. The Legislative Majority needs to put its cards on the table and come forward with ideas on how to address this ruling."
Christie: High Court Decision 'All That's Wrong' In NJ
Today's arrogant, outrageous and irresponsible school funding decision by the New Jersey Supreme Court warrants the strongest possible response from every citizen of the state and that response -- a response of nothing less than outrage -- must emanate from the top.
Fittingly, Governor Chris Christie has set the proper tone in responding with appropriate dismay.
The Governor is absolutely correct: The Court has no business telling the State Legislature and the Governor how they should spend the taxpayer's money. The Court has vastly overstepped its bounds. The Justices of this contemptuous Court are legislating from the bench.
If this is the way they wish to conduct themselves, the majority Justices should get the hell off the court and run for office -- run for legislative posts or whatever.
The time has come for the people of the state to rise up and demand reform so that EVERY branch of government (including this heretofore imperious court) will be accountable to the people.
The Governor's statement follows:
FULL TRANSCRIPT OF THE GOVERNOR’S OPENING STATEMENT:
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie:
Today’s ruling by the State Supreme Court is disappointing, but not unexpected.
There are several reasons why I believe this decision represents everything that’s wrong with how Trenton has historically operated and everything that I am here fighting to change.
First, as a fundamental principle, I do not believe that it is the role of the State Supreme Court to determine what programs the State should and should not be funding, and to what amount.
The Court should not be dictating how taxpayer dollars are spent and prioritizing certain programs over others. The Supreme Court is not the Legislature; it should not dictate policy, it should not be in the business of discussing specific taxes to be raised and it should not have any business deciding how tax dollars are spent. A number of the members of the current Supreme Court agreed with that very position in today’s decision.
Those responsible for making decisions regarding how money is raised through taxes and how it is spent by government are those elected by the people and ultimately held accountable by the people.
Secondly, I believe the Court’s decision is based on a failed legal and educational theory that incorrectly reasons the key to establishing a thorough and efficient system of education is to throw more money at failing schools.
Let me be clear, I do believe funding education is critically important to New Jersey’s future. Even before today’s Court decision, we increased education aid by $250 million to every school district in this year’s proposed budget.
But, we must also acknowledge that money does not equal quality results. And there is now nearly 30 years of evidence that just throwing money at the problem is not the answer.
We should be getting better results with the taxpayer money we already spend and we aren’t which means changing the educational system goes beyond dollars and cents.
However, as Governor of New Jersey, I realize that regardless of my personal beliefs, I must comply with the New Jersey Constitution as interpreted by the New Jersey Supreme Court. In February, I submitted my budget to the Legislature for review and consideration. That is my constitutional obligation. Now the legislature has until June 30th to fulfill its constitutional obligation to pass a final budget.
In the light of the court’s ruling, it is now up to the Legislature to determine how the State is best able to fund the additional $500 million in aid to the Abbott districts specifically ordered in footnote 23 by the Court’s majority while also meeting the State’s other funding priorities as I proposed them. I have complete confidence that the Legislature understands its unique constitutional obligation to send a balance budget to me by June 30th. I am also confident that the Legislature understands its independent constitutional obligation to comply with the Supreme Court’s order in whatever budget they send to me for my consideration by the June 30th deadline.
I fully expect the Legislature will send me in a timely manner for my review and consideration a constitutionally balanced budget that includes how the Court’s order will be met.
My principles remain the same. New Jersey has some of the highest taxes in America. New Jerseyans are already incredibly overtaxed. Therefore, as I have repeatedly stated, I do not believe raising taxes is the answer. That has not changed.
I stand ready to execute my constitutional duties and consider what the Legislature submits as its final budget to me by June 30th.
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Fittingly, Governor Chris Christie has set the proper tone in responding with appropriate dismay.
The Governor is absolutely correct: The Court has no business telling the State Legislature and the Governor how they should spend the taxpayer's money. The Court has vastly overstepped its bounds. The Justices of this contemptuous Court are legislating from the bench.
If this is the way they wish to conduct themselves, the majority Justices should get the hell off the court and run for office -- run for legislative posts or whatever.
The time has come for the people of the state to rise up and demand reform so that EVERY branch of government (including this heretofore imperious court) will be accountable to the people.
The Governor's statement follows:
FULL TRANSCRIPT OF THE GOVERNOR’S OPENING STATEMENT:
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie:
Today’s ruling by the State Supreme Court is disappointing, but not unexpected.
There are several reasons why I believe this decision represents everything that’s wrong with how Trenton has historically operated and everything that I am here fighting to change.
First, as a fundamental principle, I do not believe that it is the role of the State Supreme Court to determine what programs the State should and should not be funding, and to what amount.
The Court should not be dictating how taxpayer dollars are spent and prioritizing certain programs over others. The Supreme Court is not the Legislature; it should not dictate policy, it should not be in the business of discussing specific taxes to be raised and it should not have any business deciding how tax dollars are spent. A number of the members of the current Supreme Court agreed with that very position in today’s decision.
Those responsible for making decisions regarding how money is raised through taxes and how it is spent by government are those elected by the people and ultimately held accountable by the people.
Secondly, I believe the Court’s decision is based on a failed legal and educational theory that incorrectly reasons the key to establishing a thorough and efficient system of education is to throw more money at failing schools.
Let me be clear, I do believe funding education is critically important to New Jersey’s future. Even before today’s Court decision, we increased education aid by $250 million to every school district in this year’s proposed budget.
But, we must also acknowledge that money does not equal quality results. And there is now nearly 30 years of evidence that just throwing money at the problem is not the answer.
We should be getting better results with the taxpayer money we already spend and we aren’t which means changing the educational system goes beyond dollars and cents.
However, as Governor of New Jersey, I realize that regardless of my personal beliefs, I must comply with the New Jersey Constitution as interpreted by the New Jersey Supreme Court. In February, I submitted my budget to the Legislature for review and consideration. That is my constitutional obligation. Now the legislature has until June 30th to fulfill its constitutional obligation to pass a final budget.
In the light of the court’s ruling, it is now up to the Legislature to determine how the State is best able to fund the additional $500 million in aid to the Abbott districts specifically ordered in footnote 23 by the Court’s majority while also meeting the State’s other funding priorities as I proposed them. I have complete confidence that the Legislature understands its unique constitutional obligation to send a balance budget to me by June 30th. I am also confident that the Legislature understands its independent constitutional obligation to comply with the Supreme Court’s order in whatever budget they send to me for my consideration by the June 30th deadline.
I fully expect the Legislature will send me in a timely manner for my review and consideration a constitutionally balanced budget that includes how the Court’s order will be met.
My principles remain the same. New Jersey has some of the highest taxes in America. New Jerseyans are already incredibly overtaxed. Therefore, as I have repeatedly stated, I do not believe raising taxes is the answer. That has not changed.
I stand ready to execute my constitutional duties and consider what the Legislature submits as its final budget to me by June 30th.
Christie Repeals Statutory Early Release Parole
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie wasted no time yesterday in signing the bill repealing the statutory early release parole program, a law that the Administration had sought to have rolled back 10 months ago on the prediction that it would put public safety at risk. With the Governor’s signature, release of another four prisoners scheduled for today was stopped; fourteen were scheduled for release tomorrow.
“From a public policy and public safety point of view, the statutory early release law was a disaster,” Governor Christie said. “Repeal should have happened 10 months ago, when we predicted and warned of the tragic circumstances that would follow if this law remained in effect. Nonetheless, I’m relieved and grateful that the legislature finally acted to repeal this failed law. Our communities and the safety of our citizens must get first consideration, and repeal of this law accomplishes that.”
In recent months, two inmates – both of whom had previously been denied parole while serving their prison terms – were charged with murder after being released under the mandatory early release law. Other inmates gaining early release have been involved in violent crimes, including one individual who robbed and beat a woman so badly police had difficulty identifying the victim. That prisoner had twice been denied parole while serving his sentence.
The bill passed by the Assembly yesterday and previously by the Senate includes another provision added by Governor Christie in a conditional veto issued on March 30. The conditional veto returns discretion to the parole board, where it belongs, for determining parole eligibility. Prior to the Governor’s action, a mandatory 3-year parole review for all inmates was imposed on the Parole Board – even for those inmates who made no efforts toward rehabilitation.
“These are decisions that belong not with lawmakers but with professionals who have taken on this responsibility successfully for decades,” Governor Christie said.
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“From a public policy and public safety point of view, the statutory early release law was a disaster,” Governor Christie said. “Repeal should have happened 10 months ago, when we predicted and warned of the tragic circumstances that would follow if this law remained in effect. Nonetheless, I’m relieved and grateful that the legislature finally acted to repeal this failed law. Our communities and the safety of our citizens must get first consideration, and repeal of this law accomplishes that.”
In recent months, two inmates – both of whom had previously been denied parole while serving their prison terms – were charged with murder after being released under the mandatory early release law. Other inmates gaining early release have been involved in violent crimes, including one individual who robbed and beat a woman so badly police had difficulty identifying the victim. That prisoner had twice been denied parole while serving his sentence.
The bill passed by the Assembly yesterday and previously by the Senate includes another provision added by Governor Christie in a conditional veto issued on March 30. The conditional veto returns discretion to the parole board, where it belongs, for determining parole eligibility. Prior to the Governor’s action, a mandatory 3-year parole review for all inmates was imposed on the Parole Board – even for those inmates who made no efforts toward rehabilitation.
“These are decisions that belong not with lawmakers but with professionals who have taken on this responsibility successfully for decades,” Governor Christie said.
Sayde Ladov Winning Endorsements For CP Judge
But don't take our word for it. Look at the endorsements that Sayde has piled up already:
Fraternal Order of Police
Sayde is proud to announce that she has received the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP).The FOP is the labor union for Police Officers in the City of Philadelphia. The Fraternal Order of Police represents 14,600 Active and Retired officers of the Philadelphia Police and Sheriffs’ Department. They protect promote and improve the working conditions, legal rights, salary compensation, pensions & benefits of Philadelphia police officers.
Philadelphia Inquirer
Recognizing her broad experience and her service as Chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Philadelphia Inquirer has endorsed Sayde's candidacy.Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity
Sayde has also received the endorsement of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia.This influential group of ministers has a mission to enhance the welfare of poor and oppressed people in the African American community wherever they may reside in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in general and in the city of Philadelphia and vicinity in particular. The Black Clergy promotes equality, justice, brotherhood, community betterment, black awareness, jobs, better housing, education and Christian Principles.
Liberty City Democratic Club
Sayde is honored to have been endorsed by the Liberty City Democratic Club.
The Club was founded in 1994 by activists who wanted to build lesbian and gay power and involvement in the Democratic Party. The purpose of the club is to support LGBT-friendly candidates, promote legislative issues of importance to the LGBT community and provide a forum for LGBT voters to meet candidates and officeholders.
Eighth Ward Democratic Executive Committee
Sayde is excited to have received the endorsement of the 8th Ward.
The mission of the Eighth Ward Democratic Executive Committee is to activate the Democratic voters of the Eighth Ward, connect them to their party and their government and effect their political will. To this end the Eighth Ward Democratic Executive Committee shall: 1.) educate residents about the mechanics of voting, including registration and absentee balloting; 2.) solicit views and concerns from the residents of the Ward; 3.) help residents evaluate candidates; and 4.) help residents influence the actions of public officials.
Fifth and Ninth Wards
The Fifth Ward has endorsed Sayde as their candidate as has the 9th Ward.
The 5th, 8th and 9th Wards comprise Center City, Northern Liberties, Chestnut Hill, Society Hill, Olde City and many other neighborhoods as well.
Additional Endorsements
Sayde has received the endorsement if the Pentecostal Clergy PAC.
Sayde has the support of the District Attorney R. Seth Williams. Sayde has been found recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association Judicial Commission.
Stay tuned for more endorsements...
Stay tuned for more endorsements...
Christie, Sweeney Reach Agreement On Court Nominees
Joined at a press conference by Senate President Steve Sweeney, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie today announced a bipartisan agreement to move forward the stalled nomination of Morris County resident Anne Paterson as an associate justice of the New Jersey Supreme court. On May 10, 2010, Governor Christie nominated Patterson, following through on his pledge to rebalance and set a new direction for the state’s highest court.
“I’m pleased that we’ve come together in a bipartisan way to bring an end to the impasse of the last year and move forward with the confirmation process for a much deserving and highly qualified nominee for the Supreme Court. In Anne Patterson, we have a future associate justice of the highest character, legal intellect and compassion, who I believe will serve the people of New Jersey extraordinarily well,” said Governor Christie. “As the confirmation process moves forward for Anne, I believe it is inevitable that the Senate reaches the same conclusion about her as I have. I want to thank Senate President Sweeney for being a willing partner in finding a path forward today on this nomination and for subsequent future nominations to the Supreme Court.”
Governor Christie will formally withdraw Anne Patterson’s nomination and resubmit it for the seat being vacated by Justice Roberto Rivera-Soto. Senate President Sweeney has agreed to move swiftly to afford Patterson a confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and an up-or-down vote by the full Senate during the month of May. Upon her confirmation, for the first time, New Jersey would have a female majority on the Supreme Court, and become only the fifth state in America to have that distinction. Further as part of the agreement, the Senate President has agreed to provide the same expedited process in 2012, holding hearings for Governor Christie’s nominees in sufficient time to have them seated by March of 2012, if confirmed.
Anne Patterson, 52, is a partner with the law firm Riker, Danzig, Scherer, Hyland & Perretti, LLP, has received a rating of “highly qualified” from the New Jersey State Bar Association. There she practices primarily in the areas of product liability and commercial litigation in state and federal courts, class actions involving product liability and pharmaceutical pricing, intellectual property litigation, restrictive covenant litigation, closely held corporation litigation and appeals.
Patterson has been a member of the New Jersey bar for 27 years and has practiced before the state's Supreme Court, appellate and trial courts. In 1989 and 1990, Patterson served as a Deputy Attorney General and Special Assistant to then-New Jersey Attorney General Peter N. Perretti, Jr.
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“I’m pleased that we’ve come together in a bipartisan way to bring an end to the impasse of the last year and move forward with the confirmation process for a much deserving and highly qualified nominee for the Supreme Court. In Anne Patterson, we have a future associate justice of the highest character, legal intellect and compassion, who I believe will serve the people of New Jersey extraordinarily well,” said Governor Christie. “As the confirmation process moves forward for Anne, I believe it is inevitable that the Senate reaches the same conclusion about her as I have. I want to thank Senate President Sweeney for being a willing partner in finding a path forward today on this nomination and for subsequent future nominations to the Supreme Court.”
Governor Christie will formally withdraw Anne Patterson’s nomination and resubmit it for the seat being vacated by Justice Roberto Rivera-Soto. Senate President Sweeney has agreed to move swiftly to afford Patterson a confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, and an up-or-down vote by the full Senate during the month of May. Upon her confirmation, for the first time, New Jersey would have a female majority on the Supreme Court, and become only the fifth state in America to have that distinction. Further as part of the agreement, the Senate President has agreed to provide the same expedited process in 2012, holding hearings for Governor Christie’s nominees in sufficient time to have them seated by March of 2012, if confirmed.
Anne Patterson, 52, is a partner with the law firm Riker, Danzig, Scherer, Hyland & Perretti, LLP, has received a rating of “highly qualified” from the New Jersey State Bar Association. There she practices primarily in the areas of product liability and commercial litigation in state and federal courts, class actions involving product liability and pharmaceutical pricing, intellectual property litigation, restrictive covenant litigation, closely held corporation litigation and appeals.
Patterson has been a member of the New Jersey bar for 27 years and has practiced before the state's Supreme Court, appellate and trial courts. In 1989 and 1990, Patterson served as a Deputy Attorney General and Special Assistant to then-New Jersey Attorney General Peter N. Perretti, Jr.
Jesse Jackson Hit With Gay Harassment Charge
NBC Chicago is leading with a bombshell story about a reported lawsuit by a former employee of Jesse Jackson's Rainbow Push Coalition. Apparently, the gay employee charges (among other things) that Jackson propositioned him.
Here's an excerpt from the story:
Click here to read the full story.A former employee of the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. at the Rainbow Push Coalition has filed a bombshell wrongful termination and discrimination complaint against the civil rights leader with the City of Chicago's Commission on Human Rights.The complaint, filed sometime last year by Tommy R. Bennett, a regular on the Tom Joyner Radio show and member of Barack Obama's LGBT Leadership Council, includes shocking allegations about Jackson's behavior toward the openly gay staffer including an allegation that the civil rights leader propositioned him.Jackson has denied the allegations in a legal response that was filed in July 2010 and resurfaced when the Windy City Times published a story Tuesday.