Troy Talk
Tackling NJ's Affordability Crisis
As the new session of the New Jersey Legislature takes shape, we are reminded of the clear message that was sent by the 2021 electorate as to where the direction of our public policy needs to head in 2022 and beyond. Depending on who you speak to, a wave of frustration, angst, and anger swept parts of the state leading to drastic changes in the composition of the legislative body in both chambers. This begs the question as to what will the response be of policy makers? It’s clear that the status quo is not acceptable. Furthermore, those missing the major underlying message that was sent regarding our state’s affordability problem should be mindful of some of the more shocking outcomes from last November’s election.
The Jan. 6 Insurrection: Accountability and a Reassessment
One year ago today, Americans throughout the country witnessed in real time a violent attack on our nation’s Capitol by a mob of our fellow Americans bent on disrupting the certification process of a duly elected democratic government. It was startling and then shocking to see this unfold as the violent mob, directed explicitly or implicitly by forces who had and continue to stoke a larger anti-democracy movement, ransacked the halls of Congress.
Workforce Development: A Path to Solving the Labor Crunch
Gov. Phil Murphy recently signed a $3 million funding bill for a basic skills training program by the New Jersey Community College Consortium. I sponsored this legislation because it will allow for the expansion of workforce development that New Jersey needs.
December is National Identity Theft Prevention & Awareness Month
As the joy of the holiday season fast approaches, we should bear in mind two elements that could turn happiness into despair. While we've heard much about the supply chain issues (order as early as you can), another culprit is waiting in the wings (or in your computer, more accurately) to harm you. I'm referring to identity theft, and unsurprisingly, December is National Identity Theft Prevention & Awareness Month.
National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week
One week from today we will be celebrating Thanksgiving. I have a friend who says Thanksgiving is his favorite holiday. He suggests that because its defining message lacks overtones — political, cultural, religious — and its basic premise of giving thanks for what we have is universal.
Veterans Day: A Time for Gratitude
On Thursday, Nov. 11, we celebrate Veterans Day, and it is one of the most appropriate times to offer a heartfelt thank you to our veterans for their service and sacrifice. I confess that when I hear someone else say "thank you for your service" to a current or former member of our military, a touch of pride and gratitude wells up.