The Monmouth County Democratic Party nominated the following candidates today:
For Sheriff:
Jack Hill, Belmar Police Cheif
For County Clerk:
Amod Choudhary, Colts Neck Board of Education member
For Freeholder:
John D'Amico, Former Judge, Former Freeholder, Former State Senator and retiring as Chairman of the State Parole Board.
Stephen Schueler, Mayor of Bradley Beach
For Legislature:
In the 11th district:
John Villapiano for Senate, former Freeholder and former Assemblyman.
John Napolitani of Interlaken for Assembly, president of the Asbury Park Education Association.
John Pirnat of Brielle, business manager of Teamsters Local 177.
In the 12th district
Senator Ellen Karcher for re-election
Assemblyman Michael Panter for re-election
Amy A. Mallet for Assembly
In the 13th district:
Leonard Inzerillo for Senate, former Middletown Board of Education member. Former Assembly and Freeholder candidate.
Patricia Walsh for Assembly, Middletown Board of Education Member
Robert Brown, Attorney from Old Bridge, former policeman injured in the line of duty.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Once again, the wonderful voice of Lightshines..
Wherever she is today, there are tears in Mama Cass' eyes:
Monmouth GOP is down
Are the skies still Gray?
Puharic’s boys are throwing
everything away.
It was safe and warm
Til we got the big “A”
Former glory dreamin'
On such a winter's day
I watched at the convention
A divisive day
You know, he brought us to our knees
Just so he could have his way
Well Adam likes to lose
Like he proved last year
Former glory dreamin’
On such a winter's day
All the stars are gone
GOP power’s gone away
We need Puharic gone
for a better day
Dems are taking over
Adam’s turned us into clay
Oh, former glory dreamin'
On such a winter's day
On such a winter's day
Adams’s turned us into clay
On such a winter's day
Monmouth GOP is down
Are the skies still Gray?
Puharic’s boys are throwing
everything away.
It was safe and warm
Til we got the big “A”
Former glory dreamin'
On such a winter's day
I watched at the convention
A divisive day
You know, he brought us to our knees
Just so he could have his way
Well Adam likes to lose
Like he proved last year
Former glory dreamin’
On such a winter's day
All the stars are gone
GOP power’s gone away
We need Puharic gone
for a better day
Dems are taking over
Adam’s turned us into clay
Oh, former glory dreamin'
On such a winter's day
On such a winter's day
Adams’s turned us into clay
On such a winter's day
Once again we hear the shrill voice of Bob McKenna
In today's Asbury Park Press article about Anna Little's withdrawl from the 2007 Freeholder's race, Wall Municipal Chair Bob McKenna is quoted as saying that Anna Little did not put forth many initiatives as a Freeholder.
Anna Little did not put forth many initiatives?
How about calling for reduced county spending? Little actually accomplished that, though not as much as she would have liked. McKenna ranted and railed against last years budget increase and then went home angry when Little defeated him for the Freeholder seat. This year he was too busy undermining her to say a word about excessive county spending.
How about reducing the county's legal bills? Little's political problems within the party started when she took on Malcolm Carton, a battle she continues to fight. McKenna is a vocal critic when it serves his purposes, helping to take down Bill Dowd, Fred Neimann and now Anna Little. He has been silent about Carton.
What about ethics? Anna Little has proposed Freeholder term limits and a rotational directorship, so that the culture that gave us Operation Bid Rig will not happen again.
Perhaps the most important initiative that Little has called for is an Economic Development Council that would attract new industry and venture capital to Monmouth County. It hasn't gotten much ink or traction, but she keeps putting it out there. With the loss of Ft Monmouth, Lucent, ATT, Prudential, and with Vonage on the brink, Monmouth's economic future is precarious and it won't be long until the bond rating agencies notice. The AAA bond rating is more than a political platitude for Republican candidates to tout. It's a reflection more of our county's economic soundness than it is of good government. Little has had the vision to see that we have a problem coming and continues to call for solutions. Her petty political opponents can't see beyond the next election and their plum appointments.
Monmouth County loses big time without Anna Little on the Freeholder Board.
Anna Little did not put forth many initiatives?
How about calling for reduced county spending? Little actually accomplished that, though not as much as she would have liked. McKenna ranted and railed against last years budget increase and then went home angry when Little defeated him for the Freeholder seat. This year he was too busy undermining her to say a word about excessive county spending.
How about reducing the county's legal bills? Little's political problems within the party started when she took on Malcolm Carton, a battle she continues to fight. McKenna is a vocal critic when it serves his purposes, helping to take down Bill Dowd, Fred Neimann and now Anna Little. He has been silent about Carton.
What about ethics? Anna Little has proposed Freeholder term limits and a rotational directorship, so that the culture that gave us Operation Bid Rig will not happen again.
Perhaps the most important initiative that Little has called for is an Economic Development Council that would attract new industry and venture capital to Monmouth County. It hasn't gotten much ink or traction, but she keeps putting it out there. With the loss of Ft Monmouth, Lucent, ATT, Prudential, and with Vonage on the brink, Monmouth's economic future is precarious and it won't be long until the bond rating agencies notice. The AAA bond rating is more than a political platitude for Republican candidates to tout. It's a reflection more of our county's economic soundness than it is of good government. Little has had the vision to see that we have a problem coming and continues to call for solutions. Her petty political opponents can't see beyond the next election and their plum appointments.
Monmouth County loses big time without Anna Little on the Freeholder Board.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Statement by Freeholder Anna Little
I am grateful for the support and encouragement shown to me by the hardworking residents and taxpayers of Monmouth County. It is my honor to serve as your representative, whether Republican, Democrat or Independent. Your support has uplifted me and will fuel me in continuing the work we have begun.
I have compared the many alternatives available for me to run for re-election this year. I have decided that a costly and divisive primary is not in the best interests of the people of Monmouth County. Likewise, a costly and divisive independent run is not in the best interests of those whom I serve, and who love Monmouth County as much as I do.
By now it is well known that I have had serious disagreements with Chairman Adam Puharic on several ethical matters, including the wheeling of money back into Monmouth County during last year's campaign and his holding a federal job while acting as Chairman of the Monmouth County Republican Party. All those serving in government must avoid the appearance of impropriety. The people of Monmouth County are entitled to this and should accept nothing less.
During the last year as Freeholder I have focused on doing the work of the people: voting against Malcolm Carton, calling for reduced spending and working toward a flat budget, promoting transparency and ethical reforms, and proposing an economic development plan for the county. I will continue to do this work with the same intensity for the remainder of my term. If God wills it, I will live to run for office another time. I will never lose my desire to serve.
Posted at 3:30 pm
The Spin goes on
In his OpEd piece today, Adam Puharic declared that more than 400 county committee members voted to move beyond the divisiveness and infighting of the past two conventions. He called those past conventions an atmosphere that created Anna Little and helped to lose the first Republican freeholder seat in 20 years.
I wonder why he said over 400 showed up? If that was the case, why would so many show up and them not vote? The first two votes, done by hand count, were under 300. When the rules passed, first by 174 to 98 and then by 198 to 85, one might expect that less people would vote in the two remaining contested races. Yet, only 356 voted in the Sheriff's race, and 352 in the Freeholder race.
Once again, Puharic exhibits his strategy of creating unity by quashing dissent and thwarting debate, while spinning the numbers to make himself out as powerful and effective. Maybe he is powerful and effective. We won't know for sure until November.
I wonder why he said over 400 showed up? If that was the case, why would so many show up and them not vote? The first two votes, done by hand count, were under 300. When the rules passed, first by 174 to 98 and then by 198 to 85, one might expect that less people would vote in the two remaining contested races. Yet, only 356 voted in the Sheriff's race, and 352 in the Freeholder race.
Once again, Puharic exhibits his strategy of creating unity by quashing dissent and thwarting debate, while spinning the numbers to make himself out as powerful and effective. Maybe he is powerful and effective. We won't know for sure until November.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Time to change the stump speech
Monmouth County Republican candidates for county office routinely site the county's AAA bond rating as a reason to vote for them, as if those candidates actually had something to do with achieving that rating.
The AAA bond rating is a great thing to have. It means the county has a vibrant economy, high income demographics, conservative debt structure and a well managed government administration, in the view of the rating agencies. The ratings mean that the investment community believe that their interest payments will be received as agreed and that their principle is secure. This allows the county to borrow for capital projects at the lowest rates available in the market.
But is a AAA rating a Republican phenomena? If so, the rating agencies must have missed the fact that Middlesex and Bergen Counties are run by Democrats. They both enjoy AAA ratings. Republican Ocean County has a AA+ rating.
The AAA bond rating is a great thing to have. It means the county has a vibrant economy, high income demographics, conservative debt structure and a well managed government administration, in the view of the rating agencies. The ratings mean that the investment community believe that their interest payments will be received as agreed and that their principle is secure. This allows the county to borrow for capital projects at the lowest rates available in the market.
But is a AAA rating a Republican phenomena? If so, the rating agencies must have missed the fact that Middlesex and Bergen Counties are run by Democrats. They both enjoy AAA ratings. Republican Ocean County has a AA+ rating.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Anna Little has made her decision
Freeholder Anna Little has made her decision regarding her candidacy for re-election. She is in the process of calling her supporters who she feels should hear it first hand rather on a blog or in the newspaper.
Anna will issue a public statement by Wednesday.
Keansburg to honor Joe Oxley
The Mayor and Council of the Borough of Keansburg will be honoring Sheriff Oxley at the public meeting this Wednesday, March 28, 2006 at 6PM. All County residents and friends are welcome to join together as we honor the work of our Monmouth County Sheriff Joseph Oxley.
Terence Wall
(on behalf of the Mayor and Council)
Directions – 29 Church Street Keansburg – intersection of Church and Carr – 6PM Sharp
For more information call 908.461.3400
Terence Wall
(on behalf of the Mayor and Council)
Directions – 29 Church Street Keansburg – intersection of Church and Carr – 6PM Sharp
For more information call 908.461.3400
Councilman Mike Howell chimes in
Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Mike Howell and I am a councilman from Howell Township. Deputy Mayor Bob Walsh and I attended a portion of the republican county convention at Brookdale College this past Saturday. I say we attended a portion because we were refused entry to the main room until Mary Pat was halfway through her speech and then, we were ushered through the cafeteria and allowed to sit in a doorway for the remainder of the speeches.
For those of you who are not familiar with either Bob or myself, let me give you a bit of background. We are both elected officials from Howell Township as I stated earlier. Bob won an election in November of 2005 to fill the unexpired term of our mayor Joe DiBella and then ran again this past November with myself and our running mate Angela Dalton. We swept the election by a 58%-42% margin with the closest vote getter about 1800 votes behind us. Funny thing about it is this; Bob and I are both registered republicans. We ran as independents because we were disenchanted with the local Republican Party, not the membership, but by its goals and its perceived secrecy.
We attended the convention not to cause a scene, but rather, to become knowledgeable about the candidates that the party was putting forth. We did this for one basic reason; There will come a time in the very near future when the people who overwhelmingly supported our campaign will ask us who we feel will do the best job for Howell at the county level. At this point all I can tell them is how we were treated as elected republican officials of their township at the convention. Not a very stellar endorsement.
Again, we may have run as independents, but we are registered republicans, we are elected officials and we were victorious over the county endorsed republican ticket just 5 months ago. If I didn't feel disenfranchised by the local and county party before, I sure do now.
Councilman Mike Howell
howellmj@optonline.net
Welcome Mr. Mayor
From: Michael Halfacre [mailto:halflaw@comcast.net]
Sent: Monday, March 26, 2007 9:20 AM
To: Adam Puharic
Subject: Monmouth County Republican Convention
Dear Adam,
I want to take a moment of your time to express my profound disappointment with the way I and a few other elected officials were treated at Saturday's Convention.
I was aware that, as an elected official, I would not be permitted to vote, but the Rules that were circulated certainly implied that elected officials would be permitted to attend.
When I checked in at the District 12 table, I was advised to speak with Mayor DiMaso at the entryway to the room. When I tried to approach her, I was rudely confronted by a gentleman with no form of identification on his person, other than a sticker that said 'Volunteer'. He made it clear in no uncertain terms I was not getting into the room.
I attempted to explain who I was, but it made little difference. I was soon joined by elected officials from Spring Lake and Howell, as well as an additional elected official from Fair Haven, and we all were asked to wait in a holding area before we were permitted to view the proceedings from the cafeteria doorway.
Throughout this time, we were all shown shockingly little respect by the 'volunteers'. We were treated no better than Joe Lochriccio for goodness
sake.
Adam, you and I have been somewhat acquainted since our Monmouth County Young Republican days of the early and mid 1990's. I was supportive of your ascendancy to the Chair's position. I felt that you were supportive of my campaign for Mayor of Fair Haven last fall, and I have tried to remain positive during the ensuing three months of turmoil at the County level.
Unfortunately, the time has come for you to decide what kind of leader you want to be. The days of iron-fisted rule and secretive proceedings are supposed to be behind us. We were supposed to be entering an age of transparency and welcoming all for full participation. The "circle-the-wagons" mentality that was clearly on display on Saturday does not instill respect for our organization. Instead, it serves to alienate those of us who are loyal Republican elected officials, something I do not
believe you can continue to afford to do.
The handling of the screening process and the treatment I and others were exposed to on Saturday does not bode well for our Grand Old Party.
Please re-think your approach to leading our party, and lead by setting an example of respect for Republican elected officials.
Thank you for your time and attention to these matters.
Michael I. Halfacre
Mayor, Borough of Fair Haven
http://www.mikehalfacre.com/
Saturday, March 24, 2007
No surprises. Not much drama.
With a turnout of less than 300, the Republican County Committee Convention was a rubber stamp for Adam Puharic.
Puharic started the proceedings by justifying his screening process, saying the only opposition to it was the Asbury Park Press and the loser of last year's Chairman's race. He said there was no contract for candidates to sign, which was met with a shout from the gallery, "Tell the truth." He then admitted that he asked Anna Little to tell the Asbury Park Press that she had signed the contract, when in fact she did not.
A motion to pass the Puharic rules passed on a hand count by 174 to 98. A roll call was called for and temporary chair Claire French called for speakers from each side of the issue. Atlantic Highlands Chair Jane Frotten spoke against the rules, calling for the use of Roberts Rules of Order. Aberdeen Chair Mike Borg spoke for the rules. On a second vote, the rules passed 198 to 85.
Neptune Township Committeeman Tom Catley called himself the most qualified candidate for the 11th district Assembly nod. Catley spoke of his family tragedy, the loss of his son in a car accident, and then withdrew from the race. He said retiring Senator Joe Palaia would try to get him a Superior Court Judgeship. Dave Rible and Mary Pat Angelini won be default.
As expected, Kim Guadagno won the nomination for Sheriff and Jeff Cantor won the contested Freeholder race.
Honest Abe has a complete breakdown of the nominees.
Freeholder Anna Little's plan for re-election is still unknown. She was on hand to compete for the Republican line in the event that Puharic's rules were defeated. While the Republicans at the convention seemed to be expecting a primary in the Freeholder race, the door is reportedly still ajar in for the Democratic nod, should Little switch parties.
Among the Democrats mentioned as candidates are Former Assistant Prosecutor Robert Honecker, who has also been floated as an Assembly candidate in the 12th. Former Judge John D'Amico and Howell Democratic Chair Steve Merlino are also considering a run for Freeholder.
The Democrats have a convention next Saturday March 31. The filing deadline for the primary is April 9.
Puharic started the proceedings by justifying his screening process, saying the only opposition to it was the Asbury Park Press and the loser of last year's Chairman's race. He said there was no contract for candidates to sign, which was met with a shout from the gallery, "Tell the truth." He then admitted that he asked Anna Little to tell the Asbury Park Press that she had signed the contract, when in fact she did not.
A motion to pass the Puharic rules passed on a hand count by 174 to 98. A roll call was called for and temporary chair Claire French called for speakers from each side of the issue. Atlantic Highlands Chair Jane Frotten spoke against the rules, calling for the use of Roberts Rules of Order. Aberdeen Chair Mike Borg spoke for the rules. On a second vote, the rules passed 198 to 85.
Neptune Township Committeeman Tom Catley called himself the most qualified candidate for the 11th district Assembly nod. Catley spoke of his family tragedy, the loss of his son in a car accident, and then withdrew from the race. He said retiring Senator Joe Palaia would try to get him a Superior Court Judgeship. Dave Rible and Mary Pat Angelini won be default.
As expected, Kim Guadagno won the nomination for Sheriff and Jeff Cantor won the contested Freeholder race.
Honest Abe has a complete breakdown of the nominees.
Freeholder Anna Little's plan for re-election is still unknown. She was on hand to compete for the Republican line in the event that Puharic's rules were defeated. While the Republicans at the convention seemed to be expecting a primary in the Freeholder race, the door is reportedly still ajar in for the Democratic nod, should Little switch parties.
Among the Democrats mentioned as candidates are Former Assistant Prosecutor Robert Honecker, who has also been floated as an Assembly candidate in the 12th. Former Judge John D'Amico and Howell Democratic Chair Steve Merlino are also considering a run for Freeholder.
The Democrats have a convention next Saturday March 31. The filing deadline for the primary is April 9.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Convention Tomorrow
"The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just"
--ABRAHAM LINCOLN
The Monmouth County Republican Committee meets tomorrow, March 24, 2007 in the Donald D. Warner Student Life Center at Brookdale Community College.
The biggest question...Will there be a turnout? Even with some 800 seats, 420 would be considered a good turnout. While there has been vocal opposition and controversy surrounding the new candidate selection process implemented by Adam Puharic, there is increasing concern that those who are disgusted will stay home. Puharic's opposition is not organized. They are divided between those who want make a stand at the convention and those who have written off this year and are willing to "let it burn" and re-group next June or later.
High level support for circumventing Puharic's process and giving the line to Anna Little seems to be fading, as the likelihood of her switching parties seems to be diminishing.
With a turnout of 400 or more, anything could happen tomorrow. Less than that, look for a rubber stamp for Puharic's process.
If Puharic's rules are adopted, the contested Freeholder nomination will be won by Jeff Cantor.
If Puharic's rules are not adopted and nominations are taken from the floor, Anna Little will be nominated. Brian Reilly and J. David Hiers will likely drop out, setting up a head to head with Little and Cantor. The result...very close.
With the APP calling for Puharic to allow Little to compete at the convention, look for Puharic to proudly declare that the Asbury Park Press does not run the Republican Party.
In the other contested races....Dave Rible and Mary Pat Angelini get the nod for Assembly in the 11th, and Kim Guadagno wins the Sheriff nomination in a landslide against what's his name.
With all the attention and controversy among Republicans, the Democrats smell victory, with or without Little. They have been quietly putting together a surprisingly strong ticket. Their convention is next Saturday. Candidates names should start emerging tomorrow afternoon.
--ABRAHAM LINCOLN
The Monmouth County Republican Committee meets tomorrow, March 24, 2007 in the Donald D. Warner Student Life Center at Brookdale Community College.
The biggest question...Will there be a turnout? Even with some 800 seats, 420 would be considered a good turnout. While there has been vocal opposition and controversy surrounding the new candidate selection process implemented by Adam Puharic, there is increasing concern that those who are disgusted will stay home. Puharic's opposition is not organized. They are divided between those who want make a stand at the convention and those who have written off this year and are willing to "let it burn" and re-group next June or later.
High level support for circumventing Puharic's process and giving the line to Anna Little seems to be fading, as the likelihood of her switching parties seems to be diminishing.
With a turnout of 400 or more, anything could happen tomorrow. Less than that, look for a rubber stamp for Puharic's process.
If Puharic's rules are adopted, the contested Freeholder nomination will be won by Jeff Cantor.
If Puharic's rules are not adopted and nominations are taken from the floor, Anna Little will be nominated. Brian Reilly and J. David Hiers will likely drop out, setting up a head to head with Little and Cantor. The result...very close.
With the APP calling for Puharic to allow Little to compete at the convention, look for Puharic to proudly declare that the Asbury Park Press does not run the Republican Party.
In the other contested races....Dave Rible and Mary Pat Angelini get the nod for Assembly in the 11th, and Kim Guadagno wins the Sheriff nomination in a landslide against what's his name.
With all the attention and controversy among Republicans, the Democrats smell victory, with or without Little. They have been quietly putting together a surprisingly strong ticket. Their convention is next Saturday. Candidates names should start emerging tomorrow afternoon.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Perfect Together
Greg, I've been meaning to thank you for all the traffic. I'm sure DaTruthSquad appreciates it too.
Greater Media Newspapers editor Greg Bean doesn't like the Monmouth County Republican bloggers much. Yet he can't stop reading them, or writing about them. In his column this week, he calls DaTruthSquad a baconhead.
One good turn deserves another. So, Greg, here's some traffic right back atcha.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Just a few points
It's good to see Amy Handlin on board with her comments about Malcolm Carton. It would be nice to see her go public with her comments about Adam Puharic too.
What happened to Caroline Cassagrande's bio on the party website? Is she still running? Is Jeff Cantor switching from the Freeholder race to the Assembly race in 12?
Brian Reilly, meet Lenny Inzerillo. Reilly, who's running third in the Lincoln/Reagan/Seward poll with 6% of the vote, has sent out two mailers to county committee members. Neither mailer has a "Paid for by..." disclosure. One might think that someone who's run for office twice previously would know better.
If you're a county committee member, don't miss the convention on Saturday at Brookdale, even if you think your vote won't matter. Chances are you will be very disappointed if you do not attend. You might want to check out Ronald Reagan's February 17th post over the next couple of days, and brush up on your Robert's Rules. Barnes and Noble has copies in stock.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Adam's Family Feud
With all the headlines about the reconstruction of the Hall of Records, I (Lightshines) couldn't help but think of The Carpenters:
We’ve only just begun to feud
Back stabs and promises
Pretend we’re calm and demand our way
And yes, we’ve just begun
Though Clifton says he’ll work with Anna
That’s not who the goons will choose
Puharic’s guerillas won’t let her run
And yes, we’ve just begun
Fighting each other, this is new to us
Something that’s recent for the GOP
Adam’s made a brand new art of it
Ripping us further day to day
Asunder
And when November comes, we’ll cry
So much to lose this year
We’ll all be gone with the winter’s snow
And yes, we’ve just begun.
What is he afraid of?
In today's Asbury Park Press article about the movement to nominate Freeholder Anna Little at the convention this Saturday, Adam Puharic said, he "is sure all Republicans would be as offended as I am" if Little was able to successfully circumvent the screening process and win the party line.
So what is the problem? Since Adam is sure all Republicans would be offended, there wouldn't even be a nomination from the floor. Even if all but two Republicans are offended and there is a nomination and a second, certainly there is no way Anna Little could win the nomination, if all but two Republicans are offended by the prospects of her winning the party line.
The last four conventions were open to nominations from the floor. There weren't any. So what's the problem Adam? Why not open the convention to nominations from the floor?
Monday, March 19, 2007
Clifton Opens the Door for Little
In a stunning announcement to the Asbury Park Press, Freeholder Rob Clifton said he would welcome Anna Little as his running mate, "if that is what the party choses." For those who know Clifton, that qualifies as bold.
The two Freeholders are appeared together tonight at the Wall Township Republican Club.
Little and Clifton were both guests of the Bayshore Republican Conference last week, where there was no lack of support for Little.
True to form, Adam Puharic told the Press that Anna Little's participation is not welcome at the party convention this Saturday, March 24. He said, "is sure all Republicans would be as offended as I am" if Little was able to successfully circumvent the screening process and win the party line. He sent out a "Wireside Chat" reminding the county committee that the rules have been adopted and that the time for changes has come and gone.
Many Republicans who are offended by Puharic's power grabbing process and fear overwhelming defeat in November,welcome this development. Clifton referenced conversations with party leaders of a procedural move that would allow Little to be nominated from the floor.
Speculation and hope are rising among rank and file Republicans that Clifton and Little will stand together as incumbents and run off the line in a primary, should Puharic prevent Little's nomination from the floor.
Little continues to lead her challengers in the Lincoln/Reagan/Seward poll with 62% of the vote.
Stay tuned. This is March Madness and more upsets are likely to occur before the finals.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Updated Tuesday March 20, 2007
Why does Puharic think our award winning Sheriff's Department needs a new direction?
Welcome your 2007 Convention candidates for Sheriff
03/17/2007
Dear fellow Republicans:
Please join me in congratulating our 2007 Monmouth County Republican convention candidates for Sheriff:
Shaun Golden – Farmingdale
Kim Guadagno – Monmouth Beach
I want to extend congratulations to all of the candidates who participated in the screening committee session today. This was an exceptionally close vote, and the caliber and talent of the candidates made our selection extremely challenging. In the end, the screening committee believes that among an incredibly talented pool of leaders, Shaun and Kim were able to reach out and convince the majority of their ability to take the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office in a new direction. (emphasis added)
I look forward to seeing you on March 24th, and I hope you will join me in thanking every candidate, who worked incredibly hard, under an impossible time constraint, to fill Joe Oxley’s shoes on this ticket. Each one of them has carried themselves with dignity, professionalism and great courage. In meeting them all, my spirits are refreshed, and my hope in this great Republican party’s future is secure.
Adam Puharic
Chairman,
Monmouth County Republican Committee
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Adapt, Overcome, Win
In a Sunday front page upper right hand story the Asbury Park Press used 1271 words to tell Monmouth County voters that they found Freeholder Director Bill Barham's name on construction documents that have nothing to do with county work. They reminded us once again that Freeholder Anna Little has split with GOP leaders and asked Barham to recuse himself from all discussions concerning the Hall of Records project being performed by a contractor with whom Barham has other business relationships.
Coverage of the screening committee approved candidates for Sheriff was on page 13.
What does this really tell us?
In the last few weeks the Asbury Park Press has re-energized their 5+ year attack on the excesses of the Monmouth GOP. This blog has been happy to help. They have demonized Bill Barham, Malcolm Carton and Adam Puharic, all of whom have been easy targets. Meanwhile, the APP has passed Amy Handlin's crown as the champion of government reform onto her the woman who took her seat at the dais, Anna C. Little, Esq. of Highlands.
Little, who the APP was "dubious" of in October, has overcome the editorial boards's scepticism and the attacks from within her party's leadership. If the numerous letters to the editor supporting her are any indication, Little is a lock for re-election by much wider margins than she earned last November.
Are Barham, Carton and Puharic destined to join John Bennett and Ed Stominski as victims of the 800 pound gorilla? Probably. That is really up to them, though I doubt they see it that way.
According to one of his former students, Adam Puharic's creed is Adapt, Overcome and Win. Yet his performance has chairman has been far from adaptable. He has not overcome the controversy he has created. He certainly isn't winning.
Which Adam Puharic will show up this week? The strident enforcer or the adaptable leader? The Adam who punishes dissent or the one who heals, brings people together and fosters debate without resentment? Can he overcome the damage caused by his anger?
There is a lot riding on which Adam shows up this week.
Coverage of the screening committee approved candidates for Sheriff was on page 13.
What does this really tell us?
In the last few weeks the Asbury Park Press has re-energized their 5+ year attack on the excesses of the Monmouth GOP. This blog has been happy to help. They have demonized Bill Barham, Malcolm Carton and Adam Puharic, all of whom have been easy targets. Meanwhile, the APP has passed Amy Handlin's crown as the champion of government reform onto her the woman who took her seat at the dais, Anna C. Little, Esq. of Highlands.
Little, who the APP was "dubious" of in October, has overcome the editorial boards's scepticism and the attacks from within her party's leadership. If the numerous letters to the editor supporting her are any indication, Little is a lock for re-election by much wider margins than she earned last November.
Are Barham, Carton and Puharic destined to join John Bennett and Ed Stominski as victims of the 800 pound gorilla? Probably. That is really up to them, though I doubt they see it that way.
According to one of his former students, Adam Puharic's creed is Adapt, Overcome and Win. Yet his performance has chairman has been far from adaptable. He has not overcome the controversy he has created. He certainly isn't winning.
Which Adam Puharic will show up this week? The strident enforcer or the adaptable leader? The Adam who punishes dissent or the one who heals, brings people together and fosters debate without resentment? Can he overcome the damage caused by his anger?
There is a lot riding on which Adam shows up this week.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
An Irish Blessing
May those who love us, love us;
and those who don't love us, may God turn their hearts
and if He doesn't turn their hearts, may he turn their ankles so we'll know them by their limping.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Kim's back in!
Wally Edge is reporting that Monmouth Beach Commissioner Kim Guadagno is back in the Sheriff's race; foregoing her front runner's status in the 11th district Assembly race.
Guadagno's candidacy for Sheriff has been pushed by Middletown GOP chairman Peter Carton and his young associate, Brian Nelson since Joe Oxley made his bombshell announcement of not seeking re-election.
UPDATE: Guadagno's Press Release
Guadagno to Run For Sheriff
MONMOUTH BEACH, NJ - Commissioner Kim Guadagno, will seek the seat of retiring Monmouth County Sheriff Joe Oxley, who announced to the Republican party leaders on Saturday March 3 that he would not seek re-election to a fifth term.
Guadagno said she was asked to reconsider her decision to run for the Assembly by County Republican leaders who told her that her background in law enforcement made her the best qualified candidate for Sheriff. “I am thankful for the support I received as a candidate for the Assembly but having spent the great majority of my legal career in law enforcement, I feel best suited to serve the residents of Monmouth County as Sheriff.” For more than a decade, Sheriff Joe Oxley has helped protect the residents of Monmouth County by creating one of the most highly accredited Sheriff’s offices in the nation,” continued Guadagno. “It would be great privilege to have the opportunity to utilize my law enforcement background to serve the residents of Monmouth County and build upon Sheriff Oxley’s record of achievement.”
"September 11 has changed everyone’s world including the Office of Monmouth County Sheriff," Guadagno explained. "The Sheriff must have an appreciation for all levels of law enforcement and how they relate and interact. My established record and close relationship with both the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office make me uniquely qualified to be Sheriff." In addition to being a practicing attorney, Guadagno teaches at Rutgers Law School. She was the Deputy Director of the Division of Criminal Justice for the Attorney General’s Office where she supervised nearly 300 attorneys and investigators. While serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Guadagno was the Deputy Chief of the Corruption Unit. Twice honored with the U.S. Department of Justice’s highest award, Guadagno has received commendations for the Director of the FBI and has taught at the F.B.I. Academy at Quantico Virginia. As Sheriff, Guadagno says that her foremost concern will be the safety and security of the residents of Monmouth County. Next, she pledges fiscal responsibility and bringing the highest standards in management to the Sheriff’s Office. Guadagno will also work to ensure promotion of women and minorities through the ranks.
Guadagno is 47 years old and is married to Michael, a Superior Court Judge. They have three sons, about whom Guadagno says, "I want my kids to have the chance to grow up in a safe environment and to enjoy living in Monmouth County as much as Mike and I do."
Democrats would welcome Freeholder Anna Little
Of course they would.
She's going to win in November, just as she did last November. The Democrats smell control of the Monmouth County Freeholder Board for the first time in 20 years, and they hope to hold it for the next twenty years.
Republicans throughout Monmouth County, senior level statesmen to rank and file volunteer sign team members, are burning up the phone lines, meeting in private and writing subversive blogs in the hopes of solving this problem that Adam Puharic, Bill Barham and Malcolm Carton created.
Here's a newsflash: Puharic and Barham think they can weather this storm and still win in November. They are blinded by the same arrogance that created this problem. They also don't think Anna Little will become a Democrat. They are counting on her either running a poorly funded primary or Independent race, and losing either way.
Puharic will not give up.
Little believes in the work she has started in Freehold. The voters do too, and the voters don't care what party she is in. They want lower taxes and less corruption. Anna Little is their champion. She is not going to lose in November.
The only people who care whether Little runs as a Republican or a Democrat are those for whom the designations are more than abstractions. People who's livelihoods, identities or social lives depend on the designation.
The problem with becoming a Democrat is that the Democrats in Trenton and Washington are money grubbing miscreants, much like many Monmouth County Republicans.
Monmouth County Democrats are saying the right things. They say they want to cut spending and root out corruption. When they win, they will cut spending and root out corruption for a while, until the power and money bug bites them.
If the Democrats take control of Freehold, and they probably will, I want Anna Little there to be as big a pain in the ass to them as she has been to the Republicans.
If the senior level Republicans who have been trying to solve the problem Puharic, Barham and Carton created really want to prevent Monmouth County from becoming Bergen County, they need to speak up publicly. Call Anna Little and beg her to run as a Republican in the primary. Promise her the organizational and financial support neccessary for her to win. Recruit Puharic's legislative candidates for Anna's line, and leave Puharic with an incomplete or second tier slate. Anna's line would win if the right people publicly support it and fund it.
Do it today.
Otherwise, Monmouth County becomes Bergen County, a Democratic strong hold. Even if Anna Little decides not to run at all. Waiting to replace Puharic in June 2008 will be too late. He needs to be defeated now. Other wise its Happy Days are Here Again in Freehold.
She's going to win in November, just as she did last November. The Democrats smell control of the Monmouth County Freeholder Board for the first time in 20 years, and they hope to hold it for the next twenty years.
Republicans throughout Monmouth County, senior level statesmen to rank and file volunteer sign team members, are burning up the phone lines, meeting in private and writing subversive blogs in the hopes of solving this problem that Adam Puharic, Bill Barham and Malcolm Carton created.
Here's a newsflash: Puharic and Barham think they can weather this storm and still win in November. They are blinded by the same arrogance that created this problem. They also don't think Anna Little will become a Democrat. They are counting on her either running a poorly funded primary or Independent race, and losing either way.
Puharic will not give up.
Little believes in the work she has started in Freehold. The voters do too, and the voters don't care what party she is in. They want lower taxes and less corruption. Anna Little is their champion. She is not going to lose in November.
The only people who care whether Little runs as a Republican or a Democrat are those for whom the designations are more than abstractions. People who's livelihoods, identities or social lives depend on the designation.
The problem with becoming a Democrat is that the Democrats in Trenton and Washington are money grubbing miscreants, much like many Monmouth County Republicans.
Monmouth County Democrats are saying the right things. They say they want to cut spending and root out corruption. When they win, they will cut spending and root out corruption for a while, until the power and money bug bites them.
If the Democrats take control of Freehold, and they probably will, I want Anna Little there to be as big a pain in the ass to them as she has been to the Republicans.
If the senior level Republicans who have been trying to solve the problem Puharic, Barham and Carton created really want to prevent Monmouth County from becoming Bergen County, they need to speak up publicly. Call Anna Little and beg her to run as a Republican in the primary. Promise her the organizational and financial support neccessary for her to win. Recruit Puharic's legislative candidates for Anna's line, and leave Puharic with an incomplete or second tier slate. Anna's line would win if the right people publicly support it and fund it.
Do it today.
Otherwise, Monmouth County becomes Bergen County, a Democratic strong hold. Even if Anna Little decides not to run at all. Waiting to replace Puharic in June 2008 will be too late. He needs to be defeated now. Other wise its Happy Days are Here Again in Freehold.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Sheriff's race
The entry of Belmar Police Chief Jack Hill into the race for the Democratic nomination for Sheriff is good news for the citizens on Monmouth County. None of the other candidates of either party are in Hill's league. Prior to Hill's announcement I was wondering if either party would field a candidate who could actually do the job.
This is more grim news for the Monmouth GOP, who so far are fielding a Karate teaching dog catcher and a private detective.
UPDATE: Jim Purcell is reporting the Buddy Amato is out of the GOP Sheriff's race. Purcell reports that Amato backed down at the behest of animal rights activists who begged him to stay on at the SPCA. Another source states that Amato met with the screening committee, didn't like what he was hearing from the committee, and decided not to run.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Take me home.....
Lightshines said...
With all respect to John Denver, let's hope something happens fast so that this song doesn't turn out to be true:
“It’s like Heaven” says Vic Scudiery
“Puharic’s handing me, wins I’d never seen.
For the first time, since I’ve been the chair
We’re gonna win the fight, the GOP is running bare”
County seats are leaving home, all these places will be dems
GOP is slipping, they’re running second strings
All these places will be dems
There’s no Little, Oxley’s finished, too
Beck’s giving up incumbency for Cassagrande who?
Puharic’s turned off everyone who’s good
Has he been hitting moonshine?
His goons seem like the ‘hood.
County seats are leaving home, all these places will be dems
GOP is slipping, they’re running second strings
All these places will be dems
I hear the voices telling me our time is at an end
What Adam hasn’t killed is being finished off by Carton
Tween Adam and his henchman
I get a feelin that the GOP will become yesterday, yesterday
County seats are leaving home, all these places will be dems
GOP is slipping, they’re running second strings
They’re leaving home, county seats
They’re leaving home, county seats
With all respect to John Denver, let's hope something happens fast so that this song doesn't turn out to be true:
“It’s like Heaven” says Vic Scudiery
“Puharic’s handing me, wins I’d never seen.
For the first time, since I’ve been the chair
We’re gonna win the fight, the GOP is running bare”
County seats are leaving home, all these places will be dems
GOP is slipping, they’re running second strings
All these places will be dems
There’s no Little, Oxley’s finished, too
Beck’s giving up incumbency for Cassagrande who?
Puharic’s turned off everyone who’s good
Has he been hitting moonshine?
His goons seem like the ‘hood.
County seats are leaving home, all these places will be dems
GOP is slipping, they’re running second strings
All these places will be dems
I hear the voices telling me our time is at an end
What Adam hasn’t killed is being finished off by Carton
Tween Adam and his henchman
I get a feelin that the GOP will become yesterday, yesterday
County seats are leaving home, all these places will be dems
GOP is slipping, they’re running second strings
They’re leaving home, county seats
They’re leaving home, county seats
Is there a change in the air?
Yesterday there was a "Wireside Chat" sent out promoting the screening committee's candidates. On the Monmouth GOP's website there were a bios of all the legislative, clerk and freeholder candidates.
This morning the GOP website only has the bios of legislative candidates.
Is this more than a technical glitch? Let's hope so. (Update at 11:05 am: The glitch has been fixed.)
Yesterday, Ronald Reagan reported that he surveyed the major players in the Monmouth GOP, including the new political director (John C Raue?). He reports that, "to a person they admit that the problem Monmouth Republicans face could be solved by the resignation of Adam Puharic and the granting of the line to Anna Little."
This morning, Reagan posted a method for removing the chairman at the convention.
I hope it doesn't come to that. If Puharic resigns before the convention, say this week, let the first order of business on March 24 be to elect an interim chairman - a Michael J Arnone, Marie Muhler or Steve Corodemus. Let the second order of business be the awarding of the party nominations for the county offices to the incumbents, including Anna Little and Joe Oxley, if they would accept them. Then have an orderly election for the legislative candidates. The final order of business should an announcement of a special convention in June, for the purpose of adapting By Laws.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
62% is today's magic number. That is the percentage of voters in the Politicsnj poll predicting that Adam Puharic will not survive as chairman, and the percentage of voters in the Lincoln/Reagan/Seward poll who favor Anna Little over her GOP challengers.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Can you believe that Adam worked on the GOP website, yet left that embarrassing link live? I suspect it will be down before noon.
This morning the GOP website only has the bios of legislative candidates.
Is this more than a technical glitch? Let's hope so. (Update at 11:05 am: The glitch has been fixed.)
Yesterday, Ronald Reagan reported that he surveyed the major players in the Monmouth GOP, including the new political director (John C Raue?). He reports that, "to a person they admit that the problem Monmouth Republicans face could be solved by the resignation of Adam Puharic and the granting of the line to Anna Little."
This morning, Reagan posted a method for removing the chairman at the convention.
I hope it doesn't come to that. If Puharic resigns before the convention, say this week, let the first order of business on March 24 be to elect an interim chairman - a Michael J Arnone, Marie Muhler or Steve Corodemus. Let the second order of business be the awarding of the party nominations for the county offices to the incumbents, including Anna Little and Joe Oxley, if they would accept them. Then have an orderly election for the legislative candidates. The final order of business should an announcement of a special convention in June, for the purpose of adapting By Laws.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
62% is today's magic number. That is the percentage of voters in the Politicsnj poll predicting that Adam Puharic will not survive as chairman, and the percentage of voters in the Lincoln/Reagan/Seward poll who favor Anna Little over her GOP challengers.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Can you believe that Adam worked on the GOP website, yet left that embarrassing link live? I suspect it will be down before noon.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Time to cut the crap
As many readers are aware, late last year and earlier this year, there was a vicious rumor campaign against Anna Little. The rumors were spread word of mouth and on a trashy blog. This blogger worked to find the truth, found that the rumors were false and waged a counter campaign to get the truth out and protect Anna Little's good name. Those tactics were similarly used against Jim Purcell, and he is taking legal action.
Now it has come to my attention that the same kind of smear tactics are being used against Adam Puharic. I am a critic of Adam's and some say I go overboard. I don't think I do.
However, there are some who oppose Adam who have been spreading rumors about him and financial impropriety involving his family's charity. Hints of those rumors made another blog today. To those spreading those rumors, I say PUT UP OR SHUT UP.
The tax returns for the charity are viewable online. I found them at at GuideStar.org. They show ZERO compensation for employees, officers and directors. Unless the rumor mongers know of skimming, and can prove it or are willing to testify that they witnessed it they should SHUT THE F UP.
I call what is going on false but plausible character assassination.
Here is how it works: Some lowlife who wants to discredit a political opponent studies their opponent's life and makes up a scandalous rumor that has no basis in fact but could be possible given the circumstances of the target's life. They repeat it to the biggest gossips around and before long everyone has heard it and a good person's name is tarnished.
Similar tactics are being employed against an Assembly candidate, but haven't hit any blogs yet.
This type of gorilla poltics has no place in Monmouth County and certainly not in the Monmouth GOP.
Those who are employing those tactics are warned now to stop or be exposed on this blog for your friends and enemies to read about.
As much as I do not support Adam continuing to serve as Chairman, I find the spreading of unsubstantiated rumors to be despicable. I defended Anna Little against them, and I will defend Adam against them too.
Now it has come to my attention that the same kind of smear tactics are being used against Adam Puharic. I am a critic of Adam's and some say I go overboard. I don't think I do.
However, there are some who oppose Adam who have been spreading rumors about him and financial impropriety involving his family's charity. Hints of those rumors made another blog today. To those spreading those rumors, I say PUT UP OR SHUT UP.
The tax returns for the charity are viewable online. I found them at at GuideStar.org. They show ZERO compensation for employees, officers and directors. Unless the rumor mongers know of skimming, and can prove it or are willing to testify that they witnessed it they should SHUT THE F UP.
I call what is going on false but plausible character assassination.
Here is how it works: Some lowlife who wants to discredit a political opponent studies their opponent's life and makes up a scandalous rumor that has no basis in fact but could be possible given the circumstances of the target's life. They repeat it to the biggest gossips around and before long everyone has heard it and a good person's name is tarnished.
Similar tactics are being employed against an Assembly candidate, but haven't hit any blogs yet.
This type of gorilla poltics has no place in Monmouth County and certainly not in the Monmouth GOP.
Those who are employing those tactics are warned now to stop or be exposed on this blog for your friends and enemies to read about.
As much as I do not support Adam continuing to serve as Chairman, I find the spreading of unsubstantiated rumors to be despicable. I defended Anna Little against them, and I will defend Adam against them too.
Confirmation
Adam Puharic's brief stint as a spokesman for the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Buearu is over.
Whether Puharic resigned or was terminated is unclear.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
More March Madness
Victor "Buddy" Amato is in the race for the GOP Sheriff nod. Amato is the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of the Monmouth County SPCA and the owner of Amato's Goju-Ryu, a Karate and Weapons Academy in West Keansburg. Grand Master Amato is well known and respected throughout the county, especially the Bayshore.
Kim Guadagno, an Assembly candidate in the 11th District announced that while she was flattered by the suggestion, she is not a candidate for Monmouth County Sheriff.
Benjamin R Harvey Construction Co, Inc. wants to quit the Hall of Records project and sue Anna Little, now that their cost over runs are being scrutinized. Bill Barham has threatened to sue Little too. Will Malcolm Carton recuse himself from this mess?
Georgetown crushed Pitt to win the Big East tournament, and is hoping for a # 1 seed in the Big Dance.
Anna Little is crushing her GOP challengers in the Lincoln/Reagan/Seward poll, with 67% of the vote. While dodging bullets in Freehold, she still hasn't decided who to dance with in November.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Lightshines said...
Thanks to Dion, Abraham, Martin and John.
Has anybody here seen our Grand Old Party
Can you tell me where it’s gone
We elected a lot of people
But it seems that those days all are fading
You know, I looked around and their gone
Anybody here seen our Grand Old Party
Can you tell me where it’s gone
Our great leaders have left us
We’re being run by vicious fools
Adam, Malcolm and Barham.
Anybody here seen our Grand Old Party
We were out on top for decades
We controlled the county
We never ever lost a race
Before Adam, Malcolm and Barham
Didn’t you love the things that we stood for?
Wasn’t our County the best that it could be
But now it’s gone
Adam’s still here, and we’re gonna keep losing
Anybody here seen our Grand Old Party
Can you tell me where it’s gone
Maybe it’ll come back when we finally get rid of
Adam, Malcolm and Barham
Malcolm Carton to Anna Little: What do you want from me for $400K?
Get the your own data on my bills since you're so smart.
Shut down the county if you want lower legal bills.
County Counsel Malcolm V. Carton has openly defied his new boss, Freeholder Anna C. Little. Little is the Freeholder responsible for overseeing the county Legal Department.
Carton and Freeholder Director Bill Barham have been rumoured to be the forces behind the campaign to discredit Little and remove her from office.
Meanwhile, in the new Lincoln/Reagan/Seward poll, after 24 hours Anna Little is leading her challengers with 60% of the vote. Marlboro Councilman Jeff Cantor, who is on active military duty is second with 26%. Spring Lake Councilman Brain Reilly has 11% and Bill Barham's choice, Ocean Township Committeeman J. David Hier has one vote.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Friday, March 09, 2007
We'll sadly accept your resignation
Should Adam Resign?
No 48 25%
Yes 137 74%
Total votes: 185
The results of the first ever Reagan/Seward poll are complete and 74% of the respondents want Adam Puharic to resign.
We'll accept it sadly, because you chased away Freeholder Little and she's probably not coming back.
We'll accept it sadly, because you stopped the Sheriff and you used to be his deputy. He's probably not coming back.
We'll accept it sadly, because you promised to unite us and we are more deeply divided than previously imaginable.
We'll accept it sadly, because despite all the damage you have done, we like you. We are embarrassed for you. We want the spectacle to stop.
Go home. Take care of your family.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Breaking News
Reports are coming in that Adam Puharic has lost his job at the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Bureau.
One source says that Puharic failed to disclose his role as the Monmouth GOP chair on his employment application. This would not jive with Adam's statement to the APP that he and "bureau attorneys created a fire wall" to enable Adam to continue as Monmouth GOP chair and comply with the Hatch Act.
This is sad news, if true. This is not the job that this blogger wanted Adam to leave.
More updates will be made as information becomes available.
One source says that Puharic failed to disclose his role as the Monmouth GOP chair on his employment application. This would not jive with Adam's statement to the APP that he and "bureau attorneys created a fire wall" to enable Adam to continue as Monmouth GOP chair and comply with the Hatch Act.
This is sad news, if true. This is not the job that this blogger wanted Adam to leave.
More updates will be made as information becomes available.
We interupt our regularly scheduled program...
...to congratulate Wally Edge on the sale of Politicsnj.com, "The Center of Gravity for New Jersey Politics" to the Observer Media Group, owner of the New York Observer.
Check out the new site. It looks great and has new bloggers like Christy Todd Whitman and Bob Torricelli participating.
To my shock and utter disbelief, MoreMonmouthMusings is included in the Politicsnj blog roll. One of only 14 blogs. Thank you Wally and continued success.
Note to Observer Media: Adam Puharic, Bill Barham, Malcolm Carton and Mrs. Seward would be very happy if you bought MoreMonmouthMusings.
Check out the new site. It looks great and has new bloggers like Christy Todd Whitman and Bob Torricelli participating.
To my shock and utter disbelief, MoreMonmouthMusings is included in the Politicsnj blog roll. One of only 14 blogs. Thank you Wally and continued success.
Note to Observer Media: Adam Puharic, Bill Barham, Malcolm Carton and Mrs. Seward would be very happy if you bought MoreMonmouthMusings.
What's next?
The rumours and speculation are all over the place on the Adam Watch. There are reports of numerous complaints to his job and to OSC. This blogger has not yet made a complaint to OSC, in the hopes that Puharic would resign for the good of his family. High level support of Adam is reportedly crumbling, but Adam is said to be standing firm. "When we win in November, none of this will matter," is his new mantra.
Last year at this time when we had a "cancerous" open convention system, Freeholder and Surogate candidates were scrambling all over the county. Speaking at club meetings, making phone calls, stuffing envelopes, knocking on doors, and other toxic activities like that. This year with the legislature up for grabs we have more candidates, yet they are running for cover rather than getting their message out. Screening committee members are scrambling for a qualified Sheriff candidate.
This evening the drama will shift to the Hall of Records for round two of the Battle of the Budget. If you haven't been to a Freeholder meeting in a while, or if ever, this should be a good one.
Meanwhile, after 96 hours of the first ever Reagan/Seward online poll, 72% of the respondents favor Adam resigning. The poll closes at midnight, by order of Ronald Reagan.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
And for his next number...Lightshines says...
Adam would like you to know:
Thanks to the Drifters – We’ll soon be “On Broadway” (click for sound)
They say the Press’ lights are bright
in Freehold
They say they’re laying all my faults out there
But when I’m walking down Main Street
and I control who gets a seat
The catcalls rub right off and I don’t care
They say that I’m no good for the GOP
in Freehold
But I’m still here - I know that gives them the blues
Cause I already lost one seat
And in November we’ll be beat
But even though we lose, I’ll still be here
I can’t raise funds, so what, I never could
I can’t unite, or do anything I should
But I’ve got power, the party be damn’d
Billy’s got my back, the party’s Barham’d
And I won’t quit til the party’s dead
in Freehold
My ego’s all that matters to me
I never cared for the GOP you see
And Billy’s got my back as we fold
in Freehold
Where's Adam?
12th district Assembly candidate Tom Gilmour's withdrawal letter is sent out "Wireside" fashion by someone named John C. Raue, Political Director of the Monmouth GOP. The APP has an article this morning about the GOP scramble to replace Sheriff Oxley. Reporter Bob Jordan quotes Middletown Chairman Peter Carton and Freehold Township Chairman Tom Aspostle, with no mention of Puharic.
One insider who's known Adam for years says his disappearing act is no surprise. When things go bad for Adam he tends to go under the radar and stop taking phone calls.
Puharic did get his name in the paper today though. The APP editorial board joined the growing chorus calling for Adam to resign.
Speaking of growing choruses, attendees of Saturday's screening committee meeting, the one where Sheriff Oxley dropped his bombshell withdrawal, are beginning to sing. And the tune is not in harmony with the song Wall Chairman Bob McKenna and Carton spun in yesterday's APP. One screening committee member, an elected official up for re-election this year, reportedly demanded a time table for Adam's resignation. The people in the room maybe have been "supportive" of Adam, but personally, not as Chairman.
Even political outsiders have joined the chorus of wondering when Adam will resign. The situation was reportedly a topic of conversation last evening at a meeting of the Puharics' charity.
Meanwhile, after 72 hours, 70% of the respondents in the first ever Reagan/Seward poll favor Adam resigning.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Who is John C Raue, and how did he get your email address?
John C. Raue
Political Director
Monmouth County Republican Committee
www.MonmouthRepublican.org
info@MonmouthRepublican.org
732.431.6664
Is this part of the "firewall?" Puharic is not allowed to communicate with the county committee at all? I didn't see a request for funds in that email.
What gives?
Political Director
Monmouth County Republican Committee
www.MonmouthRepublican.org
info@MonmouthRepublican.org
732.431.6664
Is this part of the "firewall?" Puharic is not allowed to communicate with the county committee at all? I didn't see a request for funds in that email.
What gives?
GOP split on whether chairman should resign - APP
"It's inconceivable that a county chairman could do the job without being involved in fundraising." "I wouldn't describe myself as being a great fundraiser, but it was unavoidable that I would spend 10 to 20 percent of my time working on raising money," ~ Former GOP Chairman William Dowd
"He actually offerred to resign(to the screening committee on March 3) if it was perceived as a problem to the party, because he did not want to become more the center of attention as we proceed through the election season" "Everyone at the meeting bar none was supportive of Adam." ~ Wall Municipal Chairman Bob McKenna
"It sounds like Adam has gone above and beyond what's required. All of us who heard him out support him. We're so fortunate to have someone not looking to game the system." "It sounds like a lot of what Adam has done will be done by a finance committee. I don't see why that can't be tried." ~ Middletown GOP Chairman Peter Carton.
"He cannot do any fundraising. If he can't do any, what good is he as a chairman or leader?" ~ Atlantic Highlands Chairwoman Jane Frotton, who called on Puharic to resign.
A meeting of municipals chairs held Monday night at headquarters was sparsely attended. Puharic did not offer his resignation.
Meanwhile, after 48 hours, 70% of the responders in the first ever Reagan/Seward poll favor Puharic resigning.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
The headline of this post links to the APP article.
"He actually offerred to resign(to the screening committee on March 3) if it was perceived as a problem to the party, because he did not want to become more the center of attention as we proceed through the election season" "Everyone at the meeting bar none was supportive of Adam." ~ Wall Municipal Chairman Bob McKenna
"It sounds like Adam has gone above and beyond what's required. All of us who heard him out support him. We're so fortunate to have someone not looking to game the system." "It sounds like a lot of what Adam has done will be done by a finance committee. I don't see why that can't be tried." ~ Middletown GOP Chairman Peter Carton.
"He cannot do any fundraising. If he can't do any, what good is he as a chairman or leader?" ~ Atlantic Highlands Chairwoman Jane Frotton, who called on Puharic to resign.
A meeting of municipals chairs held Monday night at headquarters was sparsely attended. Puharic did not offer his resignation.
Meanwhile, after 48 hours, 70% of the responders in the first ever Reagan/Seward poll favor Puharic resigning.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
The headline of this post links to the APP article.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Gilmore is out
Fair Haven Councilman has withdrawn from the race for the Republican nomination for Assembly in the 12th district, according to the Asbury Park Press.
Declan O'Scanlon and Caroline Casagrande are now unopposed for the nomination at the convention.
Lightshines said...
Thanks to Eric Clapton and Bob Marley:(click here for sound, thanks to O Ima-bin Fishin)
I stopped the sheriff, and I used to be his deputy
I stopped the sheriff, and I used to be his deputy.
All around the County’s towns
They’re trying to take me down
They say I violated federal law
some old law with a name of “Hatch.”
Some dumb law with a name of “Hatch.”
Good Republicans always hated me
For what I do not know
Every time that I issue a decree
They say this is unAmerican
They say this is unAmerican.
I say
I stopped the sheriff, though I used to be his deputy
I stopped the sheriff, and I also stopped the freeholder
I don’t have to follow the law
‘Cause I’m a powerful guy
But these rank and file party members
are trying to make me frown
So I shut, shut their candidates down
I say
I stopped the sheriff, and I also stopped the freeholder
I stopped the sheriff, and I also stopped the freeholder
The blogs are trying to get the better of me
But my goons protect me you see
Every day that I stay in power
Their plans (and the party) goes sour
Their plans (and the party) goes sour
But I say
I stopped the sheriff, though I used to be his deputy
I stopped the sheriff, and I’ll do it to the whole party.
Sheriff Guadagno?
Politicnj.com is reporting that former Assistant US Attorney Kim Guadagno could emerge as a stong candidate for Monmouth County Sheriff.
Guadagno is a member of the Monmouth Beach governing body and a candidate for the Republican nomination for Assembly in the 11th district.
71% favor Adam resigning
After twenty four hours of the first ever Reagan/Seward online poll, 71% of the respondents favor Adam's resignation as chairman of the Monmouth County Puharican Party.
Polling closes on Thursday.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Polling closes on Thursday.
NOTE: Poll results are not scientific and reflect the opinions of only those users who chose to participate. Adam Puharic believes in the veracity of online polls.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Just in case you missed it. Removed from "News" section of the Monouth GOP website.
Join us for a kickoff to St. Patrick’s Day week with County Clerk Claire French!
02/27/2007
It is my pleasure to announce a Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration being jointly hosted by the Monmouth County Republican Committee and Claire French Monmouth County Clerk.
Come meet your 2007 legislative candidates from the 12th, 11th, and 13th legislative districts representing Monmouth County, all have been invited to give brief remarks. Don't forget to wear your green!
Monday, March 12, 2007
5:00pm to 7:00pm
Clancy’s Tavern
25 South Main Street
Neptune, NJ 07753
Contribution: $100 per person
To RSVP or for more information contact: Jamie Montgomery at (856) 810-7390 or jmontgomery@turnkeyproductions.net
---------------------------------------------------------------
Adam Puharic, Chairman
Monmouth County Republican Party
www.MonmouthRepublican.org
info@MonmouthRepublican.org
732.431.6664
----------------------------------------------------------------------
With all that Adam had to deal with yesterday, it is amazing that he had the presence of mind to remove this announcement from the party's website.
Apparently the event is not canceled, as it still appears in the Calender section. Adam must have had another reason for removing it.
Is this a "firewall" or a cover up?
"This took a lot of soul searching. The timing just seems right." - Joe Oxley
With a power vacuum in the Monmouth GOP, caused by the deaths, retirements and indictments of many long term leaders, the timing should be right for young men and women with distinguished records of service and high popularity to step up and provide the leadership this county and this party needs for the next decade.
Instead, we have all stars in their prime going out on the top of their game; albeit, without a champion's belt. We have an up and coming star not welcome on the team. We have a controversal leader with one hand legally tied behind his back.
We have upcoming races that should have been slam dunks suddenly competitve. Suddenly, the whole county is competive, with the possible exception of one district where the senior candidate plays for both sides.
Things are not looking good for the Monmouth GOP. As my friend Abe has been saying lately, it didn't have to be this way.
Instead, we have all stars in their prime going out on the top of their game; albeit, without a champion's belt. We have an up and coming star not welcome on the team. We have a controversal leader with one hand legally tied behind his back.
We have upcoming races that should have been slam dunks suddenly competitve. Suddenly, the whole county is competive, with the possible exception of one district where the senior candidate plays for both sides.
Things are not looking good for the Monmouth GOP. As my friend Abe has been saying lately, it didn't have to be this way.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Oxley to Puharic: Pound Salt
UPDATE
The APP is reporting that Oxley will not seek re-election, saying that he wants to "go out on top of his game."
Sheriff Joe Oxley showed up for the screening committee today, gave the group of 24 plus Adam Puharic a piece of his mind and told them he is not seeking their support.
Contray to what is being reported by Ronald Reagan, Oxley did not say he is not running for re-election.
Contrary to Puharic's "Wireside Chats" and statements to the press, Oxley never filed a letter of intent with the party and never submitted a background check questionnaire or contract.
Oxley has joined Anna Litte in standing up to the Puharicization of the Monmouth GOP. Neither Little nor Oxley have announced their plans for re-election.
Talk of an alternative line in the June 9th primary is increasing. Speculation is that Jim Giannell supporters and the Walsh camp in Howell may join forces to lead such an effort.
A high placed source in the Monmouth Democratic Party said that both Joe Oxley and Anna Little would have strong support and would likely be nominated if either of them switched partys.
Pressure on Adam Puharic to resign as chairman is increasing.
The APP is reporting that Oxley will not seek re-election, saying that he wants to "go out on top of his game."
Sheriff Joe Oxley showed up for the screening committee today, gave the group of 24 plus Adam Puharic a piece of his mind and told them he is not seeking their support.
Contray to what is being reported by Ronald Reagan, Oxley did not say he is not running for re-election.
Contrary to Puharic's "Wireside Chats" and statements to the press, Oxley never filed a letter of intent with the party and never submitted a background check questionnaire or contract.
Oxley has joined Anna Litte in standing up to the Puharicization of the Monmouth GOP. Neither Little nor Oxley have announced their plans for re-election.
Talk of an alternative line in the June 9th primary is increasing. Speculation is that Jim Giannell supporters and the Walsh camp in Howell may join forces to lead such an effort.
A high placed source in the Monmouth Democratic Party said that both Joe Oxley and Anna Little would have strong support and would likely be nominated if either of them switched partys.
Pressure on Adam Puharic to resign as chairman is increasing.
Screening Results Prediction
Rob Clifton gets an endorsement and is unopposed for nomination.
J. David Hier and Jeff Cantor get to compete for Anna Little's seat.
J. David Hier and Jeff Cantor get to compete for Anna Little's seat.
Puharic confirms Federal Employment. Stops Fundraising.
APP:
Puharic said his duties as GOP chairman are being altered due to a career change. Puharic began work this week as a public affairs officer at the Newark office of the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. His salary is $91,700.
Because of the federal Hatch Act — which spells out permitted and prohibited political activity of executive branch employees of the federal government — Puharic said he is no longer directly participating in fundraising for the party.
"I'm becoming a delegator and chief. The bureau attorneys and I have created firewalls between me and the fundraising aspect of the party," said Puharic, who left Monmouth Medical Center for his new position. "I was always a hands-on person with the party, the kind who put up signs himself, licked the envelopes and raised the money himself. But it's really the message that raises the money, and this change also allows new people to take on new responsibilities. We have a lot of excellent fund-raisers working for the party."
A loyal reader of this blog pointed out that Puharic has apparently started out at Step 4 of the GS-13 pay scale.
When Puharic was running for chairman, he promised to unite the party and to be a great fundraiser.
When Fred Neimann announced that he wouldn't seek a second term as chairman he said, "If fund raising is going to become all consuming in order to be competitive I chose not to run for re-election.'' Hands On Puharic better become a good delegator very quickly. Does the federal "firewall" permit him to manage those he has delegated fundraising tasks to?
Who is served by this new arrangement? Puharic is now in his third job since becoming chair. Would the screening committee approve a candidate with that kind of instablitity for a job that the candidate must recuse himself from one of the primary responsiblites of the post? Has Puharic united the party?
This is NUTS.
Puharic said his duties as GOP chairman are being altered due to a career change. Puharic began work this week as a public affairs officer at the Newark office of the U.S. Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. His salary is $91,700.
Because of the federal Hatch Act — which spells out permitted and prohibited political activity of executive branch employees of the federal government — Puharic said he is no longer directly participating in fundraising for the party.
"I'm becoming a delegator and chief. The bureau attorneys and I have created firewalls between me and the fundraising aspect of the party," said Puharic, who left Monmouth Medical Center for his new position. "I was always a hands-on person with the party, the kind who put up signs himself, licked the envelopes and raised the money himself. But it's really the message that raises the money, and this change also allows new people to take on new responsibilities. We have a lot of excellent fund-raisers working for the party."
A loyal reader of this blog pointed out that Puharic has apparently started out at Step 4 of the GS-13 pay scale.
When Puharic was running for chairman, he promised to unite the party and to be a great fundraiser.
When Fred Neimann announced that he wouldn't seek a second term as chairman he said, "If fund raising is going to become all consuming in order to be competitive I chose not to run for re-election.'' Hands On Puharic better become a good delegator very quickly. Does the federal "firewall" permit him to manage those he has delegated fundraising tasks to?
Who is served by this new arrangement? Puharic is now in his third job since becoming chair. Would the screening committee approve a candidate with that kind of instablitity for a job that the candidate must recuse himself from one of the primary responsiblites of the post? Has Puharic united the party?
This is NUTS.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Good morning Adam. Thanks for checking in.
Using a government issued PDA for political activity?
I think its time you resign as chairman. Don't you?
unwgsgs2.cbp.dhs.gov (Sprint)
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gop-of-mc.blogspot.com/moremonmouthmusings.blogspot.com/
I think its time you resign as chairman. Don't you?
unwgsgs2.cbp.dhs.gov (Sprint)
New Jersey, Stanhope, United States, 0 returning visits
Date
Time
WebPage
2nd March 2007
08:33:16 AM
search.optonline.net/_1_2Y3VU1I024GDN5D__info.cablev/search/web/moremonmouthmusingsmoremonmouthmusings.blogspot.com/
2nd March 2007
08:33:36 AM
search.optonline.net/_1_2Y3VU1I024GDN5D__info.cablev/search/web/moremonmouthmusingsmoremonmouthmusings.blogspot.com/
2nd March 2007
08:34:47 AM
gop-of-mc.blogspot.com/moremonmouthmusings.blogspot.com/
2nd March 2007
08:38:12 AM
gop-of-mc.blogspot.com/moremonmouthmusings.blogspot.com/
2nd March 2007
08:39:18 AM
gop-of-mc.blogspot.com/moremonmouthmusings.blogspot.com/
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