http://hobokenrepublicans.com Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:44:00 +0000 http://snappages.com en http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/02/06/we-miss-you-ron http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/02/06/we-miss-you-ron Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:44:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/02/06/we-miss-you-ron
Today marks the 101st birthday of Ronald Wilson Reagan. And now more than ever, we miss him—his warmth, his optimism, and his undying "faith in the ideals of democracy, of free men and free markets, and of the extraordinary possibilities that lie within seemingly ordinary men and women."

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/01/23/2nd-annual-school-choice-night http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/01/23/2nd-annual-school-choice-night Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:56:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/01/23/2nd-annual-school-choice-night
What: 2nd Annual School Choice Night
Where: The Melting Pot (100 Sinatra Drive)
When: Tuesday, January 24, 7:00 PM

We'll hear from Maureen Sullivan, Hoboken's lone reformer (and [...]]]>
What: 2nd Annual School Choice Night
Where: The Melting Pot (100 Sinatra Drive)
When: Tuesday, January 24, 7:00 PM

We'll hear from Maureen Sullivan, Hoboken's lone reformer (and school choice advocate) on the Board of Education.

In addition, we'll have some free appetizers, a cash bar and plenty of lively conversation.

So please come and show your support for a parent's right to choose!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/01/16/i-have-been-to-the-mountaintop http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/01/16/i-have-been-to-the-mountaintop Mon, 16 Jan 2012 20:30:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2012/01/16/i-have-been-to-the-mountaintop
The above was Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s final speech. He was assassinated the following day.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/11/11/happy-veterans-day http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/11/11/happy-veterans-day Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:42:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/11/11/happy-veterans-day THANK YOU. [...]]]>
To all who have proudly worn our nation's uniform: THANK YOU.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/11/08/election-day http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/11/08/election-day Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:14:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/11/08/election-day Remember to Vote Republican

Polls close at 8:00 tonight. (If you're not sure where to vote, click here to find out.) Since we don't have a candidate on the ballot for county freeholder, please "write in" our friend John [...]]]> Remember to Vote Republican

Polls close at 8:00 tonight. (If you're not sure where to vote, click here to find out.) Since we don't have a candidate on the ballot for county freeholder, please "write in" our friend John Forsman. And finally, make sure to vote no on Question #2. Let's hope common sense prevails tonight!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/10/30/rent-control-nightmare http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/10/30/rent-control-nightmare Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:30:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/10/30/rent-control-nightmare radical tenant [...]]]>
Hoboken landlord Fritz Haas describes how a rent-controlled tenant and his lawyer shook him down for more than $100,000. Amendments to our city's rent control ordinance—which the council passed unanimously earlier this year—would limit this kind of abuse. And now radical tenant activists want to repeal these modest reforms. On November 8, please vote 'NO' on Question #2. For more information, visit our friends at www.hobokenmsta.org.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/10/09/conservative-happy-hour http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/10/09/conservative-happy-hour Sun, 09 Oct 2011 10:00:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/10/09/conservative-happy-hour Hudson County Republican Club, we invite you to a night of drinks, fellowship and lively conversation with other reform-minded conservatives (so please, leave your Democrat or RINO friends at home).

- Where: The Melting Pot (100 Sinatra [...]]]> Hudson County Republican Club, we invite you to a night of drinks, fellowship and lively conversation with other reform-minded conservatives (so please, leave your Democrat or RINO friends at home).

- Where: The Melting Pot (100 Sinatra Drive)
- Date: Tuesday, October 18
- Time: 6:30 PM - ???

The Melting Pot is only two blocks from the PATH, so drop in right after work. We hope to see you there!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/09/11/we-remember http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/09/11/we-remember Sun, 11 Sep 2011 11:00:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/09/11/we-remember
And we salute America's men and women in uniform—whose sacrifices have prevented further attacks and made the world a safer [...]]]>
And we salute America's men and women in uniform—whose sacrifices have prevented further attacks and made the world a safer place.

Over 100,000 U.S. troops remain deployed in the war zones of the Middle East. And so on this Patriot Day, our friends in the HCRC are sending "thank you" notes, snacks and care items to U.S. troops stationed overseas. If you'd like to help out, drop in anytime from 12 to 4 PM at 102 Grand Street in Jersey City. Or if you'd like to make a small donation, you can do so here.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/08/27/come-on-irene http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/08/27/come-on-irene Sat, 27 Aug 2011 13:02:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/08/27/come-on-irene Wallace School at 1100 Willow Avenue.

Even if the storm weakens, we may nonetheless see widespread and severe flooding—as deep as five feet in some places. Hurricane or no hurricane, this city floods quite easily.

For those hunkering down in your apartments, you can find sound advice from the city and the feds posted online. And as BigGovernment's Michelle Lancaster reminds us, you should have a way to fight boredom (without Internet, TV or DVD's). She recommends old-fashioned diversions for the kids—and whiskey for adults.

Stay dry, be safe and have fun!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/08/24/local-money-for-family-planning http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/08/24/local-money-for-family-planning Wed, 24 Aug 2011 15:06:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/08/24/local-money-for-family-planning Council to Vote Tonight

Mayor Dawn Zimmer, in a letter dated yesterday, revealed her administration's intent to locally fund Hoboken Family Planning. Never heard of them? Think: Planned [...]]]> Council to Vote Tonight

Mayor Dawn Zimmer, in a letter dated yesterday, revealed her administration's intent to locally fund Hoboken Family Planning. Never heard of them? Think: Planned Parenthood.

Like Planned Parenthood, Hoboken Family Planning is a Title X entity that was recently defunded by Gov. Christie. Now Mayor Zimmer wants to step in with local taxpayer dollars. Pro-life activists across the state have taken notice of Zimmer's proposal, fearing that other pro-choice mayors will follow suit.

Today, New Jersey Right to Life roundly denounced this proposed use of local taxpayer money. And they are right to do so, for it would compel our city's pro-lifers and social conservatives to pay for activities they consider immoral.

It seems to us, however, that even pro-choicers might consider this a needless expenditure of municipal resources—particularly in the face of persistently high local taxes. Whether for moral or fiscal reasons, the council should vote down this spending request.

In the News
Hoboken411, 08/24/11, Zimmer: Your Tax Dollars Will Fund Hoboken "Planned Parenthood"


]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/07/22/youre-invited http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/07/22/youre-invited Fri, 22 Jul 2011 16:36:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/07/22/youre-invited Hudson County Republican Club to Host Bowling Social

We are thrilled to welcome a new, bona fide Republican Club for all of Hudson County! Their first event—a night of fun at Hudson Bayonne Lanes—will take place this Saturday at 7 PM. Here are the key details:

Hudson Bayonne Lanes
One Garfield [...]]]> Hudson County Republican Club to Host Bowling Social

We are thrilled to welcome a new, bona fide Republican Club for all of Hudson County! Their first event—a night of fun at Hudson Bayonne Lanes—will take place this Saturday at 7 PM. Here are the key details:

Hudson Bayonne Lanes
One Garfield Avenue
Jersey City, New Jersey

The price of admission is $20, which includes shoe rental and unlimited bowling. If you'd like to pay in advance, you can do so here.

For a decade now, we've had no party leadership on a county level. The HCRC now exists to fill that void. So come have fun while supporting this important cause!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/07/20/mayor-threatens-eminent-domain http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/07/20/mayor-threatens-eminent-domain Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:33:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/07/20/mayor-threatens-eminent-domain Council to Vote on Resolution Tonight

Mayor Dawn Zimmer today endorsed the use of eminent domain for the creation of a park in the city’s fourth ward. In a memo accompanying her proposed Council to Vote on Resolution Tonight

Mayor Dawn Zimmer today endorsed the use of eminent domain for the creation of a park in the city’s fourth ward. In a memo accompanying her proposed resolution, the mayor asked for the council’s support.

Zimmer went on to profess: “It is my hope that the knowledge that the City would use eminent domain if necessary will create a dynamic in the negotiations that would ironically cause the use of eminent domain to be unnecessary.”

Employing the mayor’s reasoning, we suppose a common thief might say: “It is my hope that sticking a gun to your head will create a dynamic that would ironically prevent me from having to reach into your pocket to snatch your wallet.”

In either scenario, could we really say the property was handed over voluntarily?

Update: The council voted 5 to 4 in support of the mayor's position. Ravi Bhalla, Peter Cunningham, Carol Marsh, David Mello and Tim Occhipinti all voted yes. Theresa Castellano, Jen Giattino, Beth Mason and Mike Russo opposed the resolution.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/06/23/feeling-stimulated http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/06/23/feeling-stimulated Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:29:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/06/23/feeling-stimulated over three million jobs--many of them "shovel ready." More recently, the president over three million jobs--many of them "shovel ready." More recently, the president conceded that a lot of those jobs weren't as "shovel ready" as he initially thought. And now, nearly 2.5 years post-stimulus, U.S. News is reporting that we now have "more idle men and women than at any time since the Great Depression." This video from the NRSC, released on the stimulus' two-year anniversary, really says it all:



]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/21/we-salute-you http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/21/we-salute-you Sat, 21 May 2011 12:20:54 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/21/we-salute-you Happy Armed Forces Day!

Today we salute the men and women of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Thanks for your service to our nation! [...]]]> Happy Armed Forces Day!

Today we salute the men and women of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Thanks for your service to our nation!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/19/kids-first-crack-up http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/19/kids-first-crack-up Thu, 19 May 2011 11:16:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/19/kids-first-crack-up
To whom it may concern,

I would like to send the message to the BoE that it is my position to do every thing we can to keep Mrs. Ohaus. After seeing her production of Hair Spray and seeing her dedication to Alice in Wonderland she is a gem! I must admit at first when I heard of the sleep-overs I was alarmed. But now that I think about it... I don't really care. If the parents say it is ok and the kids want to go - why would you care? The endless blogging is petty and unfair!

Consider being blogged about and slandered, having to keep your head high, still come to work, do a job (at the present time) 6 days a week? She is truly a professional and consider her an educator, friend to all these students.

Most sincerely,

Barbara Bravo, parent

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/17/dictator-relocation http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/17/dictator-relocation Tue, 17 May 2011 11:50:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/17/dictator-relocation


]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/15/happy-birthday-israel http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/15/happy-birthday-israel Sun, 15 May 2011 11:36:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/15/happy-birthday-israel
Since its founding, modern-day Israel has stood as a constant friend of America—and a steady beacon of democracy and modernity in the Middle East.

Israel isn't [...]]]>
Since its founding, modern-day Israel has stood as a constant friend of America—and a steady beacon of democracy and modernity in the Middle East.

Israel isn't perfect. No country is. But it certainly doesn't merit the venom it receives from nations like Iran. Or, for that matter, the editors of the New York Times.

We find much to admire in Israel—its democratic institutions, its market economy, and its cool resolve in the face of terror. Happy 63rd, Israel!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/14/extraordinary http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/14/extraordinary Sat, 14 May 2011 16:36:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/14/extraordinary Report of Tampered Voting Machine in City's Third Ward

We have received a very unusual report of a tampered voting machine in Ward 3, District 3. Peter Henshaw, unsatisfied with the candidates in his ward, was planning to "write in" John Forsman for council. When he attempted to vote on Tuesday, however, there was a makeshift sign [...]]]> Report of Tampered Voting Machine in City's Third Ward

We have received a very unusual report of a tampered voting machine in Ward 3, District 3. Peter Henshaw, unsatisfied with the candidates in his ward, was planning to "write in" John Forsman for council. When he attempted to vote on Tuesday, however, there was a makeshift sign taped over his machine's keypad. The sign read: "PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH."

Assuming the machine was out-of-order, he approached the poll workers for clarification. They explained how they purposefully covered the keypad so as to not "confuse" senior citizens. Then he was advised to just vote for one of the names on the ballot!

Only when Mr. Henshaw questioned the workers' authority to prevent voters from "writing in" candidates did they state that he "clearly" had the right to do so. When Mr. Henshaw further questioned the appropriateness of altering the machine, he was met only with hostility.

We ran this story by a seasoned veteran of numerous political wars and he said he'd never in his life heard of this, calling it "extraordinary."

Mr. Henshaw feels that his rights as a voter were profoundly disrespected—and we concur. Although we're not sure that voter intimidation or disenfranchisement was necessarily the motive here, you don't tamper with the machines—no matter how "pure" your rationale!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/09/war-on-excellence http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/09/war-on-excellence Mon, 09 May 2011 10:06:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/09/war-on-excellence Continuing Persecution of Highly Effective Teachers

On Tuesday night, our school board plans to vote on firing six district employees. Unfortunately, two of our district's best and most beloved educators—Paula Ohaus and Cheng-Yen Hillenbrand—are on the list of the doomed.

Ever since the "Kids First" faction [...]]]> Continuing Persecution of Highly Effective Teachers

On Tuesday night, our school board plans to vote on firing six district employees. Unfortunately, two of our district's best and most beloved educators—Paula Ohaus and Cheng-Yen Hillenbrand—are on the list of the doomed.

Ever since the "Kids First" faction assumed control, they have seemed determined to root out our schools' few remaining centers of excellence (they've already abolished the International Baccalaureate). Tuesday's vote comes after two years of hostility towards Ohaus from the Kids Firsters and their hand-picked superintendents. Evidently, they've been egged on by jealous educators who resent high achievers in a unionized culture that doesn't especially prize hard work, excellence and merit. And now it appears that Hillenbrand has fallen victim to the same mistreatment.

In order to pull off these firings, Superintendent Mark Toback had to fashion a secret deal with Board President Rose Markle and local teachers’ union head Gary Enrico. Toback, who started his job in March, missed the April 30 deadline for not renewing teacher contracts for the next school year. So he negotiated with Enrico and Markle to amend the teachers’ contract and retroactively move the deadline to May 15. It is not known what Enrico got in return for selling out Ohaus and Hillenbrand.

The full board will vote Tuesday night on switching the deadline. Passing this measure would clear a path to vote on the list of teachers to renew for the coming year. Ohaus, director of the high school's widely-acclaimed theater productions, and Hillenbrand, who founded the district's Johns Hopkins Program for Gifted Students, are not on the list. So approving the list means, in effect, firing the two.

To save these teachers—and their respective centers of excellence—please attend Tuesday's 7 PM meeting, located on 1115 Clinton Street. For more information, please contact us via info@hobokenrepublicans.com.

Update: It was another marathon session Tuesday night, as speaker after speaker expressed support for these persecuted educators. The Kids Firsters (Rose Markle, Theresa Minutillo, Ruth McAllister and Irene Sobolov) voted in lockstep to fire them anyway.

In the News
Hoboken411, 05/09/11, Toback and Markle Move to Fire Paula Ohaus

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/05/in-ward-five-vote-abc http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/05/in-ward-five-vote-abc Thu, 05 May 2011 10:17:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/05/in-ward-five-vote-abc (Anybody But Cunningham)

As a candidate in 2007, Peter Cunningham vowed that he wouldn't switch parties if elected. However, as Patch recently noted:

"Cunningham, 47, who switched from being a Republican to being a Democrat in 2009 [...]]]> (Anybody But Cunningham)

As a candidate in 2007, Peter Cunningham vowed that he wouldn't switch parties if elected. However, as Patch recently noted:

"Cunningham, 47, who switched from being a Republican to being a Democrat in 2009 and voted for President Barack Obama, described himself as a moderate Democrat.”

In 2007, Cunningham also vowed to oppose any tax hike. And then, as a councilman, he voted for one.

On the basis of his (now broken) promises, we endorsed Cunningham when he ran four years ago.

Needless to say, we are NOT endorsing him for re-election. As they say, "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."

We are not fooled twice. On Tuesday, vote "ABC" in the fifth ward.

In the News
Hoboken411, 05/09/11, Fifth Ward Battle Cry Is ABC: Anybody But Cunningham

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/02/rot-in-hell http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/02/rot-in-hell Mon, 02 May 2011 10:23:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/05/02/rot-in-hell Daily News really say it all. While the war on Islamist terror must continue, the death of Usama bin Laden is welcome news indeed.

George W. Bush last night issued a statement, rightly hailing a "victory for Americans, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved [...]]]> Daily News really say it all. While the war on Islamist terror must continue, the death of Usama bin Laden is welcome news indeed.

George W. Bush last night issued a statement, rightly hailing a "victory for Americans, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001."

Hats off to our nation's civilian leaders, armed forces, and clandestine services!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/04/18/zimmer-hearts-menendez http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/04/18/zimmer-hearts-menendez Mon, 18 Apr 2011 10:06:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/04/18/zimmer-hearts-menendez ...And Big Government

In a recent, self-pitying statement released to the press, Mayor Dawn Zimmer expresses her frustration that Mayor Brian Stack and other Hudson Dem politicos seldom return her phone calls [...]]]> ...And Big Government

In a recent, self-pitying statement released to the press, Mayor Dawn Zimmer expresses her frustration that Mayor Brian Stack and other Hudson Dem politicos seldom return her phone calls nowadays.

Our mayor is particularly upset that her preferred candidates for Democrat Party committee seats were not awarded the HCDO (aka "the machine") line. Zimmer, who readily accepted the machine's "help" in past election cycles (and only last year ran her committee slate on the HCDO line), is now positioning herself as the sworn enemy of crooked Hudson County "political machinery." And of course, only after the machine failed to endorse her friends in the upcoming Democrat primary.

Another layer of irony: Zimmer then lavishes praise on Sen. Robert Menendez (the very embodiment of Hudson County bossism):

"I had the pleasure of hearing Senator Menendez speak directly from the front lines regarding our Country’s budget negotiations. During his briefing he highlighted the fact that while the debate may appear on the surface to be about money, it is really about our commitment to women’s issues, senior and children’s issues, environmental issues and other core Democratic values. His talk sparked a commitment in me to work as hard as I can to support him on women's and environmental issues in particular."

This head-in-the-sand response to mounting deficit spending is especially disheartening, as the mayor has often paid lip service to fiscal prudence on a state and municipal level. Zimmer should keep in mind that she can't save the city while bankrupting the nation.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/28/rent-control-time-for-repeal http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/28/rent-control-time-for-repeal Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:27:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/28/rent-control-time-for-repeal letter to the editor, from Ron Simoncini of the Mile Square Taxpayers Association:

A New View on Rent Control Is Needed

Dear [...]]]> letter to the editor, from Ron Simoncini of the Mile Square Taxpayers Association:

A New View on Rent Control Is Needed

Dear Editor:

It was two and one half years ago that I first began to understand just how corrosive the rent control ordinance in Hoboken had become, not just to property owners, but to the fiscal health of the city and the condition of the housing stock. In 22 years of opposing rent control, I had never seen a situation remotely as dysfunctional and inequitable as what I found in Hoboken.

Now we are on the verge of the most minimal changes to the ordinance, after a bruising and wearying process, and there remains purely political opposition to reversing the inequities that bad policy and worse administration have wrought. It is not an abrogation of tenant protections to assert the manifest rights of property owners. Hoboken can’t afford that perspective any more in any sense of the word, and the opposition we see is a clear instruction that the paradigm shift is needed.

Tenant leaders fear that passing these amendments should be the beginning of a long-term dismantling of the ordinance. We should only be so lucky.

Ron Simoncini

Our view? Don't amend it. End it!

For More on the Folly of Rent Control: The Concise Encyclopedia of Economics

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/18/another-successful-lincoln-dinner http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/18/another-successful-lincoln-dinner Fri, 18 Feb 2011 07:21:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/18/another-successful-lincoln-dinner THANK YOU.

Headlining this year's event was campaign veteran and renowned pundit Bill Pascoe. Over the years, Bill has:

- Worked for the State Department on Central America
- [...]]]> THANK YOU.

Headlining this year's event was campaign veteran and renowned pundit Bill Pascoe. Over the years, Bill has:

- Worked for the State Department on Central America
- Smuggled money and computers across the Iron Curtain
- Served as chief spokesman and speechwriter for the RNC
- Written a column for the Washington Times
- Hosted a nationally syndicated radio talk show
- Advised political campaigns across the country and even right here in the Mile Square

Bill now serves as Executive Vice President of Citizens for the Republic, a PAC founded by Reagan himself.

In addition, we heard remarks from Tom Bragen (past president of Jersey City's Lincoln Association), local filmmaker Bob Bowdon (creator of The Cartel) as well as School Board Trustee Maureen Sullivan.

Click here for more pictures from last Sunday's event.

In the News
Hoboken Patch, 02/14/11, Local GOP Hosts Dinner for Lincoln
Jersey Journal, 02/09/11, Bill Pascoe to Highlight Hoboken Republicans' Annual Lincoln Dinner

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/11/political-speech-under-attack http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/11/political-speech-under-attack Fri, 11 Feb 2011 11:27:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/11/political-speech-under-attack press conference.

Most of her ideas were harmless enough: sexual harassment training, a ban on [...]]]> press conference.

Most of her ideas were harmless enough: sexual harassment training, a ban on workplace violence (you mean it wasn't banned already?), etc.

The cornerstone of her plans, however, is a severe restriction on political speech in the name of "campaign finance reform." Of course, we've seen this movie before.

Zimmer's law would restrict municipal party committees as well as "out-of-town" Political Action Committees from donating more than $500 to a local candidate. Local PACs that aren't "self-financed" would still be free to give as much as $8,200 to a local candidate. This latter provision was obviously designed to frustrate Councilwoman Beth Mason (one of the mayor's archrivals).

These proposed ordinances raise all kinds of Constitutional issues (freedom of speech and equal protection come to mind). In pushing for these new laws, the mayor is all but inviting yet another costly lawsuit—one the city would almost certainly lose. The council should make sure these "reforms" never see the light of day.

For More on Campaign Finance Reform: Center for Competitive Politics

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/06/happy-100th-president-reagan http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/06/happy-100th-president-reagan Sun, 06 Feb 2011 06:28:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/06/happy-100th-president-reagan


]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/03/pro-school-choice http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/03/pro-school-choice Thu, 03 Feb 2011 14:11:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/02/03/pro-school-choice
We are convinced that school choice is a powerful idea whose time has [...]]]>
We are convinced that school choice is a powerful idea whose time has finally come. Why shouldn't parents choose the kind of education that's most appropriate for their children—whether it comes from a private school, a charter school or a traditional district school?

Not only would more charters (and—dare we hope—vouchers) introduce the salutary effects of market competition to a system that's still fairly monopolistic in nature. They would also save taxpayers money. In these hard fiscal times, school choice offers a pain-free way to do more with less.

In the News
Hudson Reporter, 01/30/11, Hoboken Republicans Celebrate School Choice Week





]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/25/school-choice-night http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/25/school-choice-night Tue, 25 Jan 2011 22:37:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/25/school-choice-night
Date: Wednesday, January 26
Time: 7:00 Pm - 9:00 PM
Venue: 1 Republik (Back Room)
Address: 221 Washington Street (Hoboken)
Free Admission: Cash Bar

Derrell Bradford is the Executive Director of E3 (Excellent Education for Everyone). In addition, he serves as Vice-Chairman of Greater Newark's Black Alliance for Educational Options.

Maureen Sullivan serves on Hoboken's Board of Education, where she is often the lone voice of dissent. She previously had a twenty-year career in journalism, with twelve years as a foreign correspondent.

National School Choice Week is designed to highlight the many benefits of educational freedom. For more information, please visit www.schoolchoiceweek.com.

In the News
Jersey Journal, 01/26/10, Hoboken Republican Club to Host Event in Honor of School Choice Week

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/11/taxpayer-alert http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/11/taxpayer-alert Tue, 11 Jan 2011 13:24:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/11/taxpayer-alert From Maureen Sullivan:

Happy New Year!

I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on some important matters that will come before the School Board on Tuesday. The introduction of the new school budget, the audit of last year's finances, the new superintendent's contract, the departure of interim superintendent Peter [...]]]> From Maureen Sullivan:

Happy New Year!

I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on some important matters that will come before the School Board on Tuesday. The introduction of the new school budget, the audit of last year's finances, the new superintendent's contract, the departure of interim superintendent Peter Carter, and another high-priced junket for board member Frances Rhodes-Kearns are some of the topics on the agenda.

The board has just gotten a look at the proposed 2011-12 budget as well as the audit of the books for 2009-10. Despite claims of a tax cut from Kids First, the schools portion of our tax rate actually increased from 1.176 per $100 assessed value in calendar year 2009 to 1.199 per $100 in calendar year 2010, according to our outside auditors. For a home assessed at $500,000, that's an increase of $115, when we were assured taxes were not going up.

As we move into budget season, it's clear that "creative accounting" is on the agenda once again. Last year, the board approved a budget of $57,882,147. This year, the administration has drawn up a budget of $57,966,973. That's up slightly, by $84,826. But the administration is presenting this as a cut of 4%. That's because it is comparing one year's total expenditures and revenues, which typically exceed our initial budgets by $2 million, with a proposed budget for the upcoming year. If we stick to apples to apples (comparing the proposed budget for this current year with the one beginning July 1), we've got a higher budget on tap for next year, not a lower one. You can see how misleading this is...this year they say they are cutting the budget 4% and last year Kids First said they cut the budget 7%. With this kind of accounting, there won't be a budget at all in a few years.

Last year, I led the charge against the board approval of a $3,000 junket to Chicago for board member Fran Rhodes-Kearns. I lost that vote, but later the county superintendent vetoed the trip. That didn't stop the board's finance committee from going ahead with approval for her to attend a two-day junket in Washington, D.C. next month to learn how to lobby members of Congress. If it's approved on Tuesday, it will cost taxpayers nearly $1,900, including $450 for a business class train trip on the Acela (specifically forbidden by state statute) and more than $540 in hotel charges.
　
Among the topics that she will be getting instruction on is learning how to lobby against members of Congress and the U.S. Dept of Education who "voice support for expanding charters... ." As a board, we certainly have never discussed the idea of one of our board members going to Washington to fight charter schools. I'm not sure if the many Hoboken taxpayers who have their children in charter schools want their tax money going to fight those schools.

And the state has finally approved a contract for new superintendent Mark Toback, one that meets the salary cap of $155,000. The board will vote on it at Tuesday's meeting. Despite overwhelming evidence that the state would not approve a superintendent contract over the new cap, and over my objections, the board pushed ahead with a contract that was nearly $20,000 over the state's mandate. And then the board voted 8-1 to sue the state. Would the state have approved a contract last year that met the cap? I think so.

Interim Supt. Peter Carter will depart the district on Jan. 31 and will be replaced by Asst. Supt. Walter Rusak until Dr. Toback gets released from his current contract and begins here.

I encourage you to attend the meeting, which starts at 7 p.m. in the board office at 1115 Clinton St. There is an opportunity at the beginning of the meeting to discuss agenda items and at the end of the meeting for items not on the agenda. Here is the link to the agenda: http://hoboken.k12.nj.us/files/January%2011%202011%20BOE%20Stated%20Session%20Agenda.pdf.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Best regards,

Maureen Sullivan

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/09/senseless http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/09/senseless Sun, 09 Jan 2011 10:28:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2011/01/09/senseless Reflections on Death in Arizona

A federal judge shot dead. A congresswoman shot in the head, now struggling for her life. Six dead in all, including a nine year old girl.

Our thoughts and prayers, naturally, are with the victims and their families.

John Boehner is right: "An attack on one who serves is an [...]]]> Reflections on Death in Arizona

A federal judge shot dead. A congresswoman shot in the head, now struggling for her life. Six dead in all, including a nine year old girl.

Our thoughts and prayers, naturally, are with the victims and their families.

John Boehner is right: "An attack on one who serves is an attack on all who serve."

And, we might add, the people they represent.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/30/victory-for-taxpayers http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/30/victory-for-taxpayers Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:55:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/30/victory-for-taxpayers Hoboken Republicans Cheer State's Denial of Toback Contract

Responding to news that our state’s Department of Education has refused to approve Mark Toback’s contract, the Hoboken Republican Club today issued the following statement:

“School board trustees are supposed to represent taxpayers’ [...]]]> Hoboken Republicans Cheer State's Denial of Toback Contract

Responding to news that our state’s Department of Education has refused to approve Mark Toback’s contract, the Hoboken Republican Club today issued the following statement:

“School board trustees are supposed to represent taxpayers’ interests to prospective superintendents (not the other way around).

“Yesterday, it was revealed that our school board offered Mark Toback a salary that exceeded the new statewide limit by nearly $20,000. We therefore welcome the state’s decision, which dissident trustee Maureen Sullivan has rightly called a ‘victory’ for local taxpayers.

“Like Sullivan, we are proud to stand with Gov. Christie as he fights to restore fiscal sanity across the state. We urge our Board of Education to start following the Governor’s lead.”

In the News
Jersey Journal, 12-30-10, Hoboken Republicans Come out in Favor of State's Rejection of New Superintendent's Contract

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/24/dont-worry-kids-santas-fine http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/24/dont-worry-kids-santas-fine Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:40:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/24/dont-worry-kids-santas-fine Hoboken Republicans Rebut Menendez Letter

In a new low, Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) released a politicized open letter to Santa Claus yesterday, which may have caused undue worry among good little boys and girls the world over. In his letter, Menendez declares that Santa’s very safety is at risk—despite the [...]]]> Hoboken Republicans Rebut Menendez Letter

In a new low, Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) released a politicized open letter to Santa Claus yesterday, which may have caused undue worry among good little boys and girls the world over. In his letter, Menendez declares that Santa’s very safety is at risk—despite the Senator’s efforts to save Father Christmas from the supposedly catastrophic effects of CO2 emissions (yes, the very same gas that humans exhale, and plants inhale).

Menendez went on to question Santa’s capacity to manufacture and deliver Christmas presents as a result of melting polar ice caps. As the Senator wrote to Santa: “I am worried about your safety and your ability to deliver billions of Christmas gifts if the ice cap on the North Pole no longer stays frozen all year. What will happen to your house, your workshop, the elves' houses and your reindeer barns?”

In response, the Hoboken Republican Club has issued the following statement:

“Sen. Menendez is apparently unaware that polar ice melting is a completely natural phenomenon and certainly not unprecedented—as various photos of submarines floating around the North Pole have attested for more than fifty years. Santa and his crew have survived many years of polar freezing, melting, and refreezing.

“We therefore seek to reassure nice children everywhere that Santa is just fine. They can happily look forward to Santa’s presents for many years to come.

“Merry Christmas!”

In the News
Wall Street Journal, 12-29-10, Global Warming Grinch
National Review, 12-29-10, About that Letter from Sen. Menendez
Fox News, 12-27-10, Naughty or Nice?
Jersey Journal, 12-26-10, Hoboken Republicans Take Swipe at Sen. Menendez over Letter to Santa Claus

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/20/zimmer-quietly-endorses-super-contract http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/20/zimmer-quietly-endorses-super-contract Mon, 20 Dec 2010 18:05:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/20/zimmer-quietly-endorses-super-contract Details Remain Hidden From Taxpayers

Patch.com's Andrew Tavani reported Friday that, according to one of his sources, the Board of Education is seeking to exceed the new statewide cap on [...]]]> Details Remain Hidden From Taxpayers

Patch.com's Andrew Tavani reported Friday that, according to one of his sources, the Board of Education is seeking to exceed the new statewide cap on superintendent pay.

Tavani also revealed that Mayor Zimmer wrote a letter to Governor Christie, in which she claims to "understand and support the need for a cap on salaries." She then quickly proceeds to endorse a contract that apparently exceeds the state's new cap, citing our district's "unique situation."

In her letter to Christie, Zimmer went on to write: "Our School Board is fully committed to the principles of fiscal responsibility that you have championed so effectively."

It isn't yet known if Zimmer maintained a straight face while drafting her letter. Obviously, the board doesn't share the governor's position on limiting superintendent compensation. Nor has the board shown any real interest in paring down overall spending and cutting taxes. In fact, they overwhelmingly voted to not make tax relief a goal for the new year. When, in a prior session, Maureen Sullivan referenced the governor's idea of a voluntary one-year pay freeze for teachers, she was met only with laughter and derision from her fellow board members. So how, then, does this board even remotely share Christie's values?

As evidence of the board’s supposed commitment to fiscal propriety, Zimmer points to the fact that, notwithstanding a reduction in aid from the state, local school taxes were not increased last year. In reality, our district’s cuts in state aid were quite modest in size. And the board averted a tax hike in no small part with a one-shot revenue trick: a textbook leaseback scheme that one of its advocates called—without a trace of irony—“creative accounting.”

It's not even clear that Zimmer herself shares Christie's vision of taxpayer-friendly reform—at least not when it comes to education. When a slate of fiscal conservatives—Christie supporters all—ran for school board this year, Zimmer (sounding more like a union lackey than a reformer) accused them of wanting to "starve the schools."

So much for the content of Zimmer's letter. What of its timing? The letter was dated 12/09/10, and yet we didn't learn of it until 12/17/10—more than a week later. Apparently, neither did several board members.

Meanwhile, we still don’t know the actual salary offered. Sullivan has rightly called for the immediate release of this information. Taxpayers should know exactly how much they are expected to fork over. It's time for a little transparency.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/03/school-board-v-taxpayers http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/03/school-board-v-taxpayers Fri, 03 Dec 2010 20:55:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/12/03/school-board-v-taxpayers voted overwhelmingly (8 to 1) to spend taxpayer money on a lawsuit demanding approval of their proposed superintendent's contract. Only Maureen Sullivan—the board's lone fiscal hawk—voted “no.” [...]]]> voted overwhelmingly (8 to 1) to spend taxpayer money on a lawsuit demanding approval of their proposed superintendent's contract. Only Maureen Sullivan—the board's lone fiscal hawk—voted “no.”

Although Board President Rose Marie Markle freely revealed the contract’s duration, she has remained silent on whether the contract exceeds the state’s new salary cap for superintendents. Unfortunately for taxpayers, signs point to "yes."

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/27/annual-christmas-party http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/27/annual-christmas-party Sat, 27 Nov 2010 13:51:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/27/annual-christmas-party
Date: Thursday, December 9
Time: 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Place: Black Bear Bar and Grill (Upstairs)
Cost: $20

Though not [...]]]>
Date: Thursday, December 9
Time: 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Place: Black Bear Bar and Grill (Upstairs)
Cost: $20

Though not required for admission, we'll happily accept unwrapped toys for children in need. As he does every year, Fernando will personally deliver any toys collected to the U.S. Marine Corps' Toys for Tots Foundation. Last year, he dropped off more than 200 toys!

For more information, or to RSVP, click here. We'll have plenty of music, hot food, a cash bar, and holiday cheer. We hope to see you there!

All the best to you and yours,

The Hoboken Republicans

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/11/happy-veterans-day http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/11/happy-veterans-day Thu, 11 Nov 2010 22:01:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/11/happy-veterans-day THANK YOU. [...]]]>
To all who've served: THANK YOU.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/10/green-tyranny http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/10/green-tyranny Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:50:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/11/10/green-tyranny Here’s a story that offends on so many levels. On Tuesday, students and teachers from All Saints Episcopal Day School visited City Hall. The students (or “environmental warriors,” as their school’s director calls [...]]]> Here’s a story that offends on so many levels. On Tuesday, students and teachers from All Saints Episcopal Day School visited City Hall. The students (or “environmental warriors,” as their school’s director calls them) made a stirring presentation to city officials, in which they decried the evils of—wait for it—flimsy shopping bags (of the kind you’d receive from Shop-Rite or CVS).

According to the “warriors,” flimsy bags threaten our planet’s very survival. As one student put it, the bags are “eating up our earth.” The student went on to claim that many animals have already faced extinction, as a result of the bags.

As it turns out, plastic retail bags have been defamed. And we are here to defend them. In all, they take up a mere 0.04% of landfill space. Furthermore, no animals have been killed off—or face any risk of extinction—as a result of the bags. (To learn more, visit our new friends at savetheplasticbag.com.)

None of this, of course, is the fault of the students. One must question, however, what kind of “education” takes place at All Saints Episcopal Day School. That said, All Saints is a private school, and thus entitled to more leeway than a taxpayer-funded institution.

What’s more worrisome is the reaction of our city’s mayor. She was quick to endorse the students’ call for draconian measures. In the mayor’s own words: “we need to ban the bags.” The mayor explained that she favors a “phased in” response, in which bags would be taxed for a while, and then banned outright.

Even if the bags were a form of eco-vice (and on that point, we’re not convinced), it’s sadly typical of today’s environmentalists to employ coercion, rather than moral suasion, to promote eco-virtue.

Oh, and would it shock you to learn that a driving force behind All Saints' crusade is MY ECO, a "sustainable" bag manufacturer?

Update: The Hudson Reporter is running with the story as well. In addition, they have a poll asking readers if they favor a ban. To vote, click here.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/10/10/no-tax-cut-for-you http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/10/10/no-tax-cut-for-you Sun, 10 Oct 2010 19:35:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/10/10/no-tax-cut-for-you
As we've noted previously, our district spends far more, per student, than most school districts around the state. With over 450 district employees, and well under 2,000 students, perhaps some layoffs are called for.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/19/city-threatens-eminent-domain http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/19/city-threatens-eminent-domain Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:18:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/19/city-threatens-eminent-domain
“In the next 60 days, the city has to decide [...]]]>
“In the next 60 days, the city has to decide what course to take with Hoboken Unleashed and the property owners,” city attorney Michael Kates said.

According to the Hudson Reporter, "Kates said in court that the city has the power of eminent domain and this location is convenient for the city."

Mayor Dawn Zimmer should immediately renounce the use of eminent domain in this case, and instruct Mr. Kates to follow suit.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/13/menendez-vs-retirement-security http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/13/menendez-vs-retirement-security Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:00:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/13/menendez-vs-retirement-security Would you trust this man with your retirement funds?

Senator Robert Menendez was in town yesterday, to mark the 75th anniversary of Social Security. While it's true that many Americans have come to depend upon this entitlement, it's equally true that Social Security is simply Would you trust this man with your retirement funds?

Senator Robert Menendez was in town yesterday, to mark the 75th anniversary of Social Security. While it's true that many Americans have come to depend upon this entitlement, it's equally true that Social Security is simply running out of money. As of this year, the program is now running a deficit. Its "trust fund" (comprised of nothing more than federal IOU's) is expected to run dry in 2037. Clearly, the system is in dire need of reform.

Senator Menendez, however, opposes the very reforms that are needed. At yesterday's media event, he expressed his opposition to the creation of private accounts for younger earners. "Privatizing means taking something that is a guarantee and making it a risk in the market," he said. "We want to see a guaranteed Social Security, not a risky bet on Wall Street."

With the federal government spending money like there's no tomorrow, Social Security hardly feels "guaranteed" for those of us whose retirement years are still decades away. We'd rather have real ownership in private retirement accounts. And we'd happily accept the risks of the market over the promises of a career politician.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/11/taxpayers-as-atms http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/11/taxpayers-as-atms Wed, 11 Aug 2010 06:51:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/11/taxpayers-as-atms Hudson Dem boss wants "his" money, and he wants it now...

At 48 years old, Mark Smith has applied to start collecting $9,000 a month, for life, from the state's pension system. That's in addition to [...]]]> Hudson Dem boss wants "his" money, and he wants it now...

At 48 years old, Mark Smith has applied to start collecting $9,000 a month, for life, from the state's pension system. That's in addition to his current salary of $78,000 as Mayor of Bayonne.

Smith, a former police officer, also chairs the HCDO (aka "the county machine"). Like the party he leads, Smith appears to view taxpayers as his personal ATM.

In related news, the state pension system faces a shortfall of roughly $46 billion.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/08/open-space-tax-cuts-a-statewide-trend http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/08/open-space-tax-cuts-a-statewide-trend Sun, 08 Aug 2010 14:49:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/08/open-space-tax-cuts-a-statewide-trend here and here). [...]]]> here and here). Unfortunately, the mayor and council have thus far opted to keep this tax in place, in full. In the face of persistently high municipal taxes, we hope they'll reconsider. They can now follow the lead of Morris County, Sussex County, and Middlesex County, all of which have seen fit to lower their open space taxes. On a municipal level, Watchung decided last month to suspend collection of its open space tax.

Another reason our city's leaders should revisit the open space tax: it's viewed as one of their own "sacred cows." As a councilwoman, Dawn Zimmer championed this tax. Her steadfast ally, Peter Cunningham, voted for it. We've reached a point, however, where cuts have to be made. It was recently announced that 18 of our city's finest will be laid off. For this, Mayor Zimmer has naturally come under severe criticism—much of it unfair. We've known for quite a while that our police force is in need of downsizing and restructuring. Indeed, we've previously criticized the mayor for not moving fast enough.

Mayor Zimmer is now (rightly) demanding that others make sacrifices in order to pare down municipal spending. The mayor and her allies should demonstrate their willingness to make sacrifices as well. They should now move to ax the open space tax—especially since everyone knows they really don't want to.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/04/candidate-wanted http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/04/candidate-wanted Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:52:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/08/04/candidate-wanted
Following Mayor Cammarano's resignation last summer, Zimmer served as both Acting Mayor and 4th Ward Councilwoman. After winning last fall's [...]]]>
Following Mayor Cammarano's resignation last summer, Zimmer served as both Acting Mayor and 4th Ward Councilwoman. After winning last fall's special mayoral election, she appointed county employee Michael Lenz to fill her newly vacated seat on the council. Now Lenz will have to defend the seat to which he was appointed.

We are of the view that Councilman Lenz does not merit the approval of 4th ward voters. Early this year, he famously declared that Mayor Zimmer and her council allies weren't elected to cut taxes. More recently, he championed the appointment of Tony Soares to a second board seat—running counter to the reform principle of "one person, one position." Even Mayor Zimmer has since distanced herself from the councilman's action.

So far, only Timothy Occhipinti has announced his candidacy to oppose Lenz in the 4th. Though a nice man, it is clear that Occhipinti doesn't share our fiscally conservative values. To cite one example, Occhipinti penned a letter to the editor, opposing Christie's proposed tax cap and "tool kit" for the state's mayors. (To her credit, Mayor Zimmer has endorsed these reforms—despite her prior endorsement of Corzine's reelection.)

It is our hope that a reform-minded fiscal conservative will step up to the plate. The voters of the 4th ward deserve "a choice, not an echo." Please contact us if you're interested in running, or if you know of someone who'd make a fine candidate.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/25/the-yrs-win http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/25/the-yrs-win Sun, 25 Jul 2010 11:17:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/25/the-yrs-win
A decent crowd turned out, in spite of the day's punishing heat. All ticket proceeds were donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. We are told that more than $500 was raised to support our nation's wounded heroes. (If you'd like to make a donation online, you can do so here.)

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/23/eat-one-for-the-gipper http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/23/eat-one-for-the-gipper Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:03:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/23/eat-one-for-the-gipper St. Ann's Festival has arrived. This year's festival will feature musical entertainment every night—and of course, their famous zeppoles.

With Frank Sinatra at his side, Ronald Reagan visited the festival as he was [...]]]> St. Ann's Festival has arrived. This year's festival will feature musical entertainment every night—and of course, their famous zeppoles.

With Frank Sinatra at his side, Ronald Reagan visited the festival as he was campaigning for re-election in 1984. The president explained how they decided to work the stop into his frenetic schedule:

"A few weeks ago I got a letter from a Mr. Santo A. Milici, and even the letterhead was appetizing. It said, 'St. Ann's Festival, A Feast for the Senses.' Nancy saw it, and she said, 'Honey, I think you ought to go to Hoboken.'

"We kept reading, and the letter told about what a great American city Hoboken is—of course, Frank Sinatra had already told me about that—and how you're the most dynamic town in the tri-state area. We read about the outdoor continental cafe and the midway with rides and games and special entertainment. And my staff saw it, and they said, 'Let's go to Hoboken.'

"But I'll tell you what did it. I'll tell you about your secret weapon. I heard about your zeppoles. And so, here I am in Hoboken."

So as you stroll through the festival this weekend, have a zeppole for the Gipper.

Reagan did make a few serious points during his otherwise light-hearted remarks. For instance, he asked:

"Why do some who claim to represent the party of compassion feel no compassion whatsoever for the most helpless among us—the unborn? How can they parade down the street wearing compassion as if it were a cloak made of neon and they have no compassion for the most helpless of God's creatures?"

Does that sound "too conservative" for Democratic Hudson County? Reagan won Hudson County, decisively.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/22/support-the-troops http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/22/support-the-troops Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:25:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/22/support-the-troops
- Saturday, July 24, 1 PM - 4 PM
- Louis A. Ferullo Memorial Field
- 372 Park Avenue, Weehawken

Admission is $5 at the gate. All proceeds will go to the Wounded [...]]]>
- Saturday, July 24, 1 PM - 4 PM
- Louis A. Ferullo Memorial Field
- 372 Park Avenue, Weehawken

Admission is $5 at the gate. All proceeds will go to the Wounded Warrior Project. In the event that you can't make it, please consider making a small donation online.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/09/privatization-task-force http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/09/privatization-task-force Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:15:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/09/privatization-task-force Executive Order #17, which created a statewide Privatization Task Force. The commission, chaired by former U.S. Representative Dick Zimmer, sought to apply the "Yellow Pages Test" to all services rendered by the state. That is, if there's [...]]]> Executive Order #17, which created a statewide Privatization Task Force. The commission, chaired by former U.S. Representative Dick Zimmer, sought to apply the "Yellow Pages Test" to all services rendered by the state. That is, if there's a service listed in the phone directory, the government probably shouldn't be directly providing that service. Instead, the government should contract out the delivery of that service in a transparent, competitive manner. This principle, made famous by former Indianapolis Mayor Stephen Goldsmith (now Deputy Mayor of New York City), has saved taxpayers millions of dollars when implemented in a competent fashion.

Today, the findings of our state's Privatization Task Force are in. As it turns out, various privatization initiatives could save taxpayers at least $210 million annually. In reality, taxpayers would save even more if the commission's recommendations are fully implemented. As the Reason Foundation's Leonard Gilroy (who served as a task force advisor) has explained, their report does not attempt to quantify the value of all recommendations, nor does it estimate revenue yielded from unused state land if sold.

The release of this report constitutes a real victory for the state's taxpayers. It reveals, in concrete terms, how much we're currently overpaying for a plethora of services. As Gilroy notes, the commission's proposals are not self-implementing. They do, however, provide a clear roadmap for a reform-minded administration.

It remains our hope that we can replicate our state's Privatization Task Force on a municipal level. Early this year, Mayor Zimmer indicated that privatization studies were underway. She was loathe to discuss any potential areas for privatization, however. We haven't heard of any developments since. Hopefully, the release of the state's report will provide new impetus to local privatization initiatives.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/04/we-hold-these-truths http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/04/we-hold-these-truths Sun, 04 Jul 2010 11:52:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/07/04/we-hold-these-truths
Amid the fireworks, cookouts, and other festivities, let's pause this [...]]]>
Amid the fireworks, cookouts, and other festivities, let's pause this weekend and reflect upon the principles set forth in our nation's founding documents. More than ever, we need to understand, explain, and defend those ideals. As Ronald Reagan reminded us:

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free."

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/06/30/the-golden-cicada-lives http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/06/30/the-golden-cicada-lives Wed, 30 Jun 2010 07:28:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/06/30/the-golden-cicada-lives
In response, Hoboken Republicans organized a rally in defense of property rights, held at Mr. Tan's Golden Cicada Tavern. Since then, his case received a lot more media attention, which eventually erupted into a media firestorm. In the face of this PR nightmare, Mayor Healy finally came out and called for the city to cease and desist. To thank all of his supporters, Mr. Tan hosted an "appreciation party" at his tavern. He specifically thanked the Hoboken Republicans for their unwavering defense of his constitutional rights.

We then learned that, while the city had opted not to confiscate Mr. Tan's land, he was still not allowed to make any improvements to his property. As part of the city's attempt to steal his land, they downzoned his property to "recreation/open space." Clearly, his rights were still being violated. This is a case that we have followed with interest over the years.

Finally, it appears that common sense has prevailed. The city has reversed the downzoning, allowing Mr. Tan to construct up to five stories on his land. He plans to make the case for a seven story development that would include senior housing. And don't worry, a new and improved Golden Cicada Tavern would remain on the ground level.

If you'd like to check out the Golden Cicada for yourself, it's located on the corner of Grand and Marin in Jersey City, near the Marin Boulevard Light Rail and Grove Street PATH stations. The drinks are cheap, and the dumplings are tasty.


]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/06/14/a-time-for-choosing http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/06/14/a-time-for-choosing Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:26:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/06/14/a-time-for-choosing
These words, from Reagan's classic 1964 speech, are as powerful today as they were forty-six years ago.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/04/19/vote-for-tucker-lin-markevitch-and-forsman http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/04/19/vote-for-tucker-lin-markevitch-and-forsman Mon, 19 Apr 2010 18:11:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/04/19/vote-for-tucker-lin-markevitch-and-forsman
“Tucker, Lin, Markevitch and Forsman are the only candidates I trust to lower my taxes,” explained Peter Morgan, [...]]]>
“Tucker, Lin, Markevitch and Forsman are the only candidates I trust to lower my taxes,” explained Peter Morgan, co-founder of the Hoboken Republicans. “In fact, their opponents aren’t even promising to cut taxes.”

“We spend far more, per student, than most school districts,” Morgan lamented. “And yet, our schools are not first-rate. We need leaders to start putting the interests of students ahead of the unions. Tucker, Lin, Markevitch and Forsman are prepared to stand up for students and taxpayers alike. They understand that our district doesn’t need more taxpayer money—it needs better management.”

In addition to endorsing the “Real Results” team, the Hoboken Republicans urge residents to vote down a budget that Morgan called “more than just bloated.” He asked, “Why does it take $58 million to run a district with fewer than 2,000 K-12 students?”

Polls open on Tuesday, from 2 to 9 PM.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/17/meet-the-candidates http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/17/meet-the-candidates Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:17:20 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/17/meet-the-candidates
Running under the banner of "Real Results," they are promising higher quality education for students, at a lower cost to our city's taxpayers. Their
Running under the banner of "Real Results," they are promising higher quality education for students, at a lower cost to our city's taxpayers. Their campaign site, chock-full of information, is definitely worth reading. You can also sign up for their newsletter, volunteer, or donate online.

On Sunday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, you can meet the candidates on the second floor of Wild Ginger Restaurant, where they are throwing a campaign launch party. Don't miss this opportunity to ask your questions and share your concerns.





]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/15/code-red http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/15/code-red Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:33:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/15/code-red here for the National Republican Congressional Committee's real-time countdown, as well as the latest developments from the House of Representatives.)

"Code Red" is the NRCC's [...]]]> here for the National Republican Congressional Committee's real-time countdown, as well as the latest developments from the House of Representatives.)

"Code Red" is the NRCC's official campaign to alert our countrymen to the Democrats' planned health care takeover. The NRCC is currently spending its scarce resources--which otherwise could have gone to its candidates for office in the fall--to pressure wavering House Democrats to vote "no."

We need 216 "no" votes in the House to defeat this bill. As it stands right now, there are 202 "no" votes, 187 "yes," and 42 undecided. The NRCC has compiled a list of those 42 undecideds, Democrats all. Sadly, our congressman, Albio Sires, is not on that list. He's firmly in the "yes" column. Still, it wouldn't hurt to call his office (202-225-7919) and urge him to vote "no." Your health care freedom is on the line.

If you do call Sires' office, you might want to respectfully point out that, according to a March 12 Associated Press survey, 68% of Garden State residents oppose the bill in its current form, and want lawmakers to start over.



]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/12/the-incredible-shrinking-tax-cut http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/12/the-incredible-shrinking-tax-cut Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:46:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/03/12/the-incredible-shrinking-tax-cut
Voters will recall that Dawn Zimmer campaigned on a "detailed" [...]]]>
Voters will recall that Dawn Zimmer campaigned on a "detailed" 25% tax cut plan. We've known for some time that's not in the cards. On the eve of last year's special election, the state fiscal monitor predicted that we'd at least see an 8% reduction. Now that's not happening, either.

In this past week's city council hearing, we learned that we can expect a tax cut of... drumroll, please... 0.54%. That's one-half of one percent. When candidate Zimmer promised us "change," we didn't realize that she meant a few loose coins.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/28/lets-talk-privatization http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/28/lets-talk-privatization Sun, 28 Feb 2010 08:58:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/28/lets-talk-privatization Mile Square View, Mayor Dawn Zimmer was asked if she considers any municipal services ripe for privatization or outsourcing. To her credit, the mayor revealed that she's in the process of reviewing several [...]]]> Mile Square View, Mayor Dawn Zimmer was asked if she considers any municipal services ripe for privatization or outsourcing. To her credit, the mayor revealed that she's in the process of reviewing several areas of government for privatization. We'd very much like to hear what those areas are. Unfortunately, however, the mayor refused to share that information. She indicated that she'd only discuss potential areas for privatization after "a decision has been made."

This reticence, in our view, is misguided. For starters, the people should know what the mayor is thinking. Moreover, simply mentioning that a municipal service is under consideration for privatization can lead to efficiencies--even if those services are never ultimately privatized. City employees might suddenly realize they don't need quite so many supervisors, for instance. Or smoking breaks, for that matter.

Mayor Zimmer should go even further, and clearly demonstrate that municipal services are costing too much. The most effective way to do that is to simply request price quotes from multiple vendors. Let's find out what private firms can do, at what cost. This would expose, in specific terms, how much we're currently overpaying for municipal services. City employees would then have to compete.

Flint, Michigan, provides one example of this phenomenon. After the mayor received bids from private firms, the union found ways to collect trash for $1.4 million less. As a result, the city decided not to move forward with privatization. The same municipal workers collected Flint's trash. They just did it faster, smarter, and cheaper.

Like Flint, the City of Indianapolis found that sometimes merely threatening privatization prompted city employees to work more productively. Often, however, using a private firm makes sense. Indianapolis saved $15 million when it privatized trash collection. Closer to home, Jersey City under Bret Schundler found ways to save money via privatization. So did Steve Lonegan, in Bogota.

One area Mayor Zimmer ruled out for privatization was the library. We hope that she reconsiders this stance. There is certainly no harm in at least studying privatization, and receiving bids from vendors. The mere process might uncover inefficiencies that current employees could rectify. Or we might find that a private firm could run it at a much lower cost. Explaining her opposition to privatization, the mayor offered her belief that our library is significantly underfunded. In reality, that's all the more reason to consider some form of privatization. A firm could potentially invest some of its own capital as part of a privatization deal. At a minimum, reduced overhead costs would free up tax dollars for needed improvements or purchases.

In the midst of our city's fiscal crisis, there's no reason not to explore privatizing or contracting out municipal services wherever practical. As other cities have demonstrated, there's no reason to stay mum on which services you're thinking of opening up to competition. On the contrary, it sometimes pays to think out loud.

Update: A few have argued that state law doesn't allow privatized library management. As we pointed out in the Revolt forum, however, Jersey City did exactly that. If they could do it, why couldn't we?


]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/27/well-do-ya http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/27/well-do-ya Sat, 27 Feb 2010 09:30:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/27/well-do-ya billboard, with a smiling George W. Bush asking if we miss him yet. Now there's a whole new line of billboard, with a smiling George W. Bush asking if we miss him yet. Now there's a whole new line of merchandise inspired by that question.

We'll be the first to admit it: George W. Bush has a rather mixed record as president. We remain very critical of the domestic overspending that occurred on his watch. That said, Bush did cut taxes. And he clearly loved this country, and was resolutely committed to its defense.

More than a year into Obama's administration, we'd have to say that, yes, we do miss George W. Bush.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/22/save-the-date http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/22/save-the-date Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:49:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/22/save-the-date Sunday, March 28th. We are excited to announce that former Jersey City Mayor (and newly-appointed Commissioner of Education) Bret Schundler will headline this year's event. Stay tuned for more details. In the meantime, please save the date! [...]]]> Sunday, March 28th. We are excited to announce that former Jersey City Mayor (and newly-appointed Commissioner of Education) Bret Schundler will headline this year's event. Stay tuned for more details. In the meantime, please save the date!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/17/the-open-space-tax-revisited http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/17/the-open-space-tax-revisited Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:14:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/17/the-open-space-tax-revisited Mile Square View, Mayor Zimmer was asked if she’d favor suspending or repealing the municipal open space tax. Unfortunately, the mayor stated that she wouldn’t even consider it, despite the [...]]]> Mile Square View, Mayor Zimmer was asked if she’d favor suspending or repealing the municipal open space tax. Unfortunately, the mayor stated that she wouldn’t even consider it, despite the city’s failure to deliver on promises of tax relief. The mayor accurately noted that voters approved the open space tax in a citywide referendum. The city’s hands are not exactly tied, however. That referendum was non-binding. The council still had to vote to enact the tax.

If the mayor feels that we need to consult the voters prior to revisiting the open space tax, fine. Let’s hold another referendum. As we’ve previously written, this tax was approved in a very different political and economic climate than we face today. In these hard times, voters might now have a different opinion.

The champions of the open space tax promised us offsetting spending reductions to neutralize the tax impact. That, obviously, didn't happen. After taxes skyrocketed, Zimmer and her allies then campaigned on a 25% tax cut plan. Now that's not happening, either.

And so, as far as we’re concerned, the least they can do now is move to repeal (or at least suspend) a tax hike they themselves foisted on us (there's no blaming a prior administration, or Trenton, for this one). If they want to fund their pet initiatives, they should find a way to repeal Tripodi's massive tax hike first (or at least achieve that promised 25% reduction). In other words, Mayor Zimmer and her council allies should lead by example — especially if they're planning on asking others to make sacrifices.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/15/gilliard-and-sullivan-renounce-kids-first http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/15/gilliard-and-sullivan-renounce-kids-first Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:07:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/15/gilliard-and-sullivan-renounce-kids-first Hoboken Reporter, explains how she has tried in vain to hold Kids First to their promises of reform:

Dear Editor:

From the minute I took my seat on the school board last April it’s been apparent that my colleagues were not nearly as committed to reform as we had promised during the campaign. For nine months I loyally backed my team in public. But behind closed doors I argued for a tougher stand in union negotiations, a harder line on spending, greater transparency and a commitment to hiring the best people. At almost every step I met stiff resistance. In virtually every case my arguments lost out. Now, following our amateurish search and then the rush to hire an inexperienced superintendent, it’s clear that I must resign from Kids First (the political organization with whom I ran for the board). My fellow board member Carrie Gilliard quit Kids First at Tuesday’s meeting.

In my opinion, the search got off on the wrong foot. When the previous superintendent quit last June, I said the board should hire a headhunting firm that would find top candidates. I envisioned a hunt that would look at executives at, say, KIPP or Teach for America, where Washington’s Michelle Rhee started. I never got a hearing. Instead, I was blindsided at the September meeting with a resolution that the search would start immediately and that the NJ School Boards Association would conduct it. That would largely limit the applicants to NJ public school administrators.

Much of Kids First was fixated on hiring someone – anyone – before the April election to avoid losing that power if it lost control of the board. I thought we should find the best candidate, no matter how long it took. As it happened, the NJSBA presented us with a very shallow pool of candidates. Of 21 who applied, only six were worth interviewing, and two of those soon dropped out. Of the remaining four, only one had ever run a district. Then we conducted a very cursory due diligence.

A trip to Frank Romano’s district was not organized until last Tuesday, after he had already been offered the job. I thought we should heed references from Millburn, but I was told I was just digging up dirt. Then Tuesday I was blindsided again – this time with the news that we were voting to hire Romano that night, although the board and public had been told this was off the agenda. Carrie and I voted no. My main reason is that he doesn’t have the right educational philosophy for our district. Test scores could fall even further. What’s more, his salary and guaranteed raises are far too high.

Volunteering for the school board demands countless hours. We all get some of the myriad decisions wrong. But one thing I can’t get wrong is following the principles on which I was elected: treat the taxpayers’ money as if it were my own, keep the public informed and never forget to put the kids first. I’m not putting together a slate to challenge Kids First in April, but I encourage true reformers to demand accountability and consider running for the board.

Maureen Sullivan

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/12/school-board-news http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/12/school-board-news Fri, 12 Feb 2010 22:55:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/12/school-board-news
Romano was a rather underwhelming candidate, to put it mildly. He certainly didn't merit such a lucrative contract. In our view, the Board of Education has really let taxpayers down. That said, we commend board members Maureen Sullivan and Carrie Gilliard for their dissenting votes.

During that same meeting, the board voted (five in favor, three opposed) to send member Frances Rhodes Kearns on a $2,300 junket to a convention in Chicago. On that particular vote, Theresa Minutillo joined Sullivan and Gilliard in standing up for the taxpayer.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/06/reagans-birthday http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/06/reagans-birthday Sat, 06 Feb 2010 15:29:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/06/reagans-birthday
Today would have been Ronald Reagan's 99th birthday. He is missed, now more than ever. In this present crisis, our national, state, and local officials would do well to ask themselves, "What would Reagan do?"

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/05/rent-control-lawsuit http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/05/rent-control-lawsuit Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:55:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/05/rent-control-lawsuit
In our view, however, it's time to scrap rent control entirely. Not only would this allow the rental market to function properly (allocating housing more efficiently), it would save taxpayers money. We'd save all the money we're currently spending on rent control administration and enforcement. And, of course, we'd protect the taxpayer from these kinds of lawsuits in the future.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/01/lenz-on-taxes http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/01/lenz-on-taxes Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:06:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/02/01/lenz-on-taxes “I don’t think they were elected to reduce taxes.” - Councilman Michael Lenz, 01/30/10, referring to Mayor Dawn Zimmer and her council allies.

Lenz dismissed campaign talk of significantly lower taxes as unrealistic. Instead of cutting taxes, the councilman argued that we should focus on spending tax dollars more [...]]]> “I don’t think they were elected to reduce taxes.” - Councilman Michael Lenz, 01/30/10, referring to Mayor Dawn Zimmer and her council allies.

Lenz dismissed campaign talk of significantly lower taxes as unrealistic. Instead of cutting taxes, the councilman argued that we should focus on spending tax dollars more "carefully."

Contrary to the councilman's "spin," candidate Zimmer promised a 25% tax cut (to view one of her mail pieces, click here). Voters now expect her to deliver. That said, it is our contention that taxes are not truly "cut" until last year's massive tax hike is fully repealed. Otherwise, we are effectively stuck with a permanent tax increase.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/25/33rd-district-report-card http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/25/33rd-district-report-card Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:09:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/25/33rd-district-report-card Americans for Prosperity has released its final report card of the 2008-2009 legislative session. Over fifty key votes were evaluated from a taxpayer's perspective.

We are sorry to report that our district's representatives have utterly failed [...]]]> Americans for Prosperity has released its final report card of the 2008-2009 legislative session. Over fifty key votes were evaluated from a taxpayer's perspective.

We are sorry to report that our district's representatives have utterly failed the taxpayer. In the Assembly, Caridad Rogriguez and Ruben Ramos both earned failing grades. Rodriguez voted in the taxpayer's interest a mere 8% of the time. Ramos fared even worse, with a 2% score. In the Senate, Brian Stack received a paltry 2% score as well. A dual officeholder, Stack also serves as Mayor of Union City.

We'll keep a watchful eye on this tax-and-spend trio, and let you know how they vote in the upcoming session. In the meantime, hold on to your wallets!




]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/24/tripodis-phantom-cuts http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/24/tripodis-phantom-cuts Sun, 24 Jan 2010 06:34:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/24/tripodis-phantom-cuts Mile Square View, Judy Tripodi was asked to explain what ever happened to the layoffs and demotions that were announced early last year.

Tripodi concedes that she never delivered on those promised cost reductions. Her "excuse" for inaction [...]]]> Mile Square View, Judy Tripodi was asked to explain what ever happened to the layoffs and demotions that were announced early last year.

Tripodi concedes that she never delivered on those promised cost reductions. Her "excuse" for inaction makes no sense to us. Tripodi claims that she couldn't follow through in light of Peter Cammarano's arrest. However, she made the layoff and demotion recommendations prior to his election. And yet, Tripodi now maintains that she couldn't lay off city employees after Cammarano's arrest, as she "didn't know who was coming in."

Well, Dawn Zimmer was named Acting Mayor in very short order. She was then duly elected. So why haven't those layoffs been made? Tripodi never directly answers that question.

Whatever the reason, this delay has cost taxpayers perhaps as much as one million dollars so far. It's simply infuriating to learn that, after swiftly hitting us with such a massive tax hike, the state fiscal monitor is now in no particular hurry to downsize government. And neither, apparently, is our mayor.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/23/obama-to-new-york-drop-dead http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/23/obama-to-new-york-drop-dead Sat, 23 Jan 2010 18:23:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/23/obama-to-new-york-drop-dead
In his latest press conference, Mayor Bloomberg blasted Obama's plans, noting that banks are the foundation of New York's economy. In last week's press conference, [...]]]>
In his latest press conference, Mayor Bloomberg blasted Obama's plans, noting that banks are the foundation of New York's economy. In last week's press conference, Bloomberg warned that Obama's new taxes would transform New York into Detroit.

As so many of our residents work in New York's financial sector, these new taxes and regulations are bad for Hoboken, too. Local concerns aside, is this any way to "stimulate" the nation's economy? The market, apparently, doesn't think so. Stocks plummeted after the plans were announced.

In related news, a recent poll found that 77% of investors view Obama as "anti-business."

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/22/haiti-in-crisis http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/22/haiti-in-crisis Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:06:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2010/01/22/haiti-in-crisis
There are, of course, those who seek to politicize these events. And there are sincere differences of opinion when it comes to how we can most effectively assist Haitians, once the initial humanitarian response is over. We are of the view that Haiti needs to shore up its own governing institutions, civil society, and rule of law. Haiti desperately needs more foreign investment, and less foreign aid. Free market reforms would attract much needed capital.

For now, though, Haiti needs the world's help. There is no disputing the immediate need for massive humanitarian aid. If you haven't done so already, please consider making a small donation to your favorite charity today (to support the work of AmeriCares, click here).

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/20/merry-christmas http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/20/merry-christmas Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:58:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/20/merry-christmas
More importantly, we collected over 200 toys for children in need over the course of the past week. Hats off to Fernando Uribe and the Hudson County Young Republicans for planning and executing this year's toy drive. Thanks, everyone, for [...]]]>
More importantly, we collected over 200 toys for children in need over the course of the past week. Hats off to Fernando Uribe and the Hudson County Young Republicans for planning and executing this year's toy drive. Thanks, everyone, for your kind support.

We hope that your holiday season is filled with joy. Here's to a happy and prosperous new year!

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/16/ax-the-tax http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/16/ax-the-tax Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:34:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/16/ax-the-tax
Voters should now have a chance to reconsider this decision. In [...]]]>
Voters should now have a chance to reconsider this decision. In retrospect, the open space tax was marketed to voters in a rather deceptive manner. Slick TV ads promised all kinds of new parks and recreation space. The parks, of course, never materialized. Residents who expressed concern over the burden of higher taxes were reassured that offsetting cuts were on the way. Those promised cuts never materialized, either. Instead, we’ve had to endure massive tax hikes.

If our new mayor and council want to demonstrate their commitment to putting taxpayers first, moving to repeal the open space tax is a fine place to start.

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/14/we-have-a-problem http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/14/we-have-a-problem Mon, 14 Dec 2009 06:53:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/14/we-have-a-problem


Meanwhile, Democrats are proposing that we raise our nation's debt limit by nearly $2 trillion, to a record $14 trillion or so.

Our federal government is literally broke. And yet, we keep hearing calls for more and more federal spending. At a certain point, this house of cards will collapse. As Margaret Thatcher said, "The problem with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people's money."

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/13/annual-christmas-party http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/13/annual-christmas-party Sun, 13 Dec 2009 16:15:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/13/annual-christmas-party
Date: Thursday, December 17th
Time: 7:30 PM - 10:30 [...]]]>
Date: Thursday, December 17th
Time: 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Place: Hoboken Bar and Grill (230 Washington Street)
Cost: $20

We'll gather in the downstairs lounge area. We'll have live music, hot food, and a cash bar.

In addition, please consider bringing along one unwrapped toy. All toys collected will be delivered to Toys for Tots.

We hope to see you on the 17th!

All the best to you and yours,

The Hoboken Republicans

]]> http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/12/grand-opening http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/12/grand-opening Sat, 12 Dec 2009 18:21:00 +0000 http://hobokenrepublicans.com/blog/2009/12/12/grand-opening forum, in which you can post new items, and discuss [...]]]> forum, in which you can post new items, and discuss issues of the day. In addition, you can promote your own events in our community calendar. So please make yourself at home. It is our hope that, with your participation, this new online community will flourish.

]]>