Monday, January 29, 2018

Retrial For Senator Menendez?

March 17, 2018 at 3:25 P.M. Packages of materials, including the essay that appears below, were sent by priority mail to the following recipients:

Justice Samuel Alito
United States Supreme Court
1st Street, NE
Washington, D.C. 20543
USPS Tracking No.: 9505 5142 0130 8076 1446 90.

The Cuban Embassy to the United States of America
2650 16th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
USPS Tracking No.: 9505 5142 0130 8076 1447 06.

Jefferson B. Sessions, Esq.
United States Attorney General
Office of the U.S. Attorney
One St. Andrew's place
New York, N.Y. 10007
USPS Tracking No.: 9505 5142 0130 8076 1446 83. 

March 8, 2018 from 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Water was shut off to my apartment. 

February 6, 2018 at 2:11 P.M. Fire alarms scheduled by Columbia University which owns the building where the Morningside Heights branch of the library is located are taking place as I type these words.

These alarms are usually scheduled exactly when I make use of computers at this branch. 

This curious scheduling pattern seems to apply even when I change my normal writing time. 

The same pattern of practice fire alarms seems to occur when I make use of other branches of the library. 

I have reason to believe that "observers" have accompanied me during my visits to library computers as well as on my daily walks. 

No doubt these "alarms" are coincidental. 

I do not find the "alarms" accompanied by flashing lights disturbing, but rather soothing as I write my texts.  

I believe that persons in New Jersey may be somewhat "alarmed" by a few of my writings. 

As I was walking down the street on Sunday, January 4, 2018, a very large and not very tidy person deliberately and purposefully walked towards and, eventually, collided with me then strolled away as I stood my ground.

I am sure that this was only a coincidence.

Since I have experienced such "encounters" before, however, it may be necessary to make it clear to the person behind this interference that I will not be physically intimidated by anyone in pursuing the truth about my life even if I cannot count on the protection (or any response) from the New York Police Department to my daily reality. ("An Open Letter to Cyrus Vance, Jr., Esq.")  

On January 26, 2018 from about 8:45 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. the allegedly "necessary" or "emergency" work was performed in my apartment by two persons (neither of whom is an electrician, probably, despite statements to the contrary) of moving (or replacing) a fuse box.

No written notice was provided 10 days prior to the work being performed.

I doubt that the legally required permits for work inside a person's apartment were obtained.

Residents of apartments in New York -- whether tenants or owners -- have the same privacy and other rights protected under the law.

Regrettably, I lost a day of writing to this experience. 

I do not believe there was any malice involved in this mishap.

There must be a better way to organize such work in a large building.

With regard to New Jersey, it is annoying to me that persons who, evidently, ADMIT to lying about me (often under oath) along with stealing from me, then covering up their crimes and additional lies after obstructing justice, are deemed fitting members of the judiciary in Hudson County. 

I am referring to Maureen Manteneo (Assignment Judge) and Lourdes Santiago (whose sexual interest in very young women and use of prostitutes alone should preclude her from such a position). 

For Ms. Santiago to refer to any woman as a "filthy whore" after having sex with that woman seems a bit contradictory or, perhaps, a personal confession by Ms. Santiago. 

This is to say nothing, again, concerning these ladies' new lies about me. ("New Jersey's Judges Disgrace America" and "New Jersey's Failed Judiciary.") 

Is this New Jersey's legal "ethics" OAE? Does Ms. Santiago embody the ethics of New Jersey's judiciary? ("New Jersey's 'Ethical' Legal System" and "David Wildstein and Equal Protection of the Laws in New Jersey.") 

The essay that appears below with one hundred sources attached detailing the morally repugnant reality of New Jersey's legal and political systems will be sent with attachments showing continuing computer crimes at these blogs to the following recipients: 

Justice Samuel Alito of the U.S. Supreme Court (known affectionately as the one remaining "Jersey Boy" among the "Brethren"); Jefferson B. Sessions, Esq., the U.S. Attorney General, who may not "recall" these matters some day; and to the Cuban Embassy to the United States of America.

No response to my communications has been received by me from any American official, judge, prosecutor or police officer as of the date of this essay. 

A desperate effort to create a "plausible" cover story in connection with my matters must be under way in Trenton, New Jersey.

Nick Corasanti, "Retrial for a New Jersey Senator is a Midterm Snag for Democrats," The New York Times, January 20, 2018, p. A20. 

Nick Corasanti, "No New Trial For Menendez In Graft Case," The New York Times, February 1, 2018, p. A1.

"The Justice Department announced on Friday that it intended to retry Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey, two months after a jury deadlocked on federal corruption charges against him. The move means Mr. Menendez will have to defend himself again in a year when he is up for reelection." (NYT, 1-20-18, p. A20.)

A (perhaps confused) message is being sent by the Department of Justice (D.O.J.) in this sordid matter: 

First, there are very serious allegations that will not be trivialized or dismissed regardless of political intimidation efforts. 

Bribery cannot be allowed to go unpunished nor can politicians be encouraged to try to get away with what is all too tempting already, that is, translating public political power into private or personal financial gain. ("Is Union City New Jersey Meyer Lansky's Whore House?")   

Second, the tactics used by Mr. Menendez and his sleazy cohorts -- including dubious "friends" in the media -- of politicizing charges in an effort to "change the subject" should not be rewarded.

Third, affiliations developed by Mr. Menendez with now proven con artists and criminals, such as Dr. Salomon Melgen, to say nothing of questionable "record keeping" accompanied by memory lapses suggest "irregularity" at best and criminality or collusion with organized crime at worst. ("Mafia Influence in New Jersey Courts and Politics.")  

This cannot and must not be the sort of person desired in the U.S. Senate or (worse) to serve on the Foreign Relations Committee of that body as an example to the world of U.S. integrity. ("Does Senator Menendez have mafia friends?" and "Senator Bob, the Babe, and the Big Bucks.") 

Mr. Menendez's personal as well as public conduct are now seen to  be far worse than anything alleged much less proven against Donald J. Trump. ("'This is totally amazing!' -- Donald J. Trump.")

Mysteriously, there is little sense of outrage at MSNBC or in the Times about "Boss Bob's" despicable and loathsome conduct in office. ("Menendez Consorts With Underage Prostitutes" and "Menendez Charged With Selling His Office.") 

Mr. Menendez's delight in young prostitutes that is shared with Lourdes Santiago should preclude him from serving in the U.S. Senate and/or from being a member of the legal profession anywhere. ("Wedding Bells Ring For Menendez!" and "More Problems For Menendez -- Tapes!") 

Evidently, such conduct is endorsed by New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics (OAE). ("New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics" and "New Jersey Lawyers' Ethics Farce" then "New Jersey's 'Ethical' Legal System.") 

No wonder New Jersey is referred to as (to put it politely) the "rectum" of the nation and Mr. Menendez as what emerges from it. ("Menendez Jury Undecided; Re-trial Expected.")

"Should Mr. Menendez decide to step down or be convicted and forced to resign, Mr. Murphy [New Jersey's Democrat governor] would appoint a replacement who, depending on the timing, would face reelection this November." (NYT, 1-20-18, p. A20.) 

No judge can "acquit" a criminal defendant, like Mr. Menendez, of his charges.

The trial judge only struck down some counts of the restored indictment as he did before the first trial in this matter. The District Court Judge then recused himself from the second trial probably because, having heard the evidence the first time around, he believes Senator Menendez to be guilty of the remaining 11 charges as do most persons who have not been paid to believe otherwise. ("Was Menendez Bribed to Get a Visa For a Croney?" and "Illegal Payments to Bob Menendez.") 

The D.O.J. has ostensibly appealed the trial judge's current ruling as it did his initial similar determination prior to the first trial. 

The Circuit Courts restored the dismissed counts last time. 

I anticipate that appellate judges would do the same now leaving it for the jury to decide whether Senator Menendez is guilty or the opposite which is a matter they did not determine last time the case was tried. 

Each of the 11 counts of the current indictment against Mr. Menendez may result in a federal prison sentence. 

Justice Department lawyers revealed an unusual level of disgust and anger at the tactics of Mr. Menendez's "spokesperson" ("Tricia Enright" who is sometimes also "Manohla Dargis") as well as with Boss Bob's lawyers together with hinting of lingering allegations of jury tampering in their motion papers:

"Throughout the first trial, however, the defendants invited the jury to nullify the law by making comments and arguments designed to politicize and racialize this case." (NYT, 1-20-18, p. A20.)

A number of persons probably use the name "Tricia Enright" -- no doubt including Mr. Menendez -- and then evaluate their own statements as "journalists" using additional fictitious names in the media. 

Probably John McGill of the OAE arranged for Lourdes Santiago to smear me in the Jersey Journal (or other media) using a fictitious name herself. ("John McGill, Esq., the OAE, and New Jersey Corruption.")  

This action and many others would violate the very ethics standards for attorneys in New Jersey that Mr. McGill and Ms. Santiago were ostensibly upholding. No doubt they then lied about having done these things. ("On Bullshit" and "Law and Ethics in the Soprano State.") 

The OAE does not seem to regard such blatantly underhanded or criminal tactics as conflicts of interest or in any way "unethical" for Mr. Menendez nor for any other attorneys deploying such tactics against anyone. 

OAE lawyers were and are concerned about my ethics, allegedly, despite lacking all ethical awareness or the capacity for truth-telling themselves. ("Is America's Legal Ethics a Lie?" and "New Jersey's Politically-Connected Lawyers On the Tit.") 

Lourdes Santiago slandered me in media sources using these fictitious names because she -- and also Mr. McGill -- lacked the courage (or even decency) to face her victim or to accept responsibility for her vile and false claims much less for her previous criminal actions that included producing fraudulent witnesses and bogus evidence to be used, knowingly, in legal proceedings by her co-conspirator, Mr. McGill, against me. ("New Jersey is America's Legal Toilet" and "New Jersey's Political and Supreme Court Whores.") 

Did you "open your legs" Ms. Santiago? Let us hope not. ("Manohla Dargis Strikes Again!" and "'The Reader': A Movie Review.") 

Naturally the usual statements of support for "Big Bob" from N.J. Democrats appeared in the media. 

Governor Murphy offered a very tepid comment that every person is entitled to a presumption of innocence: 

" ... we are all innocent until proven otherwise." (NYT, 1-20-18, p. A20.) 

This is hardly a ringing endorsement. 

I am confident that Mr. Menendez should be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Some day he will be found guilty of criminal offenses or ethical lapses. ("New Jersey's Filth, Failures, and Flaws.")   

As I completed a draft of this essay the Justice Department dropped further efforts against Mr. Menendez in connection with the Melgen allegations. 

I am experiencing intense computer crime and censorship at library computers as I type these words. 

The Justice Department decision is controversial within the department and painful for many professionals who believe, strongly, that a grave injustice is being done to American taxpayers by abandoning this matter.

There is anger and bitter feelings against Mr. Menendez and his "shady" friends in law enforcement circles. 

Politicizing the F.B.I. and federal prosecutions to protect influential persons, like Bob Menendez, is dangerous and threatens the rule of law. 

It disgusts people that the legal system is this corrupt. 

I will continue to write. 

My opinion of Mr. Menendez has not changed. 

Good luck with the ethics matters and any pending Grand Jury investigation, Mr. Menendez. (Evidently, Mr. Menendez is not out of the woods just yet: Please see the allegations in the media in October of 2022 concerning payoffs to Menendez from a halal provider obtaining exclusive rights from the Egyptian government who may be a secret partner of the N.J. senator from Hudson County.) 

Sources:

Nicolas Pugliese, "Experts: Menendez Case Still Not Dead: But Tossing of 7 Charges May Indicate Problems," The Record, January 29, 2018, p. A1. (Mr. Menendez and Dr. Salomon Melgen "face accusations that they had a corrupt deal under which Melgen gave Menendez luxury travels [sic.] and accomodations [sic.] in exchange for the senator's using his office to help the doctor personally and financially." Among the alleged bribes offered to Menendez were the services of young prostitutes in the Dominican Republic. "Protecting Sex Workers.")

Sara Jerde, "High School Teacher Had Cocaine and Pot For Sale," n.j.com, December 6, 2017, posted to the online edition: http//www.nj.com/bergen ... ("A West New York teacher faces drug distribution charges after police were called to an incident at his home authorities said." In Albio Sires's home town and at the very school where Mr. Sires was a gym teacher alleged drug dealing by teachers and students as well as sexual molestation of students is routine: "Kenneth Furlong, 24, was charged with possessing cocaine and marijuana.")

Michelangelo Conte, "Queens Man Charged With Groping Girl is Registered Sex Offender," Jersey Journal, January 23, 2018, posted to the online edition: http://www.nj.com/journal-news/index ... ("A Bob Menendez supporter LUIS BESCOME, 24, appeared at a detention center in Jersey City on Thursday, January 18, 2018 after being charged with sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl [in Union City]." If you are a child abuser from anywhere in the country New Jersey may be the perfect place for you: "New Jersey Welcomes Child Abusers" and "New Jersey is the Home of Child Molesters.") 

Michelangelo Conte, "Bail-Jumping Trial Starts for Preacher Who Fled After Sex Crime Conviction," Jersey Journal, January 24, 2018, posted to the online edition: http://www.nj.com. ("On Feb. 25, 2015, GREGORIO MARTINEZ, who described himself as a prophet who could speak in tongues, was found guilty of touching the 13-year-old [boy's] genital area and kissing him on the lips inside the mother's minivan on Jan. 12, 2012." Mr. Martinez, being a self-professed "reverend," may be among those "praying" with Senator Menendez during his previous trial so that jurors could witness the spectacle. Mr. Martinez decided to "book" -- as they say in Union City -- meaning to flee the jurisdiction while on bail pending sentencing even leaving the country. Mr. Martinez was re-arrested in Honduras in August, 2016. No miracles have been forthcoming for Mr. Martinez while in custody.)

Caitlin Mota, "Bookeeper Stole $190,000 From Kearny School District: Cops," Jersey Journal, January 24, 2018, posted to the online edition: http://www.nj.com. (In addition to selling drugs in schools and molesting children some N.J. school employees teach with fraudulent credentials -- like MARIA MARTINEZ a.k.a. BARCELO -- while others steal school funds: GINA NERI, 50, of North Arlington is charged with theft by deception for negotiating checks drawn from the Board of Education's account between 2011 and 2017, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez announced.)

Nick Corasanti, ["Big Nicky" Sacco & Jay Romano] "Judge Acquits Menendez of Several Charges," The New York Times, January 25, 2018, p. A25. (Judges do not "acquit" persons who are criminal defendants of charges in deciding pre-trial motions. The majority of the remaining charges against Mr. Menendez have to do with lying to the authorities and accepting bribes. These are crimes for which persons normally go to federal prison if convicted. In connection with allegations of smarmy hypocrisy against Mr. Menendez: " ... prosecutors complained in a separate filing that jurors in the first trial had to walk past Menendez and his supporters occasionally praying in the hallway outside the courtroom." The Record, 1-29-18, p. A6. Can I get an "Amen" for Mr. Menendez's new indictment? Such tactics would certainly result in a mistrial at the state level and sanctions for attorneys or parties making use of these methods.)  

"Patronage Job Recipient Should Resign From the Assembly," (Editorial) The Star-Ledger, January 26, 2018, posted to the online edition http;//www.nj.com ("Another public servant with delusions of adequacy -- a man with a private law practice -- was quietly appointed to a six-figure patronage job by his political pals recently, despite having no tangible qualifications for the position." Does BRIAN RUMPF, ESQ. trade political favors for cold hard cash? If so, is this the definition of a New Jersey lawyer and politician given the example of Mr. Menendez? Were appointments to the bench for Maureen Manteneo and Lourdes Santiago rewards for dirty work against me and others? What names did you give to persons you spoke to behind my back "ladies"? Did you both meet and then sexually molest Marilyn Straus? Or was it only Ms. Santiago who sexually abused Ms. Straus while her victim was under hypnosis or unconscious and thus incapable of legally valid consent? What names did Ms. Manteneo and Ms. Santiago give to Marilyn Straus? "New Jersey's Political and Supreme Court Whores" and "New Jersey's Feces-Covered Supreme Court.")

Nicolas Katzban, "Board Tosses Ethics Claims: State Finds No Conflict For Ridgewood Mayor," The Record, January 3, 2018, p. L1. (After the theft of parking meter funds SUSAN KNUDSEN and other Ridgewood officials have taken to paying their fines with quarters. Conflict of interest and other ethics charges are often "tossed out" to benefit such persons without explanation. The legal ethics system in New Jersey is a clubhouse where much more important than the laws or ethics rules is the politicians or "others" making phone calls behind one's back to the authorities.)

Rodrigo Torrejon, "Zisa Loses Bid for Health Coverage," The Record, September 29, 2017, p. 1L. (The Zisa saga is still not over and more developments are expected in February, 2018. Mr. Zisa, former police chief and Hackensack Municipal Court Judge, is seeking health coverage for life besides multiple pensions after a fraud conviction and other allegations of corruption. The fraud conviction was partially overturned even if ethics charges still apply.)

Nicolas Pugliese, "In Trenton, a Race Toward Adjournment," The Record, January 9, 2018, p. A3. ("Undeterred by a $90 BILLION gap between what New Jersey's public employee pension system has and what it is expected to owe retirees, the Assembly also gave final legislative approval to a bill, S-3620, to help elected officials receive larger and [more numerous] pensions.") 

Adam Goldman & Nicolas Fandos, "F.B.I. Denounces House G.O.P. Push On Secret Memo: A Plea Not to Publish," The New York Times, February 1, 2018, p. A1. (The war between the White House and FBI is resulting in serious harm to a vital law enforcement arm of the federal government. I never imagined defending the FBI or Department of Justice, but many fine government lawyers today are dismayed and dispirited by efforts to control these agencies, politically, in order to turn them into a version of Hitler's "Brown Shirts" loyal exclusively to crypto-fascist forces in American politics and a single politician. Something similar may have been the fate of New Jersey's OAE when the state Supreme Court lost control of that agency. "Little Debbie" Poritz was "out to lunch" as usual. Many observers no longer recognize the United States of America as the paradigmatic "rule of law" nation in the world. "Manifesto For the Unfinished American Revolution.") 

John Yoo, "Fix the FBI Don't Politicize It," (Op-Ed) The New York Times, January 31, 2018, p. A25. (Former Bush torture lawyer and current law professor at Berkeley, John Yoo, is right about the threat to the autonomy of the FBI. Perhaps Mr. Yoo will favor the "torture" or "enhanced interrogation" of Mr. Trump and his cohorts?)

Adam Goldman & Matt Appuzzo, "Deputy at FBI Chided by Trump Leaves Abruptly: Upheaval For Bureau," The New York Times, January 30, 2018, p. A1. ("Andrew G. McCabe abruptly stepped down on Monday as the FBI's deputy director after months of withering criticism from President Trump, telling friends he felt pressure from the head of the bureau to leave, according to two people close to McCabe." A dedicated public servant is humiliated and hounded out of a distinguished career for political purposes. Is this a reminder of Merrick Garland?)

Adam Liptak, "Courts Must Better Police Themselves on Harassment, Chief Justice Says," The New York Times, January 1, 2018, p. A14. (If the distinguished Circuit Judge Alex Kozinsky can be pushed out for suggestive "comments" and/or lewd and inappropriate behavior with women, why is an intellectual mediocrity and sleazebag, Lourdes Santiago, still a Superior Court Judge in Hudson County after doing much worse to many women? "Little Debbie" Poritz? Boss Bob? "Trenton's Nasty Lesbian Love-Fest" and "New Jersey Superior Court Judge is a Child Molester" then "Edward M. De Sear, Esq. and New Jersey's Filth.") 

Nick Corasanti, "Christie's Farewell Offers a Glowing Look Back, With No Apologies," The New York Times, January 10, 2018, p. A18. ("Is truth dead?" and "On Bullshit.") 

"Now Christie Is Just a Bad Memory," (Editorial) The New York Times, January 16, 2018, p. A20. ("A poll taken before the November election by Suffolk University in Boston put [Christie's] approval rating at 14%. You practically need a microscope to find the cohort that [sic.] think he's done a splendid job." Ms. Santiago?)

Richard Correa, "Evidence Ruling Due in Death of Baby: Wayne mom says [evidence] was improperly obtained," The Record, January 31, 2018, p. L1. (Keri Barry is facing additional murder charges for killing her new-born baby. Lesbian so-called "feminist" groups have expressed support for this person claiming that her prosecution "demeans all women and threatens procreative choice." "New Jersey Lesbian Professor Rapes a Disabled Man" and "New Jersey Lesbian Sends Nude Photos to Minor.") 

Kristie Cattafi, "Board Faces Ethics Issue: Complaint: Lodi Schools Hired Trustee's Girlfriend," The Record, January 31, 2018, p. L1. ("LODI -- At his first meeting after being appointed, the school board voted to hire trustee Donald Scorzetti's longtime girlfriend, according to an ethics complaint filed by board member Ryan Cucioni." Mr. Scorzetti is a member of the bar in New Jersey. Compare "Mafia Influence in New Jersey Courts and Politics" with "Senator Bob, the Babe, and the Big Bucks.")  

Curtis Tate, "N.J. Transit: Agency May Miss Safety Deadline -- D.O.T. Chief Says System Installation is Far Behind," The Record, January 31, 2018, p. A1. (" ... the new acting commissioner of transportation cast doubt Tuesday on New Jersey Transit's ability to meet a year-end requirement to install a system to prevent train crashes." Mysteriously, much of the money for this project has "vanished" and new funds may be needed.)

Herb Jackson & Nicolas Pugliese, "Menendez Trial: Senator Acquited [sic.] On Three Charges -- Judge Keeps Other Counts in Play," The Record, January 25, 2018, p. A1. (" ... [District Court Judge Walls] left intact charges connected to luxury trips Menendez took to Paris and the Caribbean." The decision not to try the case again is far from a vindication on the underlying charges, but merely a decision as to the allocation of resources that was, partly, politically motivated. Powerful fellow senators do not wish to become D.O.J. targets. Many persons -- including several jurors and, probably, the trial judge and not only myself -- consider Mr. Menendez guilty of these charges and much worse. There is still a pending Grand Jury investigation in which Mr. Menendez, or persons close to him, are "persons of interest" and also an ethics matter before the Republican-controlled U.S. Senate's Ethics Committee in which Mr. Menendez must defend himself. No doubt Mr. Menendez will seek to put off the ethics matter before the U.S. Senate's Select Committee until after the mid-term election when Democrats may regain control of that body. I believe that Democrats will gain seats in both houses of Congress. Such an eventuality can only help Mr. Menendez with his still mounting legal troubles.)  

Curtis Tate, "Memo: Pay Turned Off N.J. Transit Applicants," The Record, January 9, 2018, p. 1L. (After a number of prominent officials at New Jersey Transit connected to Mr. Christie paid themselves large bonuses days prior to Mr. Christie's departure -- bonuses drawn from the agency's budget -- the remaining funds for "ordinary" workers at N.J. Transit were depleted. I wonder whether some of the "bonus funds" paid out came back to Mr. Christie in the form of cash under the table? Very few young applicants now wish to work for the agency for so little money and such great responsibility. There is always law school kids.)  

Doyle Rice, "16 Disasters Caused $306 BILLION in Damage: Weather, Climate Events Killed at Least 362 [Persons] in U.S.," The Record, January 9, 2018, p. A9. (Directly related to climate warming damage to property and loss of life escalates as the U.S. withdraws from climate control agreements such as the Paris Accords. To his credit Mr. Murphy immediately restored New Jersey government to the international effort to control climate warming despite Mr. Trump's lunacy on this issue.) 

Rodrigo Torrejon, "Accused DPW Boss Retires, to Get Payout: Hackensack Voting On $100,000 Amid Federal Suit," The Record, January 9, 2018, p. 1L. ("HACKENSACK -- A city public works supervisor accused in a federal complaint of racketeering has retired and is expected to collect a six-figure payout for his unused sick and vacation time." Anthony Sedita -- alleged Gambino crime family member -- may go to prison for organized crime activity, but he may also be able to draw several pensions from N.J.'s taxpayers and an award for "ethics" in government bestowed on him by Mr. Menendez.) 

Nicolas Pugliese, "Christie Signs 100 Bills, 'Pocket Vetoes' 50 More," The Record, January 16, 2018, p. A1. (Among the 100 bills signed by Mr. Christie during his final moments in office is a provision to give a small number of "loyal" officials, all Republicans, "better pensions while taking no actions on 50 other [matters.]")

Dustin Racioppi & Nicolas Pugliese, "Challenges All Around," The Record, January 16, 2018, p. A1. (Despite the so-called "accomplishments" of Mr. Christie New Jersey remains the most corrupt jurisdiction in America, a financial disaster burdened with a failed legal system together with public pension accounts that are $90-$100 billion short. Mr. Murphy has promised to legalize marijuana, raise minimum wages to $15 per hour, and offer free community college to all residents of the state. This sounds like the usual "eat all you want and lose weight" kind of promise by N.J. politicians.)

James Perision & Naomi Schaefer-Riley, "Why Today's College Students Love Socialism," (Op-Ed) The Record, January 16, 2018, p. A11. ("A third of Americans and as many as 44% of millennials would prefer to live under a socialist system than a capitalist one," according to something called "The Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation." I cannot blame young people for their turn to socialism. We already have socialism for the very rich now we need it for the rest of the population. No wonder Bernie Sanders is so popular with young people.)

Joe Mallinconico, "$6 Million Development OK'D in Paterson," The Record, January 16, 2018, p. L1. (It is alleged that law firms close to former mayor Joey Torres will be representing developers "based" in Jersey City in this matter. Will a portion of the fees paid to these lawyers make its way to the former mayor or others acting on his behalf to hold for him until Mr. Torres gets out of prison? "Corrupt Law Firms, Senator Bob, and New Jersey Ethics.")

Hannan Adeley, "Hudson County Jail Under Fire Again," The Record, January 19, 2018, p. A3. (The Hudson County jail lives up to its reputation as a "disgrace" -- to quote a federal judge -- for inhuman conditions. Allegedly, pay-offs to the right Hudson County judges -- Ms. Santiago perhaps -- and local prosecutors or cops along with corrections officers will ensure that your favorite inmate is "taken care of" at the facility. I wonder what, if anything, Hudson Prosecutor Esther Suarez is doing about this situation?) 

Curtis Tate, "Ex-Transit Official Seeks Dismissal of Lawsuit: Agency Claims Baretta Misused Company Car," The Record, January 19, 2018, p. A5. (Tod [sic.] Baretta, former chief of compliance [and ethics?] for N.J. Transit is seeking to dismiss a lawsuit against him filed by N.J. Transit alleging -- among other sins -- "misuse" of resources, including Mr. Baretta's state car, to say nothing of other alleged "thefts." According to Mr. Baretta: "Chris Christie said it was O.K." Please see: "Chris Christie Gives a Donor $1 Million of New Jersey Money.') 

Doyle Rice, "2017 Among Warmest Years on Record," The Record, January 19, 2018, p. A10. (As Mr. Trump describes climate warming as a "myth created by China" scientific evidence mounts that the earth is, literally, on fire. If your home were on fire it would not be wise to sit chatting about whether something should be done to put out or control the fire as the flames spread around the premises. In a sense this is exactly what the U.S. is doing by ignoring this global crisis which will not be solved by burning "clean coal.")

Nick Corasanti & Kate Zernike, ["Big Nicky Sacco & Kim Guadagno,] The New York Times, February 5, 2018, p. A16. (Mr. Menendez's friends in New Jersey politics have tried repeatedly to put a positive spin on this ugly criminal litigation against the senator. No matter how you slice or dice it, however, Mr. Menendez has been and will remain forever a person who was a criminal defendant in a federal prosecution; who was never acquitted or exonerated nor in any way "vindicated" on the underlying charges by a jury; and who received the benefit of a lot of "pulled strings" in order to have the matter "dropped" by the Justice Department. Sharpe James was treated very differently for lesser offenses and did his time to say nothing of innocent persons such as Khalif Browder whose very life was lost because of the inequalities in the legal system. The worst allegations concerning underage prostitutes and the identity of the young woman accompanying the senator to Paris and sharing his hotel room -- who was probably also a professional -- were kept from the jury. All this "partying" was on Dr. Melgen's dime of course. The harm women suffer who are sexually exploited seems never to have crossed the senator's mind nor the fact that whether in Paris or Florida, New Jersey or New York, Washington, D.C. or the Dominican Republic with regard to minors -- the sale of sexual services by young women is a crime. Mr. Menendez ADMITS using the services of prostitutes. Dr. Melgen is now a convicted criminal who defrauded tax payers with the help of a N.J. senator working hard to get payments from Medicaid to his "good friend." I have yet to hear an apology from Senator Menendez for the harm done to these young women and to the U.S. Senate as well as the legal profession in New Jersey such as it is by this spectacle of loathsome conduct on the part of a man who should know better. Is this New Jersey's legal ethics Mr. Rabner? Estela De La Cruz? Likewise, Lourdes Santiago has yet to apologize for the sexual exploitation of vulnerable and fragile persons, such as Marilyn Straus and who knows how many others, whom she used sexually and then insulted. For Lourdes Santiago to wear judicial robes or comment on the ethics of anyone borders on sick farce and absurdity. Judge Walls made it clear that he was not going to allow any of the "salacious rumors" -- all confirmed now -- "to work their way into his courtroom," nor what he viewed as "loaded references" to a stay in luxury hotels "with a female friend" by the senator passing the bills along to Dr. Melgen. With all due respect to a fine District Court Judge surely these were matters for the jury to decide as the trier of fact.) 

Julie Roginsky ["Tricia Enright"] & Michael Duhaime, "Julie Defends Menendez. Mike Stands Up for Freelinghuysen. Both Praise Christie?," The Star-Ledger, February 3, 2018, posted to the online edition http://www.nj.com. ("Julie Roginsky" offers a Menendez's spokesperson's defense of Senator Menendez by posing as a "journalist." Ms. Roginsky is one of my readers, I believe, who may be able to identify "Jill Ketchum." I have yet to receive a response to my communications to Tom Moran from anyone at The Star-Ledger. In a nation which claims to have a free press the fear and herd mentality among alleged "journalists" is depressing and scary for the people relying on the media to investigate and speak the truth about controversial matters regardless of the wishes of powerful politicians.)

Tom Moran, "Wounded Menendez Gives Team Trump a Chance in Jersey," (Op-Ed) The Star-Ledger, January 28, 2018, posted to the online edition http://www.nj.com. (Given the unpopularity of President Trump in New Jersey Mr. Menendez or any Democrat is likely to be elected to the senate in November. Senator Menendez is especially popular with deceased voters who turn out in large numbers for senate elections in Hudson County. FBI investigations of Menendez will have little effect on this reality. "Does Senator Menendez have mafia friends?") 

Terrence T. McDonald, "Latest Cop Who Admitted Guilt in Off-Duty Jobs Scheme Tallies to 11," The Jersey Journal, February 3, 2018 posted to the online edition http://www.nj.com. ("NEWARK -- An eleventh Jersey City cop has pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge as part of a federal probe of the city's police department that brought down a former police chief last month." Where were you Esther Suarez? Juan Berrios -- a Bob Menendez supporter -- admitted to accepting more than $34,000 in corrupt payments for off-duty jobs that he did not perform. The total amount in corrupt payments to Jersey City cops is now in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Similar payments and corruption is under investigation in a "secret" federal probe that everyone knows about in Union City, West New York, and North Bergen, New Jersey. Many of the payments are made by lawyers as middle men for organized crime figures and/or local public officials. Money laundering by such lawyers is not unusual. Gilberto Garcia? Jose Ginarte? Herb Klitzner? No doubt judges and prosecutors are, or will be, on the payroll. Is this legal ethics in New Jersey? Are such despicable individuals "ethically" superior to me, OAE? Again: "John McGill, Esq., the OAE, and New Jersey Corruption.")

Terrence T. McDonald, "Firefighter Suspended Without Pay Over Alleged Lewd Incident at Bar," The Jersey Journal, February 3, 2018, posted to the online edition http//www.nj.com. (Jaimi Pappas, a 43-year-old Jersey City firefighter, borrowed a page from Donald J. Trump's book and not only grabbed a woman by her private parts but decided to -- I quote from police reports referenced in the news article -- "rub his exposed penis on her leg in a downtown Jersey City bar" last week. This subtle and charming approach to the fair sex seems to work for Bob Menendez. Mr. Pappas has been charged with criminal sexual contact, lewdness, harassment and, I hope, criminal assault and battery: "It's my Jersey style!" Mr. Pappas said. "Wedding Bells Ring For Menendez!" and "Was Menendez Bribed to Get a Visa For a Croney?")

Nicolas Pugliese, "Some New Jersey Officials Could See Raises: Bill Tackles Long Wait for Judges, Cabinet Officials," The Record, February 3, 2018, p. A1. ("A bipartisan group of state lawmakers has introduced a bill to give salary hikes to judges, cabinet officers, county prosecutors and other officials some of whom have not received a raise in 16 years." These people are doing a wonderful job for the residents of New Jersey. Evidently, as a result of annoying efforts by federal prosecutors to halt corruption, income from bribes has declined for many of these trustworthy public servants in the Garden State. Given New Jersey's budgetary problems, however, this "pay hike" measure -- if approved -- is likely to generate a statewide fiscal crisis. Borrow more Governor Murphy?)   

Jim Walsh, "Feds: Prison Held Child-Porn Network," The Record, February 6, 2018, p. A4. (Convicted child porn producers and consumers were not only enjoying this filth behind bars, but were exporting child porn drawn from the dark web to the outside society for large sums of money. This is hardly possible without the cooperation of the authorities many of whom share a fondness for the same materials. New Jersey officials often protect the child porn industry for a small fee. Allegedly, videos of distinguished members of the bar -- or judges even -- enjoying sex with professionals are available on the "dark web.") 

Richard Cowen, "Tedesco to Seek Reelection as Bergen County Executive," The Record, February 6, 2018, p. 1L. (Jim Tedesco survived allegations of organized crime affiliations by displaying an amazing ability to change sides with shifting political winds. Mr. Tedesco has been "on the tit" for decades.) 

Kaitlyn Kanzler, "Ex-Administrator Loses Teacher Credentials," The Record, February 6, 2018, p. L2. (A former Roxbury High School Vice Principal Robert A. Schneider was sentenced to probation and community service after admitting that he "grabbed a teenage boy's testicles." Mr. Schneider surrendered his "Principal Certificate of Eligibility" and "Teacher of Social Studies Certificate." Claims that he was just being "friendly" were not accepted by the court.) 

Meghan Grant, "Lyndhurst School Chief to Resign: District Reported $1.1 MILLION Deficit Two Months Ago," The Record, February 6, 2018, p. L3. (Shauna De Marco, School Superintendent in Lyndhurst, is resigning after a county audit disclosed a mysterious and unexplained $1.1 million deficit in school funds that somehow escaped her notice. Lyndhurst Board of Education President and "friend" of Ms. De Marco James -- "Jimmy the Weasel" -- Vuono said he "don't know nothing!")

Joe Malinconico, "Acquitted Paterson Teacher Seeks $390,000 in Back Pay and Legal Fees," The Record, January 24, 2018, p. L2. ("A teacher cleared of criminal sex charges involving students is seeking $190,000 in back pay and more than $200,000 in legal fees from the Paterson school district." Resources devoted to the growing child molestation crisis in N.J. schools increase the burden on a nearly bankrupt system that no longer is capable of preparing students for the modern economy even as the legal system is overwhelmed and fails to do its job. New Jersey remains the nation's "legal toilet." To deal with my situation will require federal assistance. Are you in denial, Mr. Rabner and OAE? "Have you no shame Mr. Rabner?")  

"Doomsday Clock Signals Concern," (Editorial) The Record, January 30, 2018, p. 10A. ("On Thursday, the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved its iconic Doomsday Clock to two minutes to midnight, the closest it's been to nuclear war since 1953, at the height of the cold war." Mr. Trump in a Freudian moment expressed the opinion that his nuclear button is "bigger" than that of the North Korean leader. Peace efforts in the Korean peninsula are attempts to smile in the direction of the Americans while making the U.S. irrelevant to the actual conversations and negotiations now taking place between the two Koreas.) 

"Pompton Lakes Plan for Toxics [sic.] Has Risks," (Editorial) The Record, October 2, 2017, p. 11A. (Cancer causing contamination is vaporizing into people's basements in a suburban N.J. community where property values are "plunging" into the proverbial toilet that is the Garden State. Corruption has resulted in failures to enforce environmental laws for decades. In February of 2018 nothing has happened after government promises to "disclose the truth." People are getting sicker, some are dying, and the threat to children in the community is growing as residents continue to be ignored by Trenton officials. "'Michael Clayton': A Movie Review.") 

Herb Jackson & Nicolas Pugliese, "Menendez Trial Focuses On Defining His Constituents," The Record, September 25, 2017, p. 1A. ("To prosecutors, it's pretty clear that Sen. Bob Menendez was not helping a constituent when he used his office to promote the business and personal interest of Salomon Melgen, the Florida eye specialist accused of bribing the senator with luxury travel and more than $700,000 in contributions to party committees and super-PACS." Melgen's Florida location precludes him from claiming direct representation by Senator Menendez. As a federal inmate in February of 2018, Mr. Melgen is well beyond such matters now.) 

Katherine Tapia, "Patersonians Sound Off on Their Disgraced Mayor," The Record, September 25, 2018, p. 1L. (Joey Torres pleads guilty to corruption and is sentenced to 5 years in prison. Mr. Torres is far less culpable than Bob Menendez.)

Nicolas Pugliese, "Judge Scolds Lawyers On Rules: Warns Against Sneaking Evidence," The Record, September 15, 2017, p. 1A. (Given the dishonesty and LYING by Mr. Menendez's lawyers as well as in the chosen and very convenient alleged "ignorance" by New Jersey Supreme Court justices as regards my matters, I can only ask New Jersey lawyers to recall the oaths they once took when sworn in as attorneys -- or even judges -- to uphold the law in the interests of justice and truth. Silence is also often lying. Please stop lying Mr. Rabner. Tell me the truth. "Have you no shame Mr. Rabner?" and "New Jersey's 'Ethical' Legal System.") 

Nicolas Katzban, "Attorney Dismisses Complaints Against Voigt," The Record, September 15, 2017, p. 1L. (Allegations of corruption have arisen, once again, in February of 2018 against James Voigt. Were charges dismissed by legal friends in Hackensack because of the bribery of prosecutors or influence of "friends" of the Councilman? "New Jersey's Politically Connected Lawyers On the Tit.") 

Benjamin Wieser & Vivian Wang, "After Admitting a Lie, a Key Bribery Corruption Witness is Arrested," The Record, February 10, 2018, p. A16. (I wonder whether people who have lied about me under oath and been protected until now will finally be arrested in February, 2018? Maria Martinez? Lourdes Santiago? Lilian Munoz? Luisa Guttierez?) 

Alex M. Geran, "Suit: Trooper Fired Over Killer T-Shirt," The Record, February 8, 2018, p. 5A. (A person's picture on a t-shirt not worn by the officer, but only one of many being sold by a relative of the officer online is hardly grounds for dismissal. Besides, First Amendment principles protect clothing choices as political statements. The offensive image, allegedly, was a picture of Assata Shakur among other "revolutionary" African-American women depicted on a t-shirt. If such a t-shirt is not a political statement what would satisfy the definition under the First Amendment?)

Assata Shakur, Assata: An Autobiography (Conn.: Lawrence Hill & Co., 1987), pp. 244-252 ("New Jersey's Court System"). (Was "David" a.k.a. "Terry Tuchin" among the torturers of Assata Shakur? Was Republican African-American John McGill, Esq. among those targeting Assata Shakur and providing a "front" for very dark and racist forces in New Jersey? How much did you steal from me "David"? Are you an M.D. and Ph.D. "therapist" David a.k.a. "Terry Tuchin"? Did you have anything to do with the Invicta Watch matter "David"? "R. Schnezler"? "An Open Letter to My Torturers in New Jersey Terry Tuchin and Diana Lisa Riccioli.")  

Joe Malinconico, "Fed Case Points to MUA Official: Contractor Admits Guilt in Kickbacks," The Record, February 8, 2018, p. 1L. (Eric Lowe is charged with making $146,000 in payments to a contractor for bogus work in exchange for a portion of these sums coming back under the table by way of kickbacks. "New Jersey Lawyers' Ethics Farce.") 

Stephanie Noda, "Harrington Park Files Lawsuit: Alleges Bias, Retaliation by Chief and Department," The Record, February 8, 2018, p. 2L. (Allegations of corruption against police, municipal prosecutor, and town judge resulted in retaliation against a police officer who is also a whistleblower according to Sgt. Antimi Costagliola. Welcome to the Soprano State. "More Mafia Influence in New Jersey and Anne Milgram is Clueless.")  

Dustin Racioppi, "Big Win For Lottery Runner: Massive Payouts for Private Company Come Despite $103 Million Drop in Ticket Sales," The Record, February 13, 2018, p. 1L. ("The private company that runs New Jersey's lottery is on pace to reap more than $1.4 BILLION in profit -- even as sales slump and the firm has successfully lobbied to lower its promised revenue target for the state by $1 BILLION." Allegations that payoffs to officials explain the continuing protection of the company which, I am sure, denies links to organized crime cannot be confirmed. It is also true that creative accounting practices at this "private company" are such that nearly $200 million dollars collected cannot be "found" or "accounted for" at the moment. Perhaps relatives are doing the accounting. Naturally, this is all very "ethical" according to "Justice" Jaynee LaVecchia: "Law and Ethics in the Soprano State" and "More Mafia Influence in New Jersey Courts and Politics.")

Andrew Taylor & Martin Cunningham, "Deficits Surge in President's $4.4 TRILLION Budget," The Record, February 13, 2018, p. 3A. (Create a budget deficit then insist that cuts to medicaid and social security are necessary to deal with the "gap" between resources and debt resulting from massive tax breaks together with other perks for the wealthiest Americans. "President Trump unveiled a $4.4 trillion budget that heralds an era of $1 TRILLION-plus federal deficits and -- unlike the plan he released last year -- never comes close to promising a balanced ledger after 10 years." "'This is totally amazing!' -- Donald J. Trump.")

Scott Fallon, "Controversial $225 MILLION Exxon Settlement Upheld," The Record, February 13, 2018, p. 4A. (A lawsuit that originally sought $9 BILLION in damages for the people of New Jersey as a result of environmental damage caused by the oil company was settled by Mr. Christie's administration for $225 million which has not been paid by the defendant. Exxon is protected in this absurd settlement; New Jersey's residents are not. Appellate Division Judges provided their "blessings" on this farce. "New Jersey Supreme Court's Implosion" and "New Jersey's Judges Disgrace America.") 

Michael Catalini, "Ex-Pharma Exec. Seeks to Defeat Menendez," The Record, February 13, 2018, p. 7A. (Bob Hugin is bravely running against Mr. Menendez as a Republican in New Jersey. Good luck Mr. Hugin.)

Kaitlyn Kanzler & Joshua Jongsman, "Youth Minister Stole Donations, Police [Say,]" The Record, February 13, 2018, p. 2L. (Sean M. Massaro, possibly one of the persons "praying" with Mr. Menendez, was also "preying" on parishioners whose charitable contributions he was stealing no doubt because God wished him to purchase a Porsche.) 

"Close the Police Rape Loophole," (Editorial) The New York Times, February 13, 2018, p. A20. (Cops raping women is routine. They are often protected by laws that allow for "consensual" sex by police officers with arrested persons. Women are rarely believed when they deny consent. Two N.Y. police officers, for example, arrested an 18-year-old "attractive woman" for "marijuana possession" in Brooklyn on a Saturday night then placed her in a police van. Despite the young lady's screams that were heard by witnesses the cops now claim that the sex was consensual. Sounds like your cup of tea Lourdes Santiago: "Trenton's Nasty Lesbian Love-Fest" and "Jennifer Velez is a Dyke Magnet.")     

Keldy Ortiz, "Female Body Recovered From Hackensack River," The Record, February 12, 2018, p. 2L. (Allegations that the victim is one of Mr. Menendez's girlfriends cannot be confirmed at this time. "Is Senator Menendez a Suspect in Mafia-Political Murder in New Jersey?" and "Does Senator Menendez have mafia friends?") 

Tom Nobile, "Judge to Rule on DPW Worker: Man Detained On Child Sex Charges," The Record, July 17, 2017, p. 1L. (After Michael Potter's arrest an investigation of public employees in New Jersey is about to result in additional arrests for child sexual abuse. New Jersey's rate of sexual abuse of children by public employees is the highest in the nation. Many of the offenders are persons with records that should have precluded them from being hired in the first place. Either the screening mechanisms are inadequate or people in Trenton are being paid-off, as usual, to look the other way. Is this New Jersey's "ethics" in law and government? "Have you no shame Mr. Rabner?") 

Hannan Adeley, "Woman Dies in Hudson County Jail; Second Death in Six Weeks," The Record, July 18, 2017, p. 7A. (Given new problems at this so-called "disgraceful" facility no one is surprised at the deaths of women who it now appears, after forensic investigation, were raped after their deaths at the Hudson County jail. Perhaps Lourdes Santiago will describe these women as "filthy whores"? Maureen Manteneo? Estela De La Cruz? Alexandra Ramirez? This is right up your alley, as it were, "ladies.") 

David M. Zimmer, "Weed Killer Concerns Local Officials," The Record, July 21, 2017, p. 1L. (After recent allegations in Pompton Lakes and North Arlington it turns out that similar claims of lethal carcinogens were made in West Milford, New Jersey concerning a Weed Killer KNOWN to kill people as well as weeds which was seeping into the local drinking water and, allegedly, covered-up by New Jersey officials for months regardless of the danger to innocent persons so as to avoid "embarrassment" for themselves. This sounds just like the OAE and New Jersey's Supreme Court to me. I am sure that many of the responsible officials are lawyers. Please see: "'Michael Clayton': A Movie Review.") 

David M. Halfinger & Isabel Kershner, "Corruption Charges Suggested for Israeli Leader," The New York Times, February 14, 2018, p. A1. (Police have advised the Israeli Attorney General that -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should  be indicted for corruption after his acceptance of over $300,000 from "good friends" who happen to be billionaires with business before the Israeli government. Borrowing a page from Mr. Menendez's book the Israeli leader said: " .. I do everything with one thing in mind -- the good of the country. Not for cigars from a friend, not for media coverage, not for any thing. Only for the good of the state." Will Abbe Lowell, Esq. represent Mr. Netanyahu?)

"No End to Gaza's Misery," (Editorial) The New York Times, February 14, 2018, p. A22. (Gaza has been described as the "world's largest open-air prison" where human beings are starved and personal rights are violated on a daily basis. Perhaps if these poor people in the Palestinian territories gave the Prime Minister $300,000 their human rights would be respected. Has Gaza become Israel's "Warsaw Ghetto"?)

Nick Corasanti, [Jay Romano & "Big Nicky" Sacco,] "'Embarrassed' Ex-Drug Executive Says He'll Run for Menendez's Senate Seat," The New York Times, February 14, 2018, p. A17. (Bob Hugin's exact words are echoed by many persons in New Jersey and have appeared at these blogs: "I'm embarrassed about how people think about New Jersey based on Senator Menendez's behavior." Please see: "Menendez Consorts With Underage Prostitutes" and "Menendez Charged With Selling His Office" then "Does Senator Menendez have mafia friends?")  

Larry Neumeister, "Bomber Gets Life in Prison: Judge Calls N.J. Man 'Clear, Present Danger,'" The Record, February 9, 2018, p. A1. (If you are an international terrorist targeting New York the best place to build a network with the cooperation of corrupt politicians and judges may be New Jersey. Mr. Christie remarked with a gentle belch: "We're stronger than the storm!") 

Curtis Tate, "N.J. Transit Far Short of Finishing Safety System: Report -- Little Progress in Three-Month Period," The Record, February 14, 2018, p. A3. (N.J. Transit has failed to meet its obligation to complete a crash-avoidance system. As usual money is wasted, incompetence is obvious, and residents disgusted by the continuing spectacle of "stumble bums and stooges" placed in positions of importance for political reasons are ignored by courts and government agencies. The sad farce that is N.J.'s legal and political systems -- clowns in the judiciary and crooks heading regulatory agencies as well as prosecutors' offices -- is simply unworthy of America. Most people in such positions in New Jersey would be happier digging ditches: "Law and Ethics in the Soprano State" and "New Jersey's Feces-Covered Supreme Court" then "Deborah T. Poritz and Conduct Unbecoming to the Judiciary in New Jersey.")

William Westhoven, "Medham Twp. Official Resigns After 'Racist' Post," The Record, February 14, 2018, p. A8. (Deputy Mayor Rick Blood resigned Monday after admitting to writing a Facebook post that said: Illegal immigrants were "rabid racoons." Ms. Santiago no doubt objects on behalf of lesbian racoons. Perhaps Mary Marban "concurs" with Mr. Blood. Is there a Mary Marban connection to Kim Guadagno in connection with my life story or these blogs?)   

Doyle Rice, "Unsafe Drinking Water a Problem for Many in U.S.," The Record, February 14, 2018, p. A9. (N.J. leads the nation in fetid drinking water. Fecal matter, steroids, medical waste and other contamination is routinely found floating in the water. This disgusting reality has become symbolic of a state whose legal and political systems are even more befouled than the drinking water by corruption and incompetence along with indifference to the human suffering produced by these "lapses.") 

Kaitlyn Kanzler, "North Bergen Mourns Student: Child Died From Flu-Like Symptoms Over the Weekend," The Record, February 14, 2018, p. L1. (Perhaps the student gulped down some of the "sparkling" drinking water in Hudson County?) 

Sam Roberts, "Geoffrey Hazard, 88, Arbiter of Legal Ethics," The New York Times, January 23, 2018, p. A22. (Professor Hazard of Harvard Law School insisted on the OBLIGATION of state Supreme Courts and justices to "admit and apologize" for errors and/or the crimes of officials that cause suffering to innocent individuals, to tell the "full and complete truth" about such errors, and to do so as quickly as possible in order to meliorate any harm caused by such errors while making adequate amends for such damage as may have been done through delays and cover-ups or lying. Do you agree Ms. Manteneo? This obligation is especially important in any legal ethics matters. "New Jersey's 'Ethical' Legal System" and "John McGill, Esq., the OAE, and New Jersey Corruption" then "New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics.") 

James C. McKinley, Jr., "D.A. Bans Lawyers With Pending Cases From Donating," The New York Times, January 23, 2018, p. A20. (Finally, Mr. Vance was forced to refuse "donations" from attorneys with matters pending before the D.A.'s office. Will I receive the decency of a reply from Mr. Vance? Or must I make a "donation" to Mr. Vance's future campaigns in order to receive the legal protection to which I am entitled as a citizen? Does Mr. Vance require the permission of officials in New Jersey or prominent Jewish persons in Manhattan to do his job for all of the residents of this island? "An Open Letter to Cyrus Vance, Jr.")    

Drew Sherman, "Menendez Gearing Up for the Campaign Trail," (Op-Ed) The Star-Ledger, February 12, 2018, posted to the online edition http:www.nj.com/opinion. ("The facts of the case are not in dispute. Sen. Bob Menendez accepted lavish gifts from a wealthy donor and optometrist [sic.] Dr. Salomon Melgen. Menendez frequently advocated on Melgen's behalf to ease regulation on business dealings, help obtain visas for Melgen's 'acquaintances' and intervened with federal officials in an attempt to rectify a Medicare billing dispute. Melgen was eventually convicted of Medicare fraud, but it was all legal [according to Menendez] because they were 'friends.'")

Jeff Goldman, "Rabbi Charged With Having Sex With 17-Year-Old Girl Forced Into Prostitution," Jersey Journal, February 19, 2018, posted to the online edition http://www.nj.com. ("A New Jersey rabbi was among 30 men who had sex with a teenage girl forced into prostitution by a New York city man and woman who face charges of human trafficking, authorities said." Gabriela Colon, 18, and Richard Ortiz, 23, both from the Bronx, N.Y., were arrested at a motel in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Aryeh Goodman, who runs a religious learning center out of his East Brunswick home, paid to have sex with a 17-year-old girl. Mr. Goodman denies being Barry Albin's rabbi. "Little Debbie" Poritz claimed that "Jews don't commit crimes." I would not be surprised if current N.J. Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart Rabner -- who was once friendly with far worse Jewish offenders like Solomon Dwek -- will come to this rabbi's assistance. Is this conduct "ethical" Mr. Rabner? What do you think "David"? Is it O.K. when Jews do it? "Have you no shame Mr. Rabner?" and "New Jersey Rabbi Charged With Child Molesting.")   

Terrence T. McDonald, "'Serpico-Like Situation' Inside Jersey City Department, Ex-Cop Alleges," Jersey Journal, February 18, 2018 posted to the online edition http://www.nj.com. ("As Jersey City's police department reels from the guilty pleas of 11 people who have admitted taking corrupt payments related to off-duty jobs, a former cop says in a new lawsuit that he was ostracized and eventually fired after reporting an illegal off-duty [job] 10-years ago." Who was behind the cover-up? How long has the Hudson County prosecutor been aware of these "shenanigans" and ignored the matter or facts concerning crimes committed against me? Is it true that the Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez is holding money and personal property that belongs to me? My matters have become a "Serpico-Like Situation" as regards New Jersey's legal profession, judiciary, and legal ethics establishment. Many criminals in Hudson County as well as in Elizabeth, New Jersey often explained that the worst rival criminals they had to worry about as providing competition for their illicit services were the corrupt police officers in  their towns. "Organized Crime Group in New Jersey's State Police" then "New Jersey's KKK Police Shocker" and "New Jersey's 'Ethical' Legal System.")    

Alexis Johnson, "Millburn High's Head Volleyball Coach Charged With Molesting Teen," The Star-Ledger, February 13, 2018, posted by N.J. Advance Media for nj.com. ("Peter Ngyuen, the head volleyball coach for Millburn High School, engaged in sexual acts with a 14-year-old girl after giving the teen alcohol, authorities charged." This is pretty standard conduct by teachers and administrators in New Jersey's schools where pornographic videos have been filmed starring under-age students.) 

Ron Zeitlinger, "Say Camp Counsellor [or Counselor] Had Sex With 14-Year-Old Camper; Bayonne Man Among 79 [Persons] Nationwide Charged With Child Pornography," Jersey Journal, December 2, 2017, posted to the online edition nj.com. ("More than six dozen people, including three from Hudson County and eight from Bergen County have been charged with child pornography offenses." This was a network that exported and sold grotesque child pornography, nationally and internationally, probably with local protection in Hudson and Bergen. No doubt Superior Court Judge Lourdes Santiago is a customer. "14-Year-Old Girl Goes for $500 in Union City, New Jersey" and "New Jersey Superior Court Judge is a Child Molester" and "Edward M. De Sear, Esq. and New Jersey's Filth.")

Terrence T. McDonald, "Questions Remain After County Releases Report on Hudson Jail Deaths, Medical Care," Jersey Journal, February 18, 2018, posted to the online edition nj.com. (Hudson County's commissioned report on jail conditions is an attempt at "denial" of the obvious inhumanity at the facility. Inadequate medical care, thefts of resources intended for inmates, cover-ups of violence victimizing inmates, rapes and other sexual assaults are business as usual. This reality further disgraces one of the most befouled territories in the country with regard to legal as well as political corruption where Maureen Manteneo presides over many judges on the take as Esther Suarez fails in her obligations as prosecutor. "Law and Ethics in the Soprano State" and "Mafia Influence in New Jersey Courts and Politics" then "New Jersey is Lucky Luciano's Havana.")     

James M. O'Neil & Scott Fallon, "The Plume: Mayor's Chance Discovery Tipped Town to Threat," The Record, February 19, 2018, p. A1. (Pompton Lakes Mayor John Simsimer "discovered" three large binders marked "Du Pont." "What the documents described was stunning: a plume of groundwater contaminated with cancer-causing solvents had migrated under an adjacent neighborhood." [emphasis added] This is the proverbial "tip" of the iceberg in New Jersey's notorious cancer alley. The question arises as to how this material came to be placed in a safe to which the key was "lost" in the mayor's office and by whom this action was taken. The so-called "discovery" suggests that a lawsuit may be available against Du Pont and the Municipality as well as the state of New Jersey for incompetence or, more likely, corruption and a cover-up for sitting on this crucial information that has already resulted in suffering and death for many residents. Worse, concealed information and government inaction are likely to continue to kill people for the foreseeable future. A plausible inference is that someone paid off a "previous" administration to "lose" these binders years ago -- and they did so -- only to "discover" them when the truth could no longer be hidden. This sounds like the OAE's cover-up in my situation which was probably designed to protect "Little Debbie" Poritz and other prominent Jewish and Latina lesbians in New Jersey. "Trenton's Nasty Lesbian Love-Fest!" and "New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics.")    

David M. Zimmer, "Ringwood Superfund Work on Groundwater Reviewed: Tests found high concentration of benzene, other CARCINOGENS," The Record, February 19, 2018, p. 1L. (More contaminated groundwater at the "Ringwood Mines Superfund Site" has been recognized. Nothing is happening despite the ostensible "emergency" for residents despite "highly elevated cancer" rates from Passaic to Bergen County. Mr. Menendez is inaccurately described as being from Passaic County. In fact, Mr. Menendez was raised in Union City and now lives in Hoboken. Both of these latter two cities are in Hudson County. Passaic County has enough trouble already. "Does Senator Menendez have mafia friends?")

Meghan Grant, "Former Speaker Leaving Assembly," The Record, February 16, 2018, p. 1L. (Vincent Prieto (D) of Secaucus knows how to translate his political position into the right post-political situation: "Bribery" means a lot of things. I wonder what Mr. Prieto knew about my situation and when he knew it? Getting out of politics may not get you off the hook, Mr. Prieto. "New Jersey Lawyers' Ethics Farce" and "New Jersey's Politically Connected Lawyers On the Tit.")

Christine Hauber, "ICE Lawyer Is Charged in Identity Theft," The New York Times, February 15, 2018, p. A21. (A lawyer appointed, allegedly, with the assistance and recommendation of Mr. Menendez, Raphael A. Sanchez, Esq., has been charged with fraud and identity theft for stealing information from immigrants to be deported in order to obtain their money and property by fraudulent pretenses. This is the sort of "ethical attorney" favored by "Boss Bob" and the OAE over people like me who do not "play ball." This is also the sort of lawyer recruited to go after me by John McGill and the OAE: Edgar Navarete? Gilberto Garcia (who is probably worse)? Mary Anne Kriko? Jose Ginarte? Lourdes Santiago? Nydia Hernansdez? This sounds like a sub-committee for the Hispanic Bar Association in New Jersey. All of these people were friends and hangers-on, allegedly, for Senator Menendez and the Hudson County boys who were looking to score "cookie points" by targeting me. Sleaze and filth is usually rewarded with a judgeship in New Jersey's legal circles. Is this New Jersey's legal ethics Mr. Rabner? "New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics" and "Corrupt Law Firms, Senator Bob, and New Jersey Ethics.")    

Mathew Haag, "ICE Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Theft of Identity," The New York Times, February 16, 2018, p. A23. (Raphael A. Sanchez, Esq. pleaded guilty to stealing immigrants' information in order to "procure by fraudulent means" over $190,000 in commercial goods. This is a lawyer earning six figures per year who finds it necessary to steal from immigrants being deported summarily -- often people in his own ethnic group -- then selling their information, probably on the black market, to additional illegals. Other ICE lawyers have done much the same. There is now an ongoing investigation by the FBI of ICE attorneys. These are politically sensitive positions and appointments for government attorneys. These are lawyers who know politicians, like Mr. Menendez, which leads me to believe that, one way or another, what was stolen from poor migrants was coming back to these politicians either as "contributions" or outright kickbacks. "Was Menendez Bribed to Get a Visa For a Croney?" and "Bribery in Union City New Jersey.")

Sharon La Franiere & Kenneth P. Vogel, "Guilty Plea by Lawyer Broadens Mueller Inquiry," The New York Times, February 21, 2018, p. A1. (Alex van der Zwaan, Esq., former "elite" lawyer at a "whiteshoe" law firm with New York, New Jersey, and D.C. offices, admits to lying to the FBI and Special Prosecutor. This has led to hypocritical condemnations and expressions of concern for the widespread lying, fabrication of evidence, bribery and obstruction of justice routinely engaged in by lawyers and judges in certain locations -- such as New Jersey -- in America: "On Bullshit" and "Is truth dead?" then "New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics" and "John McGill, Esq., the OAE, and New Jersey Corruption.")

David M. Halbfinger, "Allies' Arrests Raise Pressure on Netanyahu," The New York Times, February 21, 2018, p. A1. (Mr. Netanyahu echoed the feelings of Debbie Poritz: "Jews don't commit crimes!") 

Alan Feuer, "After Nearly 15 Years, a Brooklyn Murder Case Could Return to Court," The New York Times, February 21, 2018, p. A24. (John Giuca's murder conviction was overturned because prosecutors withheld exculpatory evidence from defense lawyers. The OAE fraudulently altered recordings and other evidence; lied about committing these and other crimes against me; withheld exculpatory evidence; then lied about this also; sought to obstruct the disclosure of these facts while continuing to lie about me and others; and did much worse in an alleged ETHICS proceeding knowing the daily dangers for innocent members of the public and ignoring the decline in prestige for the legal system that they were meant to protect. I find it impossible to believe that this continuing evil farce between the N.J.'s legal ethics establishment and myself has anything to do with professional ethics. What is this really about Mr. Rabner?)

Scott Fallon & James O'Neill, "Fear and Sorrow: Serious Illnesses Common in Pompton Neighborhood," The Record, February 20, 2018, p. A1. (Incidents of lethal cancers have exploded in Pompton due to MORE carcinogens traced to Du Pont leaks spreading through the community and to "neighboring areas." Despite promises to clean up the mess made by New Jersey government officials and Du Pont executives going back to the late eighties nothing has happened. Inquiries are ignored. Rare cancers are now being detected among children in this community in astonishing numbers. "Law and Ethics in the Soprano State.") 

Joi Agnish, [sic.] "Life After a Loved-One Dies From an Overdose," The Record, February 20, 2018, p. 1L. (Among the factors contributing to the heroin epidemic in New Jersey suburbs is POLICE protection of, and participation in, cartel activities in certain municipalities, such as Union City and West New York to say nothing of Elizabeth. To deal with this problem effectively state authorities will have to clean up -- or get rid of -- organized crime contaminated police officers and their allied judges.)  

Scott Fallon & James O'Neill, "The Next Step?," The Record, February 21, 2018, p. A1. (Is Pompton beyond repair? Have all local officials been bought or intimidated by Du Pont? Why no action as people are dying?)     

Isabel Kershner & David M. Halbfinger, "Netanyahu Case Builds as a Top Aide Turns Witness," The New York Times, February 22, 2018, p. A4. (As events in Israel mirror the unfolding Mueller investigation in Washington, D.C., the two self-proclaimed "law-and-order" leaders of their nations, Mr. Trump and Mr. Netanyahu, face removal from office for possible criminal conduct. "It's fake news," Mr. Trump insists, "fake!") 

Brad Heath & Kevin Johnson, "Attorney Pleads Guilty to LYING to the FBI," The Record, February 21, 2018, p. 11A. (How can Maureen Manteneo, Lourdes Santiago, Luisa Guttierez, John McGill, Alex Booth, Edgar Navarete, or Maria Martinez a.k.a. Barcelo -- who all may have lied about me to the authorities -- remain passive and comfortable in their positions? These are people who presumed to judge my ethics when lying under oath is a crime last time I checked? Were these persons instructed to lie by N.J. public officials and judges? Is this New Jersey's legal ethics Mr. Rabner?)  

Alan Feuer, "A Muddle, A Conviction and Doubt: 15 years after a college student was killed, the case remains muddled and a jailed man remains in limbo," The New York Times, "Sunday Metropolitan Edition," February 25, 2018, p. 1. (John Giuca's conviction for the murder of Mark S. Fisher has been thrown out, but prosecutors vow to re-try the now "exonerated" defendant refusing to agree upon or to accept his release on bail. Often prosecutors aware of the exoneration of incarcerated defendants, or made aware of possible factual innocence, refuse to allow for the release of such individuals, delay and obstruct legal proceedings, deliberately, so that innocent persons will be forced to die in prisons before receiving justice. That is not unethical behavior by prosecutors according to the OAE. Anne Rodgers? "Larry Peterson Cleared by DNA.")

Kenneth P. Vogel & Mathew Goldstein, "Mueller Investigation Exposes Quiet Sideline Pursued by Law Firm," The New York Times, "National News Section," February 25, 2018, p. A15. (Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher and Flom, Esqs. is the ultimate establishment law firm with a creative sideline representing foreign figures and their lobbyists. Perhaps Al Qaeda and ISIS or Mr. Putin are clients? Is their money green? Alex van der Zwaan, Esq. will probably not be disbarred for lying to the FBI and may well be on his way to a judgeship if he wants it. Naturally, this "prestigious" law firm has a lovely office in New Jersey. Menlo Park? No doubt McCarter and English is right next door. Also located nearby is Wilentz, Goldman and "Spritzer" Esqs.) 

Alan Feuer, "A Former Top Nassau County Official is Charged With Lying and Obstruction," The New York Times, February 23, 2018, p. A19. (Richard Walker, yet another distinguished attorney, accepted $5,000 from a contractor and tried to return the money when he was caught. This is apparently in the tradition of Edward P. Mangano former County Executive. N.J. Superior Court Judge Maureen Manteneo, allegedly, confirmed that, as I had informed her, a woman who claimed to be the daughter of a former client of mine, who actually had no daughter, was lying at the behest of Lourdes Santiago, Esq. and John McGill, Esq. as well as others and for a cash fee in ethics proceedings against me. Ms. Manteneo then LIED and covered-up this fact allowing the fraudulent witness to testify, falsely, under oath to the New Jersey Supreme Court which has been aware of this crime for some time. Withdrawing from the matter is irrelevant, Maureen. These so-called "ethical" New Jersey attorneys -- now, as I say, judges in some cases -- proclaimed themselves my "superiors" even as their crimes continue to be covered-up by officials in Trenton. Is this an example of the "ethics" of New Jersey's legal profession? Mr. Alito, as a member of the New Jersey Bar Association, does this conduct meet with your approval? "New Jersey's 'Ethical' Legal System" and "New Jersey's Office of Attorney Ethics.")   

Neil Genzlinger, "David Zwick, 75, Is Dead; a Champion of Clean Water," The New York Times, February 25, 2018, p. A20. (Perhaps Mr. Zwick tried a little bit of New Jersey water and keeled over from chemical or fecal poisoning.)

Mike Kelly, "Long Road to Justice: Six Years After a Fatal Collision, Family Seeks Answers," The Record, February 23, 2018, p. A1. (Six years is nothing in New Jersey to receive a trial date. Missing evidence, lying cops, crooked judges are also pretty normal. The suffering of family members is only to be expected under such circumstances. "Law and Ethics in the Soprano State.") 

AP, "Eye Doctor Gets 17 Years for $73 MILLION in Medicare Fraud," The Record, February 23, 2018, p. 4A. (Mr. Menendez was asked to comment on the sentence for his 63-year-old "good friend." Allegedly, Mr. Menendez responded that he "could not recall meeting Dr. Melgen." Please compare "Menendez Charged With Selling His Office" with "Menendez Jury Undecided; Retrial Expected.")  

Dustin Racioppi, "N.J. Drug Deaths Spike 40 Percent," The Record, February 23, 2018, p. 4A. (The result of Mr. Christie's efforts to control opioid addiction and deaths from all drug overdoses is that fatalities are on the rise along with the availability of narcotics in the Garden State. Rumors are that police protection for big time drug dealers is cheaper than ever in Hudson County thanks to Mr. Menendez's so-called "acquittal," allegedly, even if this can neither be confirmed nor denied at this time. The N.J. child porn business is also thriving they say. Perhaps all of this is very "ethical" in New Jersey.) 











  

  



      

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

The Uneasy Relationship Between Science and Philosophy.

January 22, 2018 I was informed this morning that all fuse boxes in my building will be replaced. 

I assume that this work will be performed by a licensed electrician and that all necessary legal permits for such electrical work have been obtained by the contractors performing the job.

NSA warrantless surveillance of Americans was continued last week for the foreseeable future. 

I should note that I do not write at computers in my home.

Interference with my home electrical service will have no effect on my writing.

Water was cut off this morning in my apartment.

The U.S. Justice Department has announced that Senator Menendez will be re-tried on federal charges that resulted in a hung jury in 2017. ("Menendez Jury Undecided; Retrial Expected.")  

The Menendez matter (including new Senate ethics charges) and Mr. Christie's departure from New Jersey's governorship will be the subject of my next essay to be posted at this blog.

As of this date no U.S. officials, judges, prosecutors or police officers (nor media sources) have responded to my communications, nor (I have reason to believe) has there been any reply to the communications of others concerning my matters.   

January 9, 2018 I renewed my library card at the Morningside Heights branch of the NYPL. I am told that this makes the card good until February of 2021. The person who assisted me in this delicate operation is the branch manager. 

I found it difficult to post this essay because (I assume) hackers into my blogs made it problematic for me to make corrections or to space normally between paragraphs.

I have done my best to cope with these difficulties. 

Rebecca Newberger-Goldstein, "The Problems of Philosophy," Free Inquiry, December/January (2017-2018), pp. 41-47.

Rebecca Newberger-Goldstein is a wonderful philosopher and also a superb novelist. 

The philosopher in Ms. Goldstein sometimes disagrees with the novelist and the opposite is also true. 

It seems that the novelist does not entirely approve of the analytical philosopher. I often wonder whether the two sides of Ms. Goldstein's personality are on speaking terms. 

A similar division may be found in Western thought these days among science-dominated (analytical) and humanities-based (Continental) "schools" of philosophy.

The division within Ms. Goldstein's psyche is a productive one, however, that leads to the paradoxes and insights in her best scholarly writings and literary-artistic works. Perhaps the same is true of the notorious "split" in Western thought.

A similar description may also be applied to the Slovenian philosopher Slavoj Zizek, whose scholarly interest in Lacan and Hegel coincides with a passionate engagement in the politics of his native land as well as intense involvement in the struggles of a bitterly divided contemporary Europe, where "ideology" is far from a trivial matter, nor is "ideology" ever entirely absent from the science, philosophy, and general culture of our civilization as a whole at the moment. 

It is a bit unfair for Professor Goldstein to equate Mr. Zizek with "homeopathy" and herself (or analytical philosophers) with Western scientific medicine. To do so may be to fall under the definition Ms. Goldstein provides of "ideology" as "a rigid system of ideas that so vehemently rejects any possibility of challenge as to transform conformity to itself into a veritable moral standard." (Goldstein, p. 42.)

It may be that the pernicious effects of ideology (understood in classical Marxist terms) are most harmful where they are least detected as, for example, in the alleged "neutrality and detachment" of analytical philosophers struggling to comment on philosophical issues "scientifically." As Colin McGinn explains:

" ... any professional philosopher should have a good mastery of these logical and linguistic ideas, [analytical philosophy,] but I no longer believe that these ideas alone will lead to the resolution of serious philosophical problems. To that extent, then, I do not believe that philosophy can be a science."

"Logic and Language," in The Making of a Philosopher: My Journey Through Twentieth Century Philosophy (New York: Harcout-Brace, 2002), p. 77 (emphasis added). ("Is clarity enough?")

Professor Goldstein makes it clear that the only philosophy she will defend from the "jeers" of some prominent scientists is analytical philosophy.

I mostly agree with Professor Goldstein's defense of philosophy as she understands the subject from within her tradition and intellectual affiliations (which many Continental thinkers in turn dismiss as "ideological" and often irrelevant to substantive philosophical controversies). 

I am an adherent of the rival Continental tradition of contemporary Western philosophy which is, by far, the most popular style of philosophy today on a global level. 

This is to say nothing of the Chinese and other Asian, specifically Indian, Islamic, and other religiously-based, African and Latin-American schools of philosophy that also address these questions concerning the relationship between (or among) science, philosophy, and religion as areas of human cognitive effort and discipline.   

Among the most celebrated and important Continental thinkers are many American philosophers. ("Judith Butler and Gender Theory.") 

I explore some initial difficulties and ambiguities in Professor Goldstein's argument. I then examine the narrow defense of philosophy offered by Ms. Goldstein from within analytical philosophy while drawing out the implications of her statements that lead, I suggest, to a more open-ended or Continental-style rationale for philosophy against the recent critiques of some scientists. In the words of Christopher Norris:

"[Scientists] would do well to consider the historically attested and nowadays more vital than ever role of philosophy as a critical discipline. It continues to offer the sorts of argument that science requires in order to dispel the illusions of a naive sense-certainty or intuitive self-evidence but also the confusions that speculative thought runs into when decoupled from any restricting appeal to regulative principles such as that of inference to the best explanation. To adopt a quotation from Kant in a different though related context: philosophy of science without scientific input is empty, while science without philosophical guidance is blind. ..." 

"Hawking Contra Philosophy," in Philosophy Now, February/March, Issue 118 (2017) posted to the online edition: http://www.philosophynow.org/issues/82/hawking_contra_philosophy.

Critiques of Philosophy From Prominent Scientists. 

Ms. Goldstein begins by noting the recent outbreak of attacks by scientists against philosophy and philosophers:

"Whether in books, interviews or tweets, some of our most high-profile scientists have gone out of their way to opine on the mortal state of philosophy, either declaring its death a thing most devoutly to be wished for or already dancing on its grave." (Goldstein, p. 41.) 

There are no specific examples given of these critiques or so-called "jeers" by Professor Goldstein. 

I am aware of criticisms that confirm Professor Goldstein's remarks by Steven Weinberg and Richard Dawkins. Christopher Norris in his essay defending philosophy from scientists focuses on the comments of Stephen Hawking:

"[Hawking] wrote that philosophy is 'dead' since it hasn't kept up with the latest developments in science, especially theoretical physics. In earlier times -- Hawking conceded -- philosophers not only tried to keep up, but sometimes made significant contributions of their own. However, they were now, in so far as they had any influence at all, just an obstacle to progress through their endless goings on about the same issues of truth, knowledge, and the problem of induction, and so forth." (Norris, p. 1.) 

The persistence of these philosophical worries about the epistemic claims of scientists or any others (including lawyers and social scientists) I consider a sign of the healthy state of a discipline performing its historic function of counseling humility in knowledge claims or in any efforts to fully account for the furniture of the universe in an ontological sense.

It is ironic that scientists -- including Professor Hawking -- cannot avoid philosophizing themselves about the meaning of scientific developments and often do so very badly indeed. This is a point on which Professors Goldstein and Norris agree. (Please see my essays "Stephen Hawking's Free Will is Determined" and "Stephen Hawking is Right On Time.")

Ms. Goldstein characterizes the attacks on philosophy as "ill-informed," "incoherent," and "irresponsible." 

Scientists' accusations are ill-informed because they misunderstand what philosophy is about. The subject matter of the discipline is non-competitive with science focusing, for example, on conceptual meaning, logic of argumentation, ethics and metaphysical implications of scientific claims. ("Robert Brandom's 'Reason in Philosophy.'") 

Philosophy should not try to substitute for science in describing the workings of empirical reality.  

The scientists' accusations are also incoherent, however, because any claim about philosophy or its relevance today is necessarily also a philosophical assertion that must be supported by philosophical argument. 

Scientists indict philosophy by doing philosophy. At the very least this is inconsistent and a self-undermining effort. 

Scientists' attacks on philosophy are irresponsible because philosophy and science have a powerful common enemy in irrationalism of various kinds, notably religious fundamentalism as distinct from religion, as well as many forms of intolerance that are tearing communities apart. 

Science and philosophy must share a commitment to reason and objective analyses as well as factual and theoretical interpretations as a bulwark against irrationality. 

Scientists and philosophers are, accordingly, natural allies or "friends" in a world in which they are greatly outnumbered by adherents of various mysticisms and belief systems that are not grounded in objective thought or empirical evidence with little respect for argument as opposed to authority.  

Professor Goldstein suggests that science is able to enlist "reality" as a collaborator in a way that philosophy cannot. 

This is a controversial claim for many Continental philosophers of science, including some who are also distinguished scientists, but who emphasize the extent of theoretical preconceptions or "paradigms" that define the boundaries of the alleged "reality" to be measured by experimentation. 

I am referring not only to Paul Feyerabend, Thomas Khun, and Michael Polanyi as well as others, but even to pragmatists -- like Richard Rorty -- who wonder about the inability of scientists to escape their forms of representation or "texts." ("Jacques Derrida's Philosophy as Jazz" and "Richard Rorty's Ethical Skepticism.") 

Setting aside distractions (or stunts) such as the so-called "Sokal Hoax" Professor Stanley Aronowitz states: 

"It would be excessive to claim that the development of quantum mechanics, especially the discovery that knowledge of the physical object entails bringing the observer into the observational field, represented a direct acknowledgement of the power of Hegel's attack [on all forms of realism.] Yet, although physics has largely recuperated this admission within [mediated or critical] realist epistemology, some of the more philosophically minded theoretical physicists still have nagging doubts that the 'corruption' of the principle of indeterminacy is insufficient, that physics and truth are non-identical." 

Science as Power: Discourse and Ideology in Modern Society (Minn.: U. Minnesota Press, 1988), p. ix. ("John Searle and David Chalmers On Consciousness.") 

Whether reality says "yes" or "no" to scientists' questions may depend on what scientists choose to regard as "real," or what questions (often the wrong ones) are put to "reality" by scientists, or how questions are formulated "for" reality and/or science, to say nothing of how scientists interpret the "language of nature" (mathematics) in which so much of the scientific conversation about the building blocks of "reality" must be conducted today.

This does not deprive us of objectivity or truth within our various modes of discourse but offers us an invitation to select the "conversations" in which we, as inquirers, will participate. 

Among these "conversations" detailed work in science and philosophy may certainly be included, but also the dialogue between science and philosophy matters, including (perhaps especially) philosophers' skeptical reservations about the confident knowledge claims of their colleagues in laboratories along with their questionable and frequently unconscious metaphysical assumptions. ("The Return of Metaphysics.") 

Objections From an "Evolved Ape."   

Professor Goldstein sees a continuity between the scientific and philosophical "projects" along with important differences that make it impossible for philosophy to be a science. 

The crucial issue in Ms. Goldstein's discussion has to do with the engagements of these disciplines with "reality." Scientific methodology, Ms. Goldstein contends, has been "designed" to provoke "reality to answer us back." (Goldstein, p. 43.)

The trouble is that philosophy is concerned with questions that are meaningful even where objective empirical reality simply can not answer us back. 

For philosophers there is always a process of "beginning again" that Continentalists describe as the "hermeneutic circle" of refocusing upon one's original inquiry. 

There are two responses to this way of defining the issue between philosophy and science in an effort to defend the vital importance of philosophy for science: First, one needs to focus on this ambiguous word "reality" in order to appreciate that it may refer to the workings of the empirical world as well as how we know such workings or laws of the universe; but also the word "reality" may refer to the objective features of the social world that are as much created as discovered by scientists and humanistic scholars or even by all of us living in society. 

For Continental philosophers of science (and many scientists also) philosophy and science share a commitment to reason or (more modestly) rationality of interpretation that simultaneously discovers while constructing what we take to be "real." 

It may be best at this point to allow Professor Goldstein to state the issue and offer her argument before raising some skeptical reservations about her way of understanding the current division between philosophy and science:

"This grab-bag [scientific method] has proved powerful, allowing us progressively more insight into the laws of nature, though, of course, every progressive step is provisional; no result stands immune from a revision forced on us by further rebukes from reality that are elicited by those prods we deliberately inflict by way of controlled experiments." (Goldstein, p. 43.)

This suggests that the scientific castle is always built on quicksand, but it is also a reminder that in philosophy there are no "defeated" fundamental positions. 

Idealism and/or various forms of anti-realism have been made more plausible by developments in the sciences as well as in the history of thought. Plato is still an important philosopher for students of politics and morals. 

This eternal recurrence of fundamental positions (updated to account for scientific changes) in epistemology and metaphysics is a strength of philosophy and not a weakness because it suggests the linkage between philosophy and human nature which is essentially the same in every historical epoch. Professor Goldstein is led to a remarkable conclusion:

"Science expresses a humility that is highly appropriate for a pack of evolved apes to cultivate in the face of a reality that wasn't designed with our cognitive faculty and capacities in mind." (Goldstein, p. 43, emphasis added.)

The word "designed" in this statement will certainly please theologians since it implies a designer and suggests a teleological scheme in which the design is realized. ("Is it rational to believe in God?")

More importantly it is doubtful whether any "laws" of nature could be formulated by intelligent and conscious "evolved apes" if such "creatures" ("sacks of protein and water" perhaps?) were not admirably suited to the task of understanding a universe that can only come to know itself through persons as conscious agents. ("Ape and Essence" and "Primates and Personhood" then "The Naked Ape.")

The second response to Ms. Goldstein's statement of the division between philosophy and science has to do with the role of "reality" in scientific epistemology. 

In recent years eminent scientists have taken a far more modest view of what science is or concerning what can be achieved through scientific efforts:

"We normally think of science as the discovery of the facts about the natural world and the laws that govern its behavior, that is, we view science as the uncovering of an already made world. In this book, we will follow another course. We will trace the history of physics as the evolution of a language -- as the invention of new vocabularies [scientific hermeneutics] and new ways of talking about the world. Concentrating on the language physicists use to talk about the world will establish a perspective vitally important to understanding the development of physics in the twentieth century. But even more important, tracing the development of physics will provide a powerful way of looking at the much broader question of how language hooks up with the world."   

Bruce Gregory, Inventing Reality: Physics as Language (New York: John Weitz & Sons Inc., 1988, 1990), p. viii (emphasis added). (Professor Gregory served as Associate Director of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center For Astrophysics.) 

These thoughts and new understandings of science are shared by prominent biologists. Please compare Rupert Sheldrake, The Science Delusion: Freeing the Spirit of Inquiry (London: Coronet, 2012), pp. 291-318 ("Illusions of Objectivity") with Amit Goswami, Ph.D., The Self-Aware Universe: How Consciousness Creates the Material World (New York: Putnam, 1995), pp. 63-147 ("Idealism and the Resolution of the Quantum Paradoxes").  

Professor Goldstein's definition of philosophy's role may well coincide with science's greatest need today: 

" ... the real point of philosophy is: to maximize our coherence by discovering and resolving the inconsistencies we accrue as we go about trying to get our bearings in the world, which is our distinctively human project." (Goldstein, p. 43.) 

Philosophical intelligence is essential to unifying and establishing meanings for our total knowledge claims. Imagination is the fundamental tool in the effort to create as much as to find this unity that we seek between human knowledge and the world. ("Stuart Hampshire and Iris Murdoch On Freedom of Mind.")

The Search For a Theory of Everything. 

The effort to unify and reconcile different theories and facts about the universe as well as ourselves has been called "the search for a theory of everything."

I happened to be reading Paul Davies' book on string theory when I came across Professor Goldstein's essay in Free Inquiry. In that book Professor Davies -- who is philosophically adept as a scientist -- includes in his glossary of terms the word "phenomeology" as one of the crucial concepts for the discussion of recent developments in physics and the related analysis of consciousnesss. P.C.W. Davies & J. Brown, eds., Superstrings: A Theory of Everything (Cambridge: Cambridge U. Press, 1988), p. 226. 

Roger Penrose makes use of developments in quantum mechanics and the epistemological revolution resulting from these developments in physics to examine the issue of consciousness concluding (I believe correctly) that only with the development of quantum computing will we see real progress in A.I. technology aimed at developing conscious machines. 

Current technology and efforts to create conscious computers are doomed to fail because of serious confusions concerning the nature of consciousness. The multidimensionality and social essence of consciousness call for a quantum-like approach in theory and in all derivative technologies. ("Mind and Machine" and "Consciousness and Computers" then "Ex Machina: A Movie Review.")   

Professor Penrose, as a mathematician and cosmologist, anticipates many of the observations made by Professor Goldstein concerning the role and importance of philosophy to all of our cognitive activities:

" ... aesthetic criteria are enormously valuable in forming our judgments. In the arts, one might say that it is aesthetic criteria that are paramount. Aesthetics in the arts is a sophisticated subject, and philosophers have devoted lifetimes to its study. It could be argued that in mathematics and the sciences, such criteria are merely incidental, the criteria of truth being paramount. However, it seems impossible to separate one from the other when one considers the issues of inspiration and insight."

"Where Lies the Physics of Mind?," in The Emperor's New Mind: With a New Prologue by the Author (Oxford: Oxford U. Press, 1989, 1999), p. 544 (emphasis added). 

For a sampling of classic scientific discussions in which philosophical intelligence and learning are central to the arguments and suggestions set forth by the authors, please see Erwin Schrodinger, What is Life?: With Mind and Matter and Autobiographical Sketches (Cambridge: Cambridge U. Press, 1944, 2000), pp. 46-56; Niels Bohr, Atomic Physics and Human Knowledge (New York: Dover, 2010) (1st ed. 1961), pp. 23-32 ("Natural Philosophy and Human Culture") and 67-83 ("Unity of Knowledge"); Werner Heisenberg, Encounters With Einstein and Other Essays On People, Places, and Particles (New Jersey: Princeton U. Press, 1983), pp. 130-136 ("Thoughts On the Artist's Journey Into the Interior"); G.H. Hardy, A Mathematician's Apology (Cambridge: Cambridge U. Press, 1940, 1993), pp. 121-133. (F.H. Bradley's logic and metaphysics as influences on Hardy's mathematical work and his version of "numerical realism.")

John D. Barrow summarizes my point by neatly suggesting overlapping intelligence and imagination in our scientific as well as philosophical unification efforts where "reality" is both created and discovered by inquirers:

"Are the sciences and humanities alternative responses to the [one] world in which we live? Are they irreconcilable? Must we embrace either the subjective and objective: the abacus or the rose? Or have we created a false dichotomy and are the two views of the world more intimately entwined than appears at first sight?"

The Artful Universe Expanded (Oxford: Oxford U. Press, 1995, 2000), p. 3. (The author is Professor of Mathematical Sciences at Cambridge University where his predecessors include Issac Newton and Stephen Hawking.)

Compare Richard Rorty, Philosophy as Poetry (Charlottsville & London: U. Virginia, 2016), pp. 23-43 ("Universalist Grandeur and Analytic Philosophy") with Roger Trigg, Beyond Matter: Why Science Needs Metaphysics (Penn.: Templeton Press, 2015), pp. 3-25 ("Is Science the Sole Authority?").

I agree with Professor Goldstein's eloquent defense of philosophy from the "jeers" of some scientists. 

I continue to have reservations, however, about the suggested bifurcation of the knowledge field into areas where "reality" says "yes" or "no" to scholars' questions and other areas where "reality" is silent. 

It may be that in philosophy and the sciences the "reality" we perceive as entirely external to humanity that provides answers to our nagging questions aimed at knowing the cosmos and ourselves is as much a mirror as a window in the universe.