ShapTalk.com

ShapTalk.com Partners with TheAlternativePress.com to Provide Political Commentary

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 04:01:00 +0000

This morning, ShapTalk.com officially partnered with TheAlternativePress.com, the State of New Jersey's first all-online local newspaper to provide political commentary for the online newspaper.* If you currently link to ShapTalk.com, please move your link to TheAlternativePress.com

TheAlternativePress.com offers daily local, regional and State news and information and is updated 24-7, 365 days a year. In addition, TheAlternativePress.com offers movie-quality video capability, providing video streaming of everything from high school sports clips to interviews with government officials to advertising promotions.

As part of the new arrangement, ShapTalk.com will no longer continue to operate. Michael Shapiro's columns will now appear on TheAlternativePress.com. All other contributors to ShapTalk.com will similarly have the opportunity to write for TheAlternativePress.com

We have been honored to serve you during the past two years and look forward to continuing to serve you in the years ahead as TheAlternativePress.com This site will remain available for the time being but will no longer be updated or maintained. From now on, please join us at TheAlternativePress.com

We hope you enjoy TheAlternativePress.com and look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your continued support.

* Both sites are owned by Michael Shapiro.

Toss Up: Corzine or Christie?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 03:37:00 +0000

Governor Corzine may have an upside down 40%-51% approval rating; however, he is still in a dead heat with current United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Chris Christie, in a hypothetical matchup for the 2009 gubernatorial election. This disclosure is not new. In August, a poll showed that Christie would defeat Governor Corzine by only 1% in a theoretical race. Given the Governor’s low approval numbers, it should give him comfort that his strongest Republican challenger can only muster a tie despite all of the problems facing the State of New Jersey and the shockingly low approval ratings of the Democratic Legislature.

Chris Christie, a former Freeholder and fundraiser for President Bush’s initial campaign for the White House, has made battling corruption his top priority. During his tenure, a number of high-profile politicians have been indicted and convicted, including Newark Mayor Sharpe James. Opponents of Mr. Christie have repeatedly pointed out that the majority of his successes have been against Democratic politicians, and they have questioned whether Mr. Christie has behaved in a partisan fashion. Attacks on Christie escalated after he gave a $50M+ contract to the firm of former United States Attorney General John Ashcroft to be a federal monitor regarding a New Jersey company. Christie’s actions were a catalyst for Congressional hearings on the subject as well as calls for reform. One would think that based on all of this, Christie would be a well known commodity in New Jersey.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Toss Up: Corzine or Christie?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Who are the Real Losers in the Rutgers Stadium Debacle?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:58:00 +0000

The private fundraising effort to pay for a $30M shortfall in the financing of a $102M stadium expansion for Rutgers University has been a debacle. Less than $2M has been raised since the Governor and State Senator Raymond Lesniak (D-Union) announced the initiative nearly a year ago. Governor Corzine, who is leading the effort, has donated $1M, the vast majority of the funds obtained to date. Meanwhile, even the strongest supporters of the idea, like Senator Lesniak, now say that the drive will result in far less than $30M and more like $10M, leaving a gaping $20M shortfall in funding. Interest-bearing short-term commercial loans are currently subsidizing the stadium expansion, creating further indebtedness.

Currently, the Rutgers Board of Governors is discussing how to make up the shortfall but the ideas on the table, including raising ticket prices, hiking tuition, and taking stadium revenues from other athletic programs, will likely not cover the shortfall and worse, will cripple the Rutgers athletic program and the University itself since fans are already balking at the increase in ticket prices this year and students are disturbed about the steep tuition hike last year...

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Who are the Real Losers in the Rutgers Stadium Debacle?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

It IS Back to the House for Andrews

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:46:00 +0000

On June 5, 2008, I wrote a column about the stinging double-digit defeat Congressman Andrews suffered at the hands of Senator Frank Lautenberg in the June Democratic Primary and asked, “Is it back to the House for Andrews?” Andrews himself steadfastly denied that he would ever return to the House, as did his wife, Camille, who sat on the line for the seat in the June Primary. However, this past week, Mr. Andrews reversed course and announced that he would retake the Democratic line from his wife and run in November for re-election to his Congressional seat.

It appears that Congressman Andrews has indeed had second thoughts about surrendering his seat since his political future after his June demise is now an uncertain one. While some voters may be angry with him for his duplicitous behavior, the residents of his District will likely welcome him with open arms given his strong popularity in that District. Those who will be most upset are people who are not residents of his district and, therefore, cannot vote in that election.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: It IS Back to the House for Andrews

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Pension Reforms Delayed!

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:51:00 +0000

On June 23, 2008, the New Jersey State Legislature enacted several reforms to the State’s pension system which are still awaiting Governor Corzine’s signature to make them into law. The reforms include raising the retirement age from 60 to 62, prohibiting public employees from counting time spent working in other states towards the 25 years of work required to quality for lifetime New Jersey health benefits, and eliminating Lincoln’s Birthday as a state holiday. They were recommended by a pension reform task force two years earlier and could save the State’s taxpayers $300 million over 15 years.

Unfortunately, Governor Corzine has refused to give the green light to implement them. Had he signed the legislation directly after the June vote, the reforms would have been effective August 1, 2008, affecting all new public employees hired after that date. Hundreds of employees have been hired since August 1, 2008, and more continue to be placed on the State payroll each day while the legislation awaits his signature.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Pension Reforms Delayed!

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

The Olympics Masked China’s Disdain for Human Rights

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:16:00 +0000

The Beijing Olympics will be remembered for the stellar performances of Olympic athletes, from Michael Phelps to Usain Bolt. It will also be memorialized for its top-flight athletic facilities and venues. What may not be remembered, however, is the Chinese government’s disdain for basic human rights. While there was wall to wall coverage of the games, there was only a small fraction of that coverage reserved for discussion of the Chinese government's policies. Particularly noteworthy, China's "re-education" program has barely registered in recent news.

The Chinese government is currently detaining upwards of 290,000 people in centers to “re-educate” them for a period ranging anywhere from one to three years, if not longer. These detainees are mostly political and religious dissenters, though some are petty criminals. In “re-education” centers, the incarcerated are forced to labor and confess to the charges levied against them. Punishment is provided without trial and there is no appeals process.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: The Olympics Masked China’s Disdain for Human Rights

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

New Jersey’s District 3: A Democratic Pick-Up?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:08:00 +0000

Much of the talk in New Jersey regarding contested Congressional seats this Fall has centered around District 7, where Democratic Assemblywoman Linda Stender is running against Republican State Senator Leonard Lance to fill the House seat vacated by retiring Republican Congressman Michael Ferguson (R-7). The most likely Democratic pick-up, however, is actually in District 3, where Democratic State Senator John Adler is battling Republican Christopher Myers to fill the seat of retiring Congressman James Saxton (R-3). Adler has raised approximately two million dollars for his run and as a popular State Senator from Cherry Hill who is well-respected for his policy-making abilities and breadth of knowledge regarding State and Federal issues, he is a formidable opponent of Mr. Myers, the Mayor of Medford, New Jersey and Lockheed-Martin Vice-President.

After a tough primary, Myers had only a little more than $150,000 on hand, compared to $1.9M for Senator Adler. Popular retiring Congressman Jim Saxton won re-election in 2006 with 58% of the vote. Given the unpopularity of President Bush in New Jersey and the support by Myers of many Bush policies, Senator Adler has both the financial and political edge...

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: New Jersey's District 3: A Democratic Pick-Up?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

The Wounded Warrior Workplace Initiative

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 04:03:00 +0000

Assemblyman Bob Straniere, a conservative Republican running for the 13th Congressional District seat in New York, recently announced the Wounded Warrior Workplace Initiative, a proposal to encourage the hiring of wounded veterans or their families by members of Congress and congressional candidates. As part of the Wounded Warrior Workplace Initiative, Mr. Straniere has created The Straniere Pledge, to hire wounded veterans or members of their immediate family for at least one-third of his congressional staff.

Straniere, a Vietnam-era veteran who served as an officer in the U.S. Army, is definitely on to something. While he is running for Congress this year and his Initiative will likely garner him support for that bid, his proposal is one that should be adopted by members of Congress, especially since they are our representatives who decide when and if to send servicemen and women into battle at great risk of death and/or injury.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com:The Wounded Warrior Workplace Initiative

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Will Councilman Hsing Decide the 7th District Race?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 04:23:00 +0000

The 7th Congressional District in New Jersey is one of the most hotly contested races in the State and throughout the country this year. This is due, in part, because Assemblywoman Linda Stender narrowly lost to Congressman Mike Ferguson in 2006, and Ferguson announced he would not seek another term. Stender now faces Republican State Senator Leonard Lance in the upcoming general election, and Michael Hsing. Who? Michael Hsing, a Republican Bridgewater Councilman, is running as an Independent, after dropping out of the Republican Primary for the same seat earlier this year, claiming it was rigged.

In a typical congressional district in New Jersey, the run of a Republican turned Independent would make little difference. In the 7th Congressional District, it could wind up making the whole difference. Given Hsing’s Republican orientation, Senator Lance’s campaign can be none too pleased regarding Hsing’s entry into the race.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com:Will Councilman Hsing Decide the 7th District Race?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

It’s the Secrecy, Stupid!

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:29:00 +0000

Rutgers is, once again, making news; however, this time it is not favorable. The Star-Ledger recently reported that Rutgers head football coach, Greg Schiano, negotiated a number of side deals which would induce him to remain committed to the University. The deals include a new football stadium to be built by Rutgers by next year or the release of Schiano from his contract without penalty should the stadium not be built. He would also receive $250,000 in additional compensation channeled through a vendor so that it would not appear on the University's books. This is besides his $2M annual contract, various bonuses for meeting certain milestones, free land given by the University on which Schiano could build a home, an $800,000 interest free loan for Schiano that is being forgiven at a rate of $100,000 per year for every year he stays at Rutgers, and free unlimited use of a helicopter and a jet. Meanwhile, the Rutgers Board of Governors voted in early July to increase tuition 8.5% next year, raising tuition, room and board to over $21,000 per year for a full-time in-state student.

While the costs to New Jersey taxpayers and Rutgers students for Coach Schiano's deals are high, they are not considered to be unusual when compared to what other successful college football coaches are receiving throughout the nation. Rutgers’ commitment to big-time college football began years ago. The ability to retain Coach Schiano, the recently successful Rutgers football team, and the outstanding recruits during the past few years are the fruits of that commitment. While one may legitimately question the University’s priorities, given massive budget shortfalls and high annual tuition increases, the desire to turn the football program into a marquee one is a goal that is shared by many residents of New Jersey, alums and non-alums alike.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: It's the Secrecy, Stupid!

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Christie’s Probe of Katz May Cause Him More Harm than Good

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:39:00 +0000

The conventional wisdom is that the recently announced federal probe into the dealings of former Corzine friend, Carla Katz, with the local CWA which she had led, will score United States Attorney Chris Christie political points with Republicans, Independents, and some anti-Corzine Democrats. Governor Corzine has been battling to keep emails between Katz and himself from becoming public and Katz is already under investigation by the national CWA for alleged improper conduct. Christie’s federal investigation promises more negative Katz headlines, more unfavorable publicity for the Governor, and positive publicity for Mr. Christie. However, Mr. Christie’s possible gubernatorial ambitions may actually be undermined by this probe.

Should Christie declare for Governor, it would be awkward indeed for a gubernatorial candidate to have been investigating the former girlfriend of the Governor he is trying to unseat. Should there be leaks of the investigation, particularly the leak of any salacious details regarding Ms. Katz, Christie will open himself up to attacks for inappropriately politicizing the Katz investigation for his own advantage. Should Christie be tough on Katz, he again leaves himself open to being portrayed as an opportunistic politician in the guise of a lawman. Conversely, should he facilitate a deal with her, it will also be seen as politically expedient to have investigated and punished the Governor’s former girlfriend prior to the gubernatorial campaign.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Christie’s Probe of Katz May Cause Him More Harm than Good

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

A Troubling Sign for New Jersey’s Economic Future

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The New Jersey Policy Research Organization, the think tank of the New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA), recently released a Study of New Jersey’s business climate. The Study included a telephone poll of 249 business leaders as well as interviews of 29 New Jersey and out-of-state business and government leaders. It also provided 37 policy recommendations for New Jersey based on other states’ best practices. The results of the Study are a troubling sign for New Jersey’s economic future.

When asked what is most likely to prevent a company from reaching its goals, 21% of Study respondents said the affordability of living in New Jersey, while 20% said New Jersey’s unfavorable tax structure, and 19% said the availability of a skilled workforce. Regarding the most negative impact on New Jersey’s companies, 26% of Study respondents cited the State’s tax policy while 16% said New Jersey’s healthcare policy most negatively impacts the State’s business community. Most troubling for New Jersey’s economy, 42% of Study respondents said that if the State government’s policies remain the same, the business climate will deteriorate while only 26% said that the climate will improve.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: A Troubling Sign for New Jersey's Economic Future

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

A Victory for “Pay to Play” Reformers

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 04:09:00 +0000

This past week, the Appellate Division of the Superior Court of New Jersey issued a decision in In the Matter of the Appeal by Earle Asphalt Company, a case involving the owner of a road construction business and his political contribution to the Monmouth County Republican Committee in June 2007. Walter Earle III, owner of Earle Asphalt Company, made the contribution at the behest of former State Senate President John Bennett, failing to realize that the contribution could bar him from obtaining business from the State. After obtaining counsel and being advised that his contribution might violate “pay-to-play” laws, Mr. Earle requested that the contribution be returned. Meanwhile, Earle Asphalt Company submitted a bid to the New Jersey Department of Transportation for a roadwork contract involving Interstate 195. It was the low bid and therefore Earle Asphalt would have been awarded the State contract. However, the Department of Treasury informed the company that it was disqualified from award of the contract because of Mr. Earle’s June 2007 political contribution. Mr. Earle appealed this decision and took the matter to court.

At issue was a 2005 amendment to the Campaign Contributions and Expenditure Reporting Act, also known as Chapter 51, which prohibits the awarding of a contract of over $17,500 by a state agency to a business entity that has provided more than $300 in the preceding eighteen months to any State or county political party, the Governor, or a candidate for Governor. The company’s primary argument was that Chapter 51 violated its freedom of speech and association rights. Citing a decision by the United States Supreme Court, the Superior Court of New Jersey stated that a statute, like Chapter 51, that limits political contributions is appropriate if the State is able to show a sufficiently important interest and the statute is written in such a way as to avoid unnecessary restrictions to the freedom of association.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: A Victory for "Pay to Play" Reformers

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Should Zoffinger Consider Stepping Down?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:54:00 +0000

During his tenure as the President and CEO of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA), George Zoffinger streamlined operations, eliminating waste, fraud and abuse. As former Chairman of the New Brunswick Development Corporation, he played an integral role in the revitalization of New Brunswick. Unfortunately, his tenure on the Rutgers Board of Governors has been marred by allegations of conflicts of interest and ethical dilemmas outside the board room, as well. Given these issues and Mr. Zoffinger's professional work and commitment to the many other boards on which he serves, it may be wise for him to consider stepping down from the Rutgers BOG, at least temporarily.

In 2004, then-Governor James E. McGreevey nominated George Zoffinger to the Rutgers University Board of Governors (BOG) as one of the Board’s “Public Governors,” for a six-year term. While his nomination was pending, he was confronted with allegations of a conflict of interest because, at the time, he was Chairman of the New Brunswick Development Corporation (Devco), a real estate development company that is based in New Brunswick (the home of Rutgers University) and does a great deal of work for both Rutgers and the City of New Brunswick. Devco was involved with such projects as the new Rockoff Hall University Apartments and the Rutgers Public Safety Building. In November 2004, Mr. Zoffinger held a meeting with students regarding the issue and told them that there would be no conflict if he served on the BOG and that he would eliminate any appearance of a conflict of interest by not being involved in any real estate or sports matters that come before the Board.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Should Zoffinger Consider Stepping Down?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Corzine’s E-mail Fiasco: A Profound Lack of Judgment?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:28:00 +0000

Governor Corzine's refusal to release e-mails exchanged with Carla Katz, head of the CWA, despite a Court Order to do so, is troubling. The Governor is claiming executive privilege and, although he continues to fight the Court Order, he recently acknowledged that because of his upcoming battle for re-election, he may accede to the Court’s wishes and release the e-mails. State Republican Chairman Tom Wilson had requested the communications soon after the CWA and the Governor’s Office came to agreement regarding a new contract last year. In May, Superior Court Judge Paul Innes decided that the e-mails constituted public information and ordered them released. While the Governor is concerned that his refusal to turn over the e-mails will be an issue when he runs for re-election, he is missing the bigger picture: his lack of judgment regarding the exchange of the e-mails in the first place.

Love can make people do crazy things, but it is no defense for the Governor’s ineptitude on this issue. Governor Corzine was the former Chairman of Goldman Sachs, one of the most sophisticated investment banks in the world. He later was a United States Senator, only one of a hundred to hold the prestigious post. Finally, he became Governor of New Jersey. A person holding any of these positions should recognize that utmost discretion needs to be used when exchanging e-mails with the head of the State's most powerful union. Furthermore, anyone in such a position must know that one needs to keep one's personal life and one's business life completely separate and devoid of potential conflicts. Finally, anyone with a basic understanding of the right of the public to access government information should recognize that when a government official and a union leader are exchanging e-mails, those e-mails are likely to be deemed public information.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Corzine's E-mail Fiasco: A Profound Lack of Judgment?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Let’s Talk About Energy

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 23:18:00 +0000

As gas prices continue to skyrocket, the "solution" touted by some candidates is a "gas tax holiday," a proposal to eliminate the federal gas tax for a few months, saving the average driver approximately 25 dollars. Thankfully, many critics have risen to the fore to attack the “solution” as a politically expedient, short-sighted meaningless proposal. While the Presidential candidates have been talking about making our nation less dependent on foreign oil, the serious talk about how to go about doing so has been sorely lacking.

In several South American countries, cars are being run on sugar. In others, vegetable oil, soybeans or corn are being used to run their vehicles. Yet, here in the United States we are addicted to foreign oil. Why? Because the oil industry is vast and its purse strings tug at all key members and divisions of the federal government and because automakers do not want to undergo the costs involved to convert automobiles to fuel sources other than gasoline. Add to this the plethora of lobbyists for and against the various alternative energy sources and progress remains stalled.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Let's Talk About Energy.

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Corzine Should Not Count His Chickens…

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:51:00 +0000

With approval ratings hovering in the 30’s, Jon Corzine is preparing to seek a second term as Governor of New Jersey. The lopsided defeat of Rob Andrews might give the Chief of State supreme confidence that a primary challenge will not materialize or will fail miserably. Should a challenge not materialize, Mr. Corzine may feel secure knowing that New Jersey is a blue state that is getting more blue by the day. However, he might possibly be misreading the tea leaves.

Governor Corzine should take little solace from Tuesday’s Primary results. Congressman Andrews ran a 10-week campaign against a long-time and popular incumbent. Should a Democrat decide to run against Corzine, it will be a significantly longer campaign against a one-term Governor with high unfavorables and many new found political enemies. In addition, as long as a Congressman does not run against Corzine, the Congressional delegation will not feel that their political aspirations are being usurped, resulting in a less unified block in favor of the Governor than the tight coalition of Congressmen that backed Senator Lautenberg. The Governor of New Jersey is one of the most powerful chief executives in the country. Most politicians in this State with higher ambitions would like to call Drumthwacket their home. There are plenty of pols itching for a run should the right conditions present themselves.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Corzine Should Not Count His Chickens...

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Is It Back to the House for Andrews?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:56:00 +0000

Watching the campaign of Rob Andrews for the United States Senate has been difficult. Congressman Andrews is an intelligent and thoughtful official who has a keen interest in public policy. By most accounts, he was next in line to run for the Senate when Senator Lautenberg retires in 2014 or for Governor if Governor Corzine decides not to run for re-election in 2009. However, it appears that his impatience and the threat that possibly one of his colleagues might run in 2009 or 2014 encouraged him to get involved this time around. He could have orchestrated a positive issue-based campaign, thereby creating an aura of inevitability for a future run. Or he could have chosen the path he did follow: a harshly negative campaign in which a major loss means political oblivion. Or does it?

Why he chose to go the slash-and-burn-route is anyone’s guess, but after serving a decade-plus in the House of Representatives and the late night commute back from D.C., the Congressman may have outlived his stay at the House and decided it was either up or out. Therefore, he chose to go all out against Senator Lautenberg in an attempt to win a ticket to the upper chamber. On Tuesday, voters decided that for Congressman Andrews, it was not time to move up but rather to move out.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Is It Back to the House for Andrews?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Supporting Darfur at the UN Security Council

noreply@blogger.com (Rep. Scott Garrett) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:00:00 +0000

As the U.S. assumes the presidency of the UN Security Council, President Bush must confront Sudan about its horrific obstructionist behavior and repeated attacks on the civilians in Darfur.

In 2004, the United States declared the atrocities in Darfur to be genocide. More than 400,000 have been killed and an estimated 2.5 million people have been displaced. Unfortunately, the crisis continues to escalate. Since the start of this year, the regime in Khartoum has carried out a series of attacks on civilians, including aerial bombardments of three West Darfur villages, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. In addition, the Government of Sudan has continued to defy four separate UN Security Council Resolutions.

I strongly believe that the violent acts that have been inflicted upon the innocent people of Darfur must come to an end. No one should be forced to experience this terror. I will continue to stand up for the people living in the Darfur region and work to ensure that President Bush and the United Nations hear their cry and fights to protect Darfurians from these unjust acts.

I recently joined Representative Mike Capuano (MA-D) in sending a letter to Bush urging him to confront Sudan about their horrific actions. 55 bipartisan Members joined us and signed the letter. I hope that President Bush hears our cry and stands up for the victims of Darfur.

Rep. Scott Garrett represents the 5th district of New Jersey.

Thoughts on the VP Search

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Thu, 29 May 2008 04:54:00 +0000

During the past few weeks, both John McCain and Barack Obama have begun speaking with possible candidates for the Vice Presidency. They are presumably looking at a variety of factors as well as a background dossier on each individual to ensure to the greatest degree that there are no skeletons in the candidate's closet. What should McCain and Obama each be looking for in a Vice-Presidential running mate?

McCain needs to choose someone who is younger and well-schooled on the economy and other domestic issues. This person should also be acceptable to the religious right and, ideally, be a member of a minority group. Some names that come to mind are Bobby Jindal, the young Governor of Louisiana who is very conservative, has domestic policy experience, and is non-white; Mike Huckabee, the former Presidential candidate who has evangelical backing and comes from a humble, southern background; Charlie Crist, the charismatic Governor of Florida, who has a good grasp of domestic politics, is acceptable to the religious right, and is twenty or so years McCain’s junior; and finally, Mitt Romney, a Morman with strong backing from the right-wing of the Party and solid domestic experience.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Thoughts on the VP Search.

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

The Energy Master Plan

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Mon, 26 May 2008 04:41:00 +0000

The Energy Master Plan
By: Assemblyman Upendra Chivukula

OVERVIEW

Governor Jon Corzine released the Energy Master Plan (EMP) to project the State’s energy outlook. The EMP evaluates a high-level view of energy issues - supply, demand, challenges associated with both supply, demand through the year 2020. Governor’s plan describes two alternatives that the State has on the road to energy issues - the “Business As Usual” scenario and the “Alternative Scenario” scenario.

TWO SCENARIOS

Within the “Business As Usual” scenario, the EMP has listed four substantive challenges:

1. Electricity supply is not keeping up with demand.
2. Energy prices have risen substantially in recent years and this trend is expected to continue.
3. Global Warming and the emission of greenhouse gases are expected to increase.
4. Today, New Jersey has much less authority over the supply and price of electricity than it did before the Electric Discount and Energy Competition Act (EDECA) of 1999.

New Jersey will have to be overcome the challenges identified above between 2008 and the year 2020. The “Business As Usual” scenario includes no State action in those intervening years.

The consequence of inaction is an estimated 60% increase in the total cost of energy consumed in 2020, as compared to 2005, totaling in excess of $26 billion. Greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 are predicted to be 14.5% higher than they were in 2006, thus negating many of the benchmarks established by the recently enacted “Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Act”.

The “Alternative Scenario” however, outlines goals to change the way the State conducts its energy affairs. The “Alternative Scenario” lists five objectives, all involving State action:

1. Maximize energy conservation and efficiency.
2. Reduce New Jersey’s overall peak electricity demand.
3. Stimulate growth in renewable and alternative energy technologies.
4. Develop low-carbon emitting and more efficient power plants in order to close the gap between electricity supply and demand.
5. Invest in clean energy technologies and businesses to stimulate the industry’s growth within the State.

According to the Corzine Administration, implementation of these goals would result in a more secure, efficient, cleaner and safer New Jersey by the year 2020.

While the EMP document does present an alternative to the current state of energy management, decision-makers and key stakeholders need to consider additional avenues:

Financial – The cost of acquiring new technologies, funding rebates and incentives, and providing financing to industry and other economic outlays will be considerable. Further assessing the state of the national economy may also be valuable when formulating future energy policies.

Alternative and Renewable Energy Mix – The EMP document details the Governor’s version of an optimal energy matrix. Is this the right balance of energy options to bring New Jersey safely and efficiently into the second decade of the 21st century?

Green Collar Jobs – As a form of economic stimulation, creating and growing an entire new class of “green” New Jersey-based jobs would universally be considered a positive move. However, ensuring that such an initiative has staying power (either through policy or financial backing) would be of paramount importance.

Less Coal – Moving away from coal-based energy production and instead toward alternative and sustainable sources would help the State meet its commitment to reducing greenhouse gases and alleviate increasing global warming pressures. Currently, this strategy would conflict with PJM Interconnection and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) – the regulatory bodies that most impact the current energy composition of the State. PJM is a regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of electricity in 13 mid-West and Mid-Atlantic States and the District of Columbia. Approximately 51 million Americans receive their power through PJM, including New Jersey residents. FERC is an independent federal agency that regulates the interstate transmission of natural gas, oil, and electricity and associated projects. These two organizations have their own thoughts and methods on energy procurement and distribution which at times, have placed them at odds with New Jersey’s best interests.

The Energy Master Plan has the potential to be one of the most influential roadmap for policy making in the State over the next several years.

Upendra Chivukula represents District 17 and serves as Deputy Speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly.

A Warning to Those Who Exercise Eminent Domain Powers

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Thu, 22 May 2008 04:56:00 +0000

Earlier this month, a three-judge panel upheld a decision awarding $18 million to the Halper family, former owners of a farm in Piscataway, New Jersey, which was taken by the Township through eminent domain. The Halpers had argued that they were entitled to the market value of the property when they had exhausted their legal options in 2004 while the Township sought to pay the family $4.3 million, the value of the property when the condemnation complaint was filed in 1999. The Court found that the Halpers were entitled to the market value of the property in 2004, holding that the legal actions undertaken by the family should not be used against them when determining the appropriate market value of the property.

The Panel’s decision sends a clear message to those who have the power to exercise eminent domain: this kind of procedure can be a financial risk. An entity that exercises the power must now worry a great deal more about an aggrieved property owner launching full-scale litigation to block the property’s sale, not only because of the costs of litigation but because, at least in a positive real estate market, the longer a property owner can drag out the litigation proceedings, the higher the payout from the entity exercising the eminent domain power. The corollary to this for property owners whose property becomes the subject of eminent domain proceedings is that a massive litigation fight might be worth it, not only for the principles involved but for the financial benefits that may accrue.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: A Warning to Those Who Exercise Eminent Domain Powers

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

National Breast Cancer Coalition

noreply@blogger.com (Rep. Scott Garrett) — Tue, 20 May 2008 20:01:00 +0000

Recently, I was honored by the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) with the Certificate of Excellence for supporting legislation which helps fight breast cancer. I am very proud to have the opportunity to work with organizations like the NBCC in hopes of moving closer to a cure and pleased to have a 100 percent voting record with the NBCC.

Breast cancer is a terrible disease—affecting both men and women. Because of its devastating impact I have been a strong advocate promoting breast cancer research. To this end, I have co-sponsored H.R. 1157, the Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act. I am also pleased to be a strong supporter of increased funding for research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

I believe that we have made progress over the last few years fighting breast cancer, but much more can be done. I will continue to work with Congress, the health care facilities in the 5th district of New Jersey and organizations like the NBCC to eradicate breast cancer once and for all.

Rep. Scott Garrett represents the 5th district of New Jersey.

The Debate Over Debates

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 14 May 2008 10:17:00 +0000

Congressman Rob Andrews, who is challenging Senator Frank Lautenberg in the Democratic Primary for the United States Senate in New Jersey, has demanded that Senator Lautenberg debate him seven times before the June Primary. Senator Lautenberg has accepted two debate invitations and declined all others, but has indicated he may agree to additional debates with Congressman Andrews before the Primary. Julie Roginsky, Mr. Lautenberg's campaign spokesperson, has said that the Senator is maintaining a full Senate schedule, which precludes him from participating in many debates. Are both Congressman Andrews and Senator Lautenberg playing politics?

The Senator probably should agree to at least one more debate before the June Primary, but the Congressman’s calls for many debates are inappropriate. When Senator Lautenberg was running against Republican Millicent Fenwick for the same Senate seat, he challenged her to a debate in each of New Jersey’s 21 counties. She agreed to five debates, but the Senator said that was insufficient and accused Ms. Fenwick of not being energetic enough, at the age of 72, to represent the State. However, the Lautenberg-Fenwick race was a general election evolving over many months, while the Lautenberg-Andrews race is a Primary election run over a few weeks. While debates are important and should be undertaken in both primary and general elections, having many debates in a Primary that lasts a few weeks is overreaching and would conceivably benefit only Congressman Andrews.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: The Debate Over Debates

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com

Why Commend Inclan?

editor@thealternativepress.com (Michael Shapiro) — Wed, 07 May 2008 04:12:00 +0000

During the recent trial of David Delle Donna, the Mayor of Guttenberg, New Jersey, one of Governor Corzine’s deputy chiefs of staff, Javier Inclan, testified that he passed envelopes from a bar owner to the Mayor, which he believed to be filled with illegal cash campaign contributions. The Mayor and his wife were convicted on extortion and tax-related charges after being charged with accepting $40,000 worth of illegal gifts from that bar owner.

Is Mr. Inclan being charged, fired, or demoted in some manner? No. Instead, the Governor publicly commended him and a day later, Mr. Inclan resigned, with his pension and benefits fully intact. Yes, you read me right. Rather than publicly admonish Mr. Inclan for his role in this political corruption, the Governor, through his spokesman, Lilo Stanton, stated, "The governor commends Javier his effort and he believes it takes courage to testify in this trial…Javier was testifying in the case for the prosecution against someone who was clearly a convicted felon.” While it may take courage to testify in this trial, should the Governor be commending his deputy chief of staff for doing what any citizen should be doing anyway? Given Mr. Inclan’s role in the whole affair, it would seem that testifying was the very least he could do to aid the prosecution.

Continue reading ShapTalk.com: Why Commend Inclan?

Michael M. Shapiro, founder of ShapTalk.com, is an attorney who resides in New Providence, New Jersey. He currently serves as the Editor of The Alternative Press Contact Mike at mike@shaptalk.com