Quote of the Day: "Gov. Christie is an iceberg coming right at us"

to steer a better course (0.00 / 0)

One could argue that the bigger problem for the Titanic was not the iceberg, but the failure of the crew to detect it in time and take countermeasures, such as changing course. We agree that there is an iceberg out there and re-arranging the deck chairs will not help.

We now have to take countermeasures and advocate for wiser approaches. Students, legislators, NJEA, unions, Fair Share Housing, county/city officials, transit riders, home owners, Blue Jersey writers, and many others all have to continue their protests and provide alternatives.

And that is what is expected of civic-minded citizens.  Aroused people with even more energy and intelligence than the Tea Party can can help to steer a better course.

"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die." - Sen. Ted Kennedy

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by: Bill Orr @ Thu Apr 01, 2010 at 19:32:37 PM UTC

Trenton Cuts (0.00 / 0)

Maybe Trenton should cut the water off to state buildings or put a lien on the State House. I don't think Christie cares about the people of Trenton, other wise he would not leave us with a 20% gap in our budget. You can trim the city's budget all you want but you can't cut services that much. Christie better increase his State Police budget, because there will be no cops left in Trenton.

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by: bluescat1 @ Fri Apr 02, 2010 at 11:14:56 AM UTC

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Take to the streets (0.00 / 0)

Trenton, like our other cities, is the most vulnerable with these budget cuts and is the most hard pressed to reduce services. It is a tough situation.

In my response above I advocate continued protests and presenting alternatives. Trenton, being where the Governor and legislature hang out, is the ideal place for rallies. Trenton, which serves a vulnerable population and many lower/middle income people, has a strong case to make.  

Our governor has shown some small signs of compromise, and the legislature is questioning some of his cuts.

Trentonians should take to the streets, particularly State Street, with placards and raise their voices.
       

"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die." - Sen. Ted Kennedy

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by: Bill Orr @ Fri Apr 02, 2010 at 12:34:14 PM UTC

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Ultimately (0.00 / 0)

speeding in an iceberg-laden ocean was the problem, compounded by such foolish cost-saving measures as not having enough life boats for everyone. Icebergs, of course, are an inevitable fact of nature that can be anticipated.

I think the cold water is about to bring a lot of arrogant people to their senses. Unfortunately, it will be too late for most.

People will disagree with me, but I think the Governor's approach is the right one. The party is over and the band is playing "Nearer My God To Thee."

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by: Teedyuscung @ Fri Apr 02, 2010 at 12:47:54 PM UTC

Arrogant people are wealthier ones (0.00 / 0)

Another problem for the Titanic was shoddy workmanship on a boat that was supposed to be indestructible.  In a rush to complete work lower quality bolts were used which gave way under the the strength of the iceberg.  So yes, there are several problems involved.  

However, the average residents of Trenton are not "arrogant," they are struggling in the midst of the "Great Recession," with reduced home values, savings, and employment possibilities,  and preyed upon by banks and financial institutions.  Investing more resources in Trenton can help them get jobs, help businesses to recover, and help the economy for people living there.

The "arrogant" people are the wealthier ones about to receive a tax break, and don't count on them to help Trenton flourish.  

"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die." - Sen. Ted Kennedy

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by: Bill Orr @ Fri Apr 02, 2010 at 13:13:47 PM UTC

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You are misinformed (0.00 / 0)

People will disagree with me, but I think the Governor's approach is the right one. The party is over and the band is playing "Nearer My God To Thee."

Trenton had it's municipal aid cut like any other municipality, however an additional 44 million which is what the state pays Trenton for in lieu of taxes was also cut. Things could get ugly here, I hope for Trenton sake it doesn't.

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by: bluescat1 @ Fri Apr 02, 2010 at 13:40:50 PM UTC

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Fewer Cuts- More Spending (0.00 / 0)

You say I'm misinformed.  I don't think so, but, "I defend to the death your right to say so."

I am not advocating a wholesale return to the past, rather judicious budget increases to help the most vulnerable and investments in our communities that will help people get jobs and businesses to rebound. NJ continues with the 4th highest unemployment rate.  Some increases in the higher tax brackets on a short-term two-year basis can make this possible without injury to wealthier individuals.

Yes, the governor is cutting other municipalities. However, a more measured approach -  not a penny-smart and pound-foolish one, but investments that help those struggling are what communities across New Jersey need now. See my diary Fewer Cuts - More Spending.  

"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die." - Sen. Ted Kennedy

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by: Bill Orr @ Fri Apr 02, 2010 at 15:21:56 PM UTC

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