Congratulations to Freeholder Little and the Monmouth County GOP Committee
It was wonderful to see a 57% turnout for the convention to select our new Freeholder. Thank you to all who came out to Manalapan. For many it was a long drive. 450 + volunteers, elected (in most cases) by their respective communities took time away from their weekend routines to select a new office holder. Judging by how quickly the room cleared out when Mrs. Little’s victory was apparent, it is clear that these are busy people who had other things to do.
The convention was an example of what is great about our Republic, our county and our party.
Now is the time for us to unite behind Freeholder Little. Let there be no convention or primary challenge. We have a good candidate who will prove to be an excellent Freeholder. The leadership of the various factions should come together and put their differences aside. Let’s hope that the selection of our other two candidates, one Freeholder and the Surrogate will be free of the acrimony that existed behind the scenes and on the blogs in this most recent race. If Ted and Marie both re-up the selections will be easy. Let’s hope they make their intentions known soon. We are probably in for another sprint of a campaign. Let’s hope that this race will bring people together, in healthy and respectful competition.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Friday, February 24, 2006
Down to the Wire
The biggest question going into tomorrow Title 19 election to fill Monmouth County’s Freeholder seat is, Will there be a quorum? Will 401 Republican County Committee Members show up to vote? Will committee members from east of Route 34 make the trek to Manalapan?
The race is shaping up as a match up between Howell Mayor Joe DiBella and Highlands Councilwoman Anna Little.
As the establishment candidate, DiBella still has an edge, despite his problems in Howell and the press attention they have received this week.
Little and her growing entourage have been crisscrossing the county and burning the phones gathering support. The “Little Lady from a Little Town” has developed a powerful message and established herself as an emerging star.
Wall’s Bob McKenna has been a disappointment. While he has been trying to tone down his “in your face” style, McKenna lite is not playing well either. Even his Wall support is weakening. Whispers about his past advocacy of eminent domain and his “Middletown gets everything” comments will make him a first ballot casualty. His attempts to make deals with other candidates have fallen short.
Marlboro Mayor Kleinberg’s on again, off again, on again campaign has had too many adjustments.
Bridget Antonucci is not ready for prime time. She has gained some name recognition, but won’t get 20 votes.
Tom DeSeno as established himself as a future star and should be considered a serious candidate in November if Ted doesn’t run.
My prediction: No quorum and the seat remains vacant. If I’m wrong about that, Little on the second ballot.
The biggest question going into tomorrow Title 19 election to fill Monmouth County’s Freeholder seat is, Will there be a quorum? Will 401 Republican County Committee Members show up to vote? Will committee members from east of Route 34 make the trek to Manalapan?
The race is shaping up as a match up between Howell Mayor Joe DiBella and Highlands Councilwoman Anna Little.
As the establishment candidate, DiBella still has an edge, despite his problems in Howell and the press attention they have received this week.
Little and her growing entourage have been crisscrossing the county and burning the phones gathering support. The “Little Lady from a Little Town” has developed a powerful message and established herself as an emerging star.
Wall’s Bob McKenna has been a disappointment. While he has been trying to tone down his “in your face” style, McKenna lite is not playing well either. Even his Wall support is weakening. Whispers about his past advocacy of eminent domain and his “Middletown gets everything” comments will make him a first ballot casualty. His attempts to make deals with other candidates have fallen short.
Marlboro Mayor Kleinberg’s on again, off again, on again campaign has had too many adjustments.
Bridget Antonucci is not ready for prime time. She has gained some name recognition, but won’t get 20 votes.
Tom DeSeno as established himself as a future star and should be considered a serious candidate in November if Ted doesn’t run.
My prediction: No quorum and the seat remains vacant. If I’m wrong about that, Little on the second ballot.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
“There you go again” ---The real Ronald Reagan in a Presidential debate against President Jimmy Carter, October 1980
Some have alleged that blogger “Ronald Reagan” is Fred Neimann and Dan Gallic. I hope this is not the case, as this blogger is certainly not adhering to President Reagan’s 11th commandment, “Thou shall not speak ill of fellow Republicans”
Who ever you are RR, I suggest you change your moniker to Richard Nixon or Alan Spector if you are going to continue to stir up the negativity. And get your facts straight. Honest Abe was at his namesake dinner. Your attendance figures have been disputed elsewhere…back them up. If 750 attended produce the bill for 750 from Garden Manor.
Little’s team did a great job, and shame on the other candidates for not doing the same and being prepared to politic at a political event. There had to be at least 100 “Get A lot for Little” stickers being worn and the Little cocktail napkins being distributed by the wait staff and bartenders was brilliant! If this smart team runs the campaign in November we are in for victory.
You forgot to mention that in addition to Jim Purcell’s editorial that the Little team distributed my endorsement, which I found quite amusing.
Distributing Purcell’s editorial might have ruffled a few Middletown feathers, but Peter and the gang are too smart to let that get in the way of their supporting the best candidate, who happens to be the one who was raised in Middletown, Councilwoman Anna Little of Highlands.
Some have alleged that blogger “Ronald Reagan” is Fred Neimann and Dan Gallic. I hope this is not the case, as this blogger is certainly not adhering to President Reagan’s 11th commandment, “Thou shall not speak ill of fellow Republicans”
Who ever you are RR, I suggest you change your moniker to Richard Nixon or Alan Spector if you are going to continue to stir up the negativity. And get your facts straight. Honest Abe was at his namesake dinner. Your attendance figures have been disputed elsewhere…back them up. If 750 attended produce the bill for 750 from Garden Manor.
Little’s team did a great job, and shame on the other candidates for not doing the same and being prepared to politic at a political event. There had to be at least 100 “Get A lot for Little” stickers being worn and the Little cocktail napkins being distributed by the wait staff and bartenders was brilliant! If this smart team runs the campaign in November we are in for victory.
You forgot to mention that in addition to Jim Purcell’s editorial that the Little team distributed my endorsement, which I found quite amusing.
Distributing Purcell’s editorial might have ruffled a few Middletown feathers, but Peter and the gang are too smart to let that get in the way of their supporting the best candidate, who happens to be the one who was raised in Middletown, Councilwoman Anna Little of Highlands.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Little Gets My Endorsement
Having considered all the candidates William H. Seward has concluded that Councilwoman Anna Little of Highlands is the best choice to fill the open Freeholder seat.
She is a classy candidate. Not a negative word about any of her opponents. No meaningful controversy about her stands on the issues, her professionalism or her qualifications. The immigration lawyer controversy is a non-starter and a lame attempt by those who support other candidates to knock her.
She will work well with the current Freeholders and she will be a strong candidate in November. She is the best candidate for the party to unite behind. She will be a very good Freeholder and a strong asset to our party for years to come.
The only other serious candidates are Joe DiBella of Howell and Bob McKenna of Wall. Neither Bridget, Kleinberg nor DeSeno have a serious shot.
There is just too much controversy around DiBella. He should mend his fences in Howell and build a track record as Mayor for a full term or two before moving on to higher office. Joe on our ticket is the Democrats best chance of winning a seat in November.
McKenna is controversial for other reasons. His angry,combative style and attacks of the current Freeholder Board indicate that should he be elected to fill the open seat that there will be more division and acrimony on the Board than there is now and worse, that it will be very public. Bob’s stand for lower county spending is a good one, but he needs to sell it rather than ram it down the throats of his fellow Republicans. Bob’s position that he will not be a Freeholder candidate in November if he doesn’t get his way this time is immature and arrogant. He needs to get rid of the holier than thou attitude and polish up the salesmanship skills that made him a great insurance broker. He has a lot to contribute and he disempowers himself and the party by stating that he won’t contribute if he doesn’t get his way.
If Bob can lose the attitude, he would be a more effective chairman than any of the other candidates mentioned so far. He would also be a good Freeholder candidate if Ted doesn’t run. But he shouldn’t seek or hold both positions.
So there you have it my fellow Monmouth County Republicans. For the good of our county and the good of our part, I encourage you to elect Councilwoman Anna Little of Highlands as our next Freeholder.
Having considered all the candidates William H. Seward has concluded that Councilwoman Anna Little of Highlands is the best choice to fill the open Freeholder seat.
She is a classy candidate. Not a negative word about any of her opponents. No meaningful controversy about her stands on the issues, her professionalism or her qualifications. The immigration lawyer controversy is a non-starter and a lame attempt by those who support other candidates to knock her.
She will work well with the current Freeholders and she will be a strong candidate in November. She is the best candidate for the party to unite behind. She will be a very good Freeholder and a strong asset to our party for years to come.
The only other serious candidates are Joe DiBella of Howell and Bob McKenna of Wall. Neither Bridget, Kleinberg nor DeSeno have a serious shot.
There is just too much controversy around DiBella. He should mend his fences in Howell and build a track record as Mayor for a full term or two before moving on to higher office. Joe on our ticket is the Democrats best chance of winning a seat in November.
McKenna is controversial for other reasons. His angry,combative style and attacks of the current Freeholder Board indicate that should he be elected to fill the open seat that there will be more division and acrimony on the Board than there is now and worse, that it will be very public. Bob’s stand for lower county spending is a good one, but he needs to sell it rather than ram it down the throats of his fellow Republicans. Bob’s position that he will not be a Freeholder candidate in November if he doesn’t get his way this time is immature and arrogant. He needs to get rid of the holier than thou attitude and polish up the salesmanship skills that made him a great insurance broker. He has a lot to contribute and he disempowers himself and the party by stating that he won’t contribute if he doesn’t get his way.
If Bob can lose the attitude, he would be a more effective chairman than any of the other candidates mentioned so far. He would also be a good Freeholder candidate if Ted doesn’t run. But he shouldn’t seek or hold both positions.
So there you have it my fellow Monmouth County Republicans. For the good of our county and the good of our part, I encourage you to elect Councilwoman Anna Little of Highlands as our next Freeholder.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Saturday, January 28, 2006
OVERHEARD AT THE AFFILATED CANDIDATES NIGHT
About DiBella:
"Charismatic."
"Good speaker"
"I didn't like that he laid off all those people in Howell. How do you face those families. I don't think he will play well in November."
"Insincere"
"What is he really running for? Isn't Sayreville closer to the Ocean than Howell? He really wants to live in Washington."
About Little:
"Genuine"
"I like her. Have a good feeling about her"
"She needs more meat in her message"
"She's not so little"
"Highlands or Atlantic Highlands?"
About Reilly:
About McKenna:
"Zing"
"Angry"
"He's right, but who wants to be preached to."
About Peters:
"She wants to finish the Arts Center in Middletown"
"She wants the Surogate job if Ted runs. Ted's spot if he doesn't"
"Carton made a deal with Howell."
About DiBella:
"Charismatic."
"Good speaker"
"I didn't like that he laid off all those people in Howell. How do you face those families. I don't think he will play well in November."
"Insincere"
"What is he really running for? Isn't Sayreville closer to the Ocean than Howell? He really wants to live in Washington."
About Little:
"Genuine"
"I like her. Have a good feeling about her"
"She needs more meat in her message"
"She's not so little"
"Highlands or Atlantic Highlands?"
About Reilly:
About McKenna:
"Zing"
"Angry"
"He's right, but who wants to be preached to."
About Peters:
"She wants to finish the Arts Center in Middletown"
"She wants the Surogate job if Ted runs. Ted's spot if he doesn't"
"Carton made a deal with Howell."
Monday, January 23, 2006
Sunday, January 22, 2006
What about the 6th Congressional District Seat?
While Republicans across Monmouth County jockey and fight over who will move up from A ball to AA ball to take Amy Handlin's Freeholder Seat, and Ted's spot of the ticket if he retires, why is there no talk of unseating Frank Pallone?
Yeah, I know several AA and AAA players have challenged him and got their butts kicked in the past, and 98% of all Congressional incumbents cruise to re-election, but I am the only one who thinks Pallone is vulnerable?
Let's start with the fact that Pallone doesn't want the job. He wants to be a US Senator or Govenor, but he's never been willing to risk his "safe" seat to run for the jobs he really wants. He wasn't even willing to risk his safe seat to take on Forrester for Senator when Torricelli quit. He's taking the voters of the 6th district for granted.
Pallone, trying to court favor with Jon Corzine, damaged his support among his own base when he tried to get Scudiery to resign as Democratic County Chairman.
Pallone will not wage a primary battle with Menendez because he is a wimp. But us Republicans are bigger wimps because we concede the seat.
Now is the time for us to take this seat.
So, who would be the perfect candidate? I nominate Joe Azzolina. He would be perfect and he could win. He has support in the Middlesex part of the district, and he's got great name recognition throughout the district. Even the Middletown Republicans could unite behind him, over Judith Stanley's objections, because Joe would only hold the seat a term or two before retiring and the seat would be open to all our ambitious public servants.
Joe's candiacy would help Tom Kean Jr carry Monmouth by the large margin he will need to win in November. I hope Tom Sr calls Joe and once again asks him to come off the bench.
And it would be great for Joe. If he wins he's over the bitter defeat he suffered last year. If he loses, he has still restored his relationship with the party he loves.
Go for it Joe . At least give us someone to vote for other than Ric or Sylvester Nobodyknows
While Republicans across Monmouth County jockey and fight over who will move up from A ball to AA ball to take Amy Handlin's Freeholder Seat, and Ted's spot of the ticket if he retires, why is there no talk of unseating Frank Pallone?
Yeah, I know several AA and AAA players have challenged him and got their butts kicked in the past, and 98% of all Congressional incumbents cruise to re-election, but I am the only one who thinks Pallone is vulnerable?
Let's start with the fact that Pallone doesn't want the job. He wants to be a US Senator or Govenor, but he's never been willing to risk his "safe" seat to run for the jobs he really wants. He wasn't even willing to risk his safe seat to take on Forrester for Senator when Torricelli quit. He's taking the voters of the 6th district for granted.
Pallone, trying to court favor with Jon Corzine, damaged his support among his own base when he tried to get Scudiery to resign as Democratic County Chairman.
Pallone will not wage a primary battle with Menendez because he is a wimp. But us Republicans are bigger wimps because we concede the seat.
Now is the time for us to take this seat.
So, who would be the perfect candidate? I nominate Joe Azzolina. He would be perfect and he could win. He has support in the Middlesex part of the district, and he's got great name recognition throughout the district. Even the Middletown Republicans could unite behind him, over Judith Stanley's objections, because Joe would only hold the seat a term or two before retiring and the seat would be open to all our ambitious public servants.
Joe's candiacy would help Tom Kean Jr carry Monmouth by the large margin he will need to win in November. I hope Tom Sr calls Joe and once again asks him to come off the bench.
And it would be great for Joe. If he wins he's over the bitter defeat he suffered last year. If he loses, he has still restored his relationship with the party he loves.
Go for it Joe . At least give us someone to vote for other than Ric or Sylvester Nobodyknows
Friday, January 20, 2006
moremonmouthmusings
JIM_PURCELL said...
Say Bill:Seeing as you're so community-minded...here's a suggestion (since you're having so much fun with the "air bath" thing). How about you and I have a charity sporting event for Deborah or perhaps Middletown Helps Its Own or something like that. We can do something that would be striking... and maybe a little different. Maybe we could do something that neither of us have done before... like, say...boxing. That's pretty fun to watch for the crowd. And, since you're having so much fun with me and my physical condition, then it shouldn't be too much of a problem for yo uto decide about. I have a friend, Buddy Amato, in West Keansburg, who has the insurance and a dojo (complete with a ring and equipment...if you like) and we can sell tickets and raise a few bucks for our favorite causes (for me, I'd probably donate whatever to Keansburg Pop Warner). Heck, I know that someone like yourself (probably strapping and very athletic) will probably have a lot of fun and walk away with a great big "W"...right? Not to mention the satisfaction of proving something very decisive.If you want to wear a mask...feel free...I promise not to look. I mean, we're talking about a controlled, referee'd charity event. Surely, since you've been laughing so hard at the "air bath" thing that should be no big deal. Or, I guess, you might want to hide your "secret identity" a little more closely? Maybe you don't want to show up because someone might recognize you. I'd understand. So, still laughing "Billy"?I'm game if you are "Bill." So, you name the time, I got the place and there's a lot of kids out there that can benefit from you walking away with some charity money. You know what...just to kick things off...I'll pledge $200 of my own money. I mean, it's not a lot, but for a guy like you that should be pocket change.Think about it and give me a buzz. Can't wait to hear from you, Mr. Secretary. Remember, good causes deserve our best efforts...right?
6:46 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim,For someone who throws insults around as much as you do, its ironic that you are so sensitive to my jeering. I suggest you tone down the insults and now you want to throw punches!Sorry if you were offended by my "worse visual" comment, but it wasn't meant to poke fun at your physical condition. Even if you were a hunk, you've got to admit that you and I in a circle jerk is a worse visual image than either you or Ben Franklin taking an air bath.I accept your challenge, but a need some time to train, and for the weather to break because I suggest that we do this in the true Olympian tradition and in honour of air baths, naked. Between us we could probably get the permits to do so out at Sandy Hook. The potential money we could raise would be much greater if we did it this way, especially if you promoted the event in your paper.I'd be surprised if each member of the Middletown Township Committee didn't donate $1000 each. Peter Carton would probably donate $10,000. This could be a really unifying event. Fred Nieman, Bill Dowd and Vic Scudary would all be united behind us. Both Judy Stanley-Coleman and Jim Wassell would contribute. Judge Coleman could be the referee. I won't even wear a mask and I don't care if you look.Terry and Serena could take turns holding the cards between rounds, assuming we last beyond one round.You could have Director Bill be in your corner. I'll try to get Jennifer or Amy. I think I'd fight harder for Jen, but Amy would be more motivated to inspire me.Like you said, good causes deserve our best efforts, so if we are going to do this, lets make sure we raise as much as possible. If you accept my conditions I'll match your personal contribution 10-1 and you can choose which charities get the money.Give me a call. I'm closer than you think. One of your staff met me face to face this month. If you call me today I'll give $200 to Keansburg Pop Warner.
5:59 AM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Say Bill:Seeing as you're so community-minded...here's a suggestion (since you're having so much fun with the "air bath" thing). How about you and I have a charity sporting event for Deborah or perhaps Middletown Helps Its Own or something like that. We can do something that would be striking... and maybe a little different. Maybe we could do something that neither of us have done before... like, say...boxing. That's pretty fun to watch for the crowd. And, since you're having so much fun with me and my physical condition, then it shouldn't be too much of a problem for yo uto decide about. I have a friend, Buddy Amato, in West Keansburg, who has the insurance and a dojo (complete with a ring and equipment...if you like) and we can sell tickets and raise a few bucks for our favorite causes (for me, I'd probably donate whatever to Keansburg Pop Warner). Heck, I know that someone like yourself (probably strapping and very athletic) will probably have a lot of fun and walk away with a great big "W"...right? Not to mention the satisfaction of proving something very decisive.If you want to wear a mask...feel free...I promise not to look. I mean, we're talking about a controlled, referee'd charity event. Surely, since you've been laughing so hard at the "air bath" thing that should be no big deal. Or, I guess, you might want to hide your "secret identity" a little more closely? Maybe you don't want to show up because someone might recognize you. I'd understand. So, still laughing "Billy"?I'm game if you are "Bill." So, you name the time, I got the place and there's a lot of kids out there that can benefit from you walking away with some charity money. You know what...just to kick things off...I'll pledge $200 of my own money. I mean, it's not a lot, but for a guy like you that should be pocket change.Think about it and give me a buzz. Can't wait to hear from you, Mr. Secretary. Remember, good causes deserve our best efforts...right?
6:46 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim,For someone who throws insults around as much as you do, its ironic that you are so sensitive to my jeering. I suggest you tone down the insults and now you want to throw punches!Sorry if you were offended by my "worse visual" comment, but it wasn't meant to poke fun at your physical condition. Even if you were a hunk, you've got to admit that you and I in a circle jerk is a worse visual image than either you or Ben Franklin taking an air bath.I accept your challenge, but a need some time to train, and for the weather to break because I suggest that we do this in the true Olympian tradition and in honour of air baths, naked. Between us we could probably get the permits to do so out at Sandy Hook. The potential money we could raise would be much greater if we did it this way, especially if you promoted the event in your paper.I'd be surprised if each member of the Middletown Township Committee didn't donate $1000 each. Peter Carton would probably donate $10,000. This could be a really unifying event. Fred Nieman, Bill Dowd and Vic Scudary would all be united behind us. Both Judy Stanley-Coleman and Jim Wassell would contribute. Judge Coleman could be the referee. I won't even wear a mask and I don't care if you look.Terry and Serena could take turns holding the cards between rounds, assuming we last beyond one round.You could have Director Bill be in your corner. I'll try to get Jennifer or Amy. I think I'd fight harder for Jen, but Amy would be more motivated to inspire me.Like you said, good causes deserve our best efforts, so if we are going to do this, lets make sure we raise as much as possible. If you accept my conditions I'll match your personal contribution 10-1 and you can choose which charities get the money.Give me a call. I'm closer than you think. One of your staff met me face to face this month. If you call me today I'll give $200 to Keansburg Pop Warner.
5:59 AM
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Being from the 19th century, I'm not sure how this blogging thing works, but I'll poke my way through and learn as I go. I'll start by republishing my dialog with Jim Purcell on Honest Abe's blog:
William H Seward said...
The Courier article about Abe was the best thing published in The Courier since Handlin challenged Uncle Joe. Last weeks Keansburg piece wasn't bad either, a good piece of journalism for a change on Jim's part.Hopefully the sting of the boss losing last spring is wearing off and Jim and Jackie will get back to publishing news instead of vendettas
Saturday, January 14, 2006 3:35:09 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
"Mr. Seward":I hear a good deal of derision about Courier's reporting. And, I keep hearing about how someone will sue us for this or sue us for that...and yet no one sues us. I hear about how we are one-sided and wrong and how we are on a "vendetta," but no ones disputes our facts with facts to counter. No, they counter facts presented through memos, ELEC reports and first-person interviews with party line babble. Now, sue me, make sense or present me with a fact regarding a specific story and I'll be more than happy to have a dialogue. But, if your contribution is more "blah, blah, blah I hate The Courier" then isn't that a shiny piece of nothing!I stopped being a Republican because slogans became more important than actions and the perceived importance of people in office became more important than their actions and the content of their character. While character cannot be charted, the former leaves a paper trail that we present. If you don't like what we present, then call your beloved brethren and tell them to stop doing shady things with the trust the people put into them.Joe out of politics or not, what happened is and that can't be taken away with a stream of nonsense.Start using your head. Do you think you look smarter just spewing venom with no substance? Or perhaps not.
Sunday, January 15, 2006 9:52:15 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim,I don't "hate The Courier." Quite the contrary, I often find it quite amusing. If not for The Courier I wouldn't have know about this Monmouth County blogging phenomena.Spewing out venom? Read my post again....I gave you two compliments and hoped for better work in the future, instead of more or the vendettas you have been publishing.If the only news one got about Monmouth County and Monmouth County politics in the last year was from "The Courier," one would think that the biggest scandal of the year was that Amy Handlin challenged Joe Azzolina and beat him.Your coverage of Monmouth County corruption was very disappointing, especially since you know many of the players better than anyone from the APP or the US Attorney's office.You called Tony Pulugi a "Rat," which implies that you disapprove of his cooperating with the authorities more than you disapprove of his corrupt activities. Did you ever meet Tony in a Go-Go bar while he was on the clock? If not, why not, and why didn't we read about it in The Courier?You gave no in-depth coverage to Ray O'Grady. Could that be because he was the lone Town Square supporter on the Middletown Township Committee?You were an apologist for Harry Larrison. I think it very unfortunate that Harry died before he could defend himself, and I think he could have mounted a strong defense by pointing the finger at Pulugi, but I don't think Harry was lilly white.You attacked Amy because she voted to hire and rehire Pulugi and because was paid to put up her campaign signs. Come on Jim, you know how the system worked back then and you never criticized it until Uncle Joe was challenged. Where was your criticism of Harry, Powers and Ted for hiring Pulugi? Why didn't you report how much Tony was paid in previous years campaigns to put up signs while on the county clock?Sue you? I don't have any standing to sue you. Neither does anyone one you may have actually slandered, because you really haven't done any damage, except to yourself and your publication.Lately there have been signs of actual journalism being published in The Courier. You have two inexperienced but bright and ambitious reporters working for you. Hopefully there will be more and better written journalism coming from The Courier going forward. There's a better chance of that happening if you start using your head!
Monday, January 16, 2006 10:38:33 AM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Dear "Mr. Seward":I give you credit for writing an intelligent post.I will say this of the following:You said..."Spewing out venom? Read my post again....I gave you two compliments and hoped for better work in the future, instead of more or the vendettas you have been publishing."I never believed in the nonsense that was going on but could not prove it until recently. When I could prove it, I became indignant, changed my affiliation (as I do not want to be affiliated with such corruption) and I printed it (about several members or the GOP and also some Democrats). You said:"If the only news one got about Monmouth County and Monmouth County politics in the last year was from "The Courier," one would think that the biggest scandal of the year was that Amy Handlin challenged Joe Azzolina and beat him."Challenging and winning is one thing. Challengingf, lying and being a hypocrite is another. It lacks dignity and is misleading to the public.You said:"Your coverage of Monmouth County corruption was very disappointing, especially since you know many of the players better than anyone from the APP or the US Attorney's office."I know some of these people socially and maybe worked on campaigns with a few, but had no idea of any nonsense. I had always been a volunteer in the GOP and didn't scalp the party or the public for money, pensions or benefits, nor tolerated anyone I was aware was doing such.You said:"You called Tony Pulugi a "Rat," which implies that you disapprove of his cooperating with the authorities more than you disapprove of his corrupt activities. Did you ever meet Tony in a Go-Go bar while he was on the clock? If not, why not, and why didn't we read about it in The Courier?"It is my strong belief that Mr. Palughi was critical to drawing very unsuspecting people, who were normal and otherwise lawful, into his weird little world of "The Sopranos." People are sometimes weak, not that I am prejudging anyone. Anyway, he then turned around and involved Harry, who was supposed to be "like his father." I knew Harry, I respected Harry and no one is ever going to tell me that Harry was a crook. I don't believe it, I won't believe it and it can't be proved because he was arrested weeks before he DIED! And, I believe Tony had something to do with it. "Lily white" no. Did I ever see anything wrong? No.You said:"You gave no in-depth coverage to Ray O'Grady. Could that be because he was the lone Town Square supporter on the Middletown Township Committee?"I have shown great discretion because of the gravity of this case with ALL of the defendants involved. I reported on the arrests and arraignments of good friends, in some cases, without bias. I simply chose not to judge them outside of a court.You said:"You attacked Amy because she voted to hire and rehire Pulugi and because was paid to put up her campaign signs. Come on Jim, you know how the system worked back then and you never criticized it until Uncle Joe was challenged. Where was your criticism of Harry, Powers and Ted for hiring Pulugi? Why didn't you report how much Tony was paid in previous years campaigns to put up signs while on the county clock?"I do not know who knew what. I think if there was a problem then Amy should have: 1. Noticed it before 15 years; 2. Tried to make corrections where needed and expose the poor decision-making of everyone if she must (INCLUSIVE of herself); and 3. NOT behaved as if she showed up to the Freeholders 10 minutes ago when she'd been there for almost 15 years. So, if everyone else was responsible...where was she?You said:"Sue you? I don't have any standing to sue you. Neither does anyone one you may have actually slandered, because you really haven't done any damage, except to yourself and your publication."This newspaper has won awards from the NAACP and Congress among others. Then-Gov. McGreevy used our work to make decisions about K'burg. Our stories have led to prosecutor's office investigations and have made the difference to voting publics around the Bayshore. But, then again, you know that and are simply trying to be unnecessarily derisive. So what? I get it all day...and we still do our job.Good day.
Monday, January 16, 2006 11:35:21 AM
William H Seward said...
jim purcell said:Dear "Mr. Seward":I give you credit for writing an intelligent post.Thanks Jim. Except for the non sequiturs, your wasn't bad either.
Monday, January 16, 2006 1:00:30 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim Purcell said:"But, then again, you know that and are simply trying to be unnecessarily derisive."Not at all Jim. How many awards have you won in the last six months? While I may be jeering you, I wouldn't call it unnecessary. You play an important role in our community, and you've been off your game for quite a while now.Jim said:"I stopped being a Republican because slogans became more important than actions and the perceived importance of people in office became more important than their actions and the content of their character."And you think the Democrats are any different? Where will you go when you get fed up with them? The Green party perhaps?I am at least as frustrated with the state of affairs in our "Republican" county as you are, but I don't think for a minute that that is why you left.I think you left the Republican party because you lost you voice and influence. Your own blog indicates to me that you are trying to gain and voice and influence with the Democrats. Good luck.
Monday, January 16, 2006 7:27:59 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Dear "Mr. Seward":I was a Republican because I understand what "Republican" means. It is not an Athenian term, it is Spartan, with very finite parameters. It was modified during our Revolution and the "Age of Enlightenment" (ala Jean Jaques Rosseaau) by very capable people. Perhaps you have no idea of what I'm speaking of.If you do not then that is fine. Ignorance is a bliss. Otherwise, you should be disturbed. A "republic" has a definite meaning. Religious fanaticism and political patronage runs against such ideology. Both are, in fact, disgusting.If you are so fluent with GOP politics...then how can you possibly be derisive? I have carried my load...and others...for quite some time. If I choose not to sell out my friends, be they living or dead, if they are not guilty to my knowledge, then how is that so bad? Oh, I forgot, this is the party of political expedience these days. My friend, Harry Larrison, who never gave me a dime, died and, apparently, for the sake of a few petty politicos, I am supposed to tell him and some of my friends to "go screw," despite my belief in the justice system. Yes, how awful! The GOP I knew was more enlightened. We KNEW things before we said them, and policed our own where we saw wrongdoing. Wow! There's a concept! Can you believe people once policed themselves without public intervention!? Impossible!Republicanism has nothing to do with profit. I left because it became that way, and you and your friends are protecting people who have blatantly corrupted the whole idea of "Republicanism." And, you defend it. Should I encounter this in the Democratic Party I will do the same. However, those who know me also know I have never deviated from a dogma that is far older than either you or I. With things being what they are today, I suppose that doesn't mean very much...does it?Say whatever you want. I have done what I believe is right throughout this nonsense...without selling out my friends or doing what I believed was wrong. I suppose you can say as much? If you can, you didn't know Mr. Niemann too well, I suppose.Unfortunately, I did. I wish you much luck in your idealism.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 12:56:27 AM
William H Seward said...
Jim,Your hero Rosseaau was a very interesting but troubled fellow, much like yourself.You are right, I am no expert on Rosseaau, but here is what a little googling taught me about him:As a brilliant, undisciplined, and unconventional thinker, Jean-Jacques Rousseau spent most of his life being driven by controversy back and forth between Paris and his native Geneva. Orphaned at an early age, he left home at sixteen, working as a tutor and musician before undertaking a literary career while in his forties. Rousseau sired but refused to support several illegitimate children and frequently initiated bitter quarrels with even the most supportive of his colleagues. (http://www.philosophypages.com/ph/rous.htm)Rousseau was one of the first modern writers to seriously attack the institution of private property, and therefore is considered a forebear of modern socialism and Communism. Rousseau also questioned the assumption that the will of the majority is always correct. He argued that the goal of government should be to secure freedom, equality, and justice for all within the state, regardless of the will of the majority.(http://www2.lucidcafe.com/lucidcafe/library/96jun/rousseau.html)I share your distain for religious fanaticism and poltical patronage, but they are not "in fact" "disgusting." Facts are objective. "Disgusting" is a subjective description of those phenomina. To insist that ones point of view is "factual" is, well, fanatical.You asked: If you are so fluent with GOP politics...then how can you possibly be derisive?My jeering is aimed more at your journalism than your politics. I think your politics,and as you admit, your friendships, have clouded your view of the facts and your reporting has become pontificating.You continued:" If I choose not to sell out my friends, be they living or dead, if they are not guilty to my knowledge, then how is that so bad? "Can I assume your coverage of the Matawan/Aberdeen train station would have been different if Joe Kryillos and Rob Clifton were your friends? Maybe they got the coverage they got because you think they screwed friends of yours. Go back and read what your hero Rosseaau said about competition and cooperation. Neither Joe or Rob have been accused of crimes,unlike some of your friends, yet you gave their actions much more negative ink than those who have been accused of crimes.You make the excuse that you're not aware of any wrong doing on the part of your friends. Well how about some investigative reporting?! And by investigative, I don't mean reading election reports on the internet. You've got three "monkeys" to do some digging, put them to work! And don't stop digging when you've got a whole big enough to fit your head in.You keep bringing up Harry, may he rest in peace. And you pontificate about political expedience and profits. Well here's a question to investigate: Where was Harry's company getting its trucks serviced? I wonder if there are any dots to connect.You said:"I knew Harry, I respected Harry and no one is ever going to tell me that Harry was a crook. I don't believe it, I won't believe it and it can't be proved because he was arrested weeks before he DIED!"You also said:"Ignorance is a bliss."Let's find out if you're a good friend or a good journalist. Maybe you could be both without corrupting your mission, but that will probably depend on where the facts lead you.You talk about "self policing." Some might call that "cover up." I guess it depends on your point of view.Oh, and by the way, Mr. Neiman is not a friend of mine.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 9:06:36 AM
Jackie Corley said...
Re: Operation Bid RigI think, in some respect, all the area's newspapers failed in not uncovering the level of corruption that was/is rampant in the area before the arrests came down. Newspapers and journalists have an obligation to be servants to their public. We all should have known what was happening in our towns before the FBI had to come in.That said, those arrested will have their day in court. To continue to go after them in print is a tad after-the-fact and merely ripping off the FBI's thunder, not to mention an excuse for not uncovering what allegedly happened BEFORE it happened.If The Courier had discovered any wrongdoing on the part of those arrested BEFORE they were arrested, we would have gone after that full throttle, whether Purcell or anyone else at the paper was friends with them or not. I have no doubt in my mind about that.The circumstances surrounding the Aberdeen-Matawan Train Station have not been investigated by authorities, and it has been Purcell's contention, as well as APP columnist Art Kamin's, that it should be.And, whether the train station issue is investigated by authorities or not, it is any journalist's obligation to bring the documentation and the facts surrounding the issue to the public's attention.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 10:45:02 AM
William H Seward said...
jackie said:"I think, in some respect, all the area's newspapers failed in not uncovering the level of corruption that was/is rampant in the area before the arrests came down. Newspapers and journalists have an obligation to be servants to their public. We all should have known what was happening in our towns before the FBI had to come in."Well said Jackiejackie said:"That said, those arrested will have their day in court. To continue to go after them in print is a tad after-the-fact and merely ripping off the FBI's thunder, not to mention an excuse for not uncovering what allegedly happened BEFORE it happened."I'm not sure I understand what you mean by "not to mention an excuse for not uncovering what allegedly happened BEFORE it happened."jackie said:"If The Courier had discovered any wrongdoing on the part of those arrested BEFORE they were arrested, we would have gone after that full throttle, whether Purcell or anyone else at the paper was friends with them or not. I have no doubt in my mind about that."You might want to rethink that Jackie in light of Jim's comments about "self policing"jackie said:"The circumstances surrounding the Aberdeen-Matawan Train Station have not been investigated by authorities"How do you know?jackie said:"And, whether the train station issue is investigated by authorities or not, it is any journalist's obligation to bring the documentation and the facts surrounding the issue to the public's attention. "That and many other issues. Keep raising the bar Jackie!I wonder if anyone other than The Courier staff, Abe and I are reading any of this.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 11:04:56 AM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Mr. Seward:By "self policing," I meant that if a member of the GOP were to find wrongdoing at its beginning, then they should report it and not cover it up. In this way, the party would be credible and clean.In contrast, what is not "self policing" is allowing criminality to take root and do nothing."Self policing" is also creating an environment where corruption is not tolerated and where "deals" are not cultivated through the party via its ELEC accounts.As for Mr. Rosseau, he tried to get rid of a monarchy form of government on Corsica (France). Probably, a good idea if you were a Corsican taxpayer to a basically corrupt government. As with anyone's ideas, you take what is good and leave what you don't like at the door.Take Mr. Franklin, I like the idea of electricity, but air baths are probably not something I'm going to do anytime soon.As for the train station, I'll call Mike but I'm sure Jackie will be more than happy to post.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 4:38:52 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Dear Mr. Seward:Truth is simple and lying big is hard. The train station story is simple. It follows a path of documents and interviews. They are either real or not: In fact, they are real.You want to go off into the Neverland of tangents. Well, I'm not in your classroom and not inclined to discuss everything under the sun on some message board.So, there it is. As for your insight, I think it's lacking (as are your command of facts and critical thinking). You play semantical games from points out of context and throw them around. Frankly, I think it's petty nonsense, as are many of your statements. So, we're done.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 5:13:25 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim said:"The train station story is simple. It follows a path of documents and interviews. They are either real or not: In fact, they are real."I never questioned your facts. I questioned your motives for "investigating" that story and giving it the amount of ink you did, while giving very little ink to stories involving your friends.Jim said:"You want to go off into the Neverland of tangents."No I don't, I just want better journalism from you.Jim:"Well, I'm not in your classroom and not inclined to discuss everything under the sun on some message board."I don't have a classroom, and you're evidently not inclined to discuss much of the substance of the issues I raise, which is not unexpected.Jim said:"As for your insight, I think it's lacking (as are your command of facts and critical thinking)."I guess I had a bad day...yesterday I got credit for an intelligent post! And it was in yesterdays post that I asserted any facts. Today I raised questions and expressed opinions.Jim said:"You play semantical games from points out of context and throw them around."se·man·tics ( P ) Pronunciation Key (s-mntks)n. (used with a sing. or pl. verb) Linguistics. The study or science of meaning in language. Isn't that what we're here for?I did take your "Ignorance is bliss" quote out of context, but after all, it was a shot you took at me, without basis. You basically agrued that you were ignorant of your friends' wrong doings and said you wanted to stay that way...thus my head in the sand reference, which may have been petty, but it was clever and it fit.Jim said:"So, we're done."You mean you will let me have the last word?
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 7:31:32 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
At my newspaper, I do not influence my reporters' views and I do not tell them what to write or not write, nor does anyone else. I write as I see fit and publiosh it. The GOP has its own house organs in the area, and I do not discount them simply because of their ownership and orientation. Their newspapers have a perspective, whether they want to admit it or not. I'm not "outing" any publications in particular, because that lacks dignity.Similarly, just because I treat something editorially in one way does not mean that I ever want to steer a reporter my way insofar as slanting a story. Matt and Jackie can readily affirm this, as could Doug or anyone else who has ever worked for me.Yet, to ignore something editorially simply because I know of it first-hand is ridiculous. I have written extensively about John Merla and the rest of the people I knew and didn't know regarding the FBI stuff. Of course, there have been news reports in my paper about this (more than most I believe), but there have also been editorials I wrote urging people not to rush to judgment until John's case has been heard. Others who are pleading out will be treated editorially in an appropriate way when news is announced. I credit John with standing up and fighting his fight because I do believe he is innocent, until a judge says otherwise in a verdict. But, he is standing up.In Middletown, Pat Parkinson's case was never heard because neither he nor his lawyers (paid for by the township) wanted it heard. They settled. So, I speculated. Before that, when the case was filed, Mr. Parkinson wasn't truthful with my newspaper when he said the case didn't exist (during October of an election year). So, I shouldn't allow for this editorially? I don't think so.As for Lisa's comment...very adult. I'm glad you're so insightful.When it comes to one's rights...even a journalist's ...I never signed anything saying I would not participate in the county where I pay taxes (away from work), nor the town where I pay taxes. I will not become deaf, dumb and blind because I am in publishing.In Mr. Seward's township, where he holds office, the media is supposed to fetch and step for the committee, to which Mr. Seward belongs. But, that is just not the way it works. I do not influence news. I show reporters how to write it and let them do their jobs.I am disappointed by the idea that there is so much derision and pettiness, not to mention outright immaturity, in some posts. I like Abe. But, this is my last post here. Frankly, I hate to say that Mr. Seward and company have lived up to my expectations.Have a good meeting tonight, "Mr. Secretary."And Mike, I called you...ball's in your court. But, you're riding a dog of an issue, in my opinion. FInally, as for my role in the Dem Party. Well, I'm just looking to do the best I can participating in the system. Bipartisanship is what America is all about. I've never been a candidate for office and daresay I don't have the voracious ego of a "Mr. Seward" to stomach it.Goodnight and goodbye, my best. Abe: I'd appreciate you wiping out the personal derision above regarding me. It lacks dignity in my opinion. I certainly never spoke to anyone on this site in that way.Besides, if I wanted to hear anymore sophomoric critics, I could just open some of my mail at work. : )
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 7:20:47 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim said:"In Mr. Seward's township, where he holds office, the media is supposed to fetch and step for the committee, to which Mr. Seward belongs. But, that is just not the way it works. I do not influence news. I show reporters how to write it and let them do their jobs." and:"Have a good meeting tonight, "Mr. Secretary." "Well Jim, as you can tell by the time of this post, I am not at a meeting tonight and your investigative skills and/or guess work have failed you. I am not an elected official, and probably not from the town you think I'm from.I'm sorry to see you go, and I hope you will reconsider. After all, this thread started as an acknowledgment or your fine editorial last week.As for your opinions that I am sophmoric, immature, derisive and petty, well, we obviously disagree, for the most part (I've admitted to my jeering), but I respect your right to those opnions and your right to express them.So, if I am not who you think I am, who am I? I am one of your readers. A politically active reader, obviously, who has been very disappointed with the quality of your work lately.I'm been wanting to engage you in a dialog, and I'm grateful for the oppourtunity that "Abe" gave us. I'm grateful that you took the bait...I didn't think you would. I'm sorry to see it end so soon, if it does, but I said most of what I had to say to you, regarding the matters at hand, and I've learned a few things. I hope you have too.BillPS...in honour of what happened in Trenton today, I should mention that I was also a Govenor
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 8:21:03 PM
William H Seward said...
The Courier article about Abe was the best thing published in The Courier since Handlin challenged Uncle Joe. Last weeks Keansburg piece wasn't bad either, a good piece of journalism for a change on Jim's part.Hopefully the sting of the boss losing last spring is wearing off and Jim and Jackie will get back to publishing news instead of vendettas
Saturday, January 14, 2006 3:35:09 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
"Mr. Seward":I hear a good deal of derision about Courier's reporting. And, I keep hearing about how someone will sue us for this or sue us for that...and yet no one sues us. I hear about how we are one-sided and wrong and how we are on a "vendetta," but no ones disputes our facts with facts to counter. No, they counter facts presented through memos, ELEC reports and first-person interviews with party line babble. Now, sue me, make sense or present me with a fact regarding a specific story and I'll be more than happy to have a dialogue. But, if your contribution is more "blah, blah, blah I hate The Courier" then isn't that a shiny piece of nothing!I stopped being a Republican because slogans became more important than actions and the perceived importance of people in office became more important than their actions and the content of their character. While character cannot be charted, the former leaves a paper trail that we present. If you don't like what we present, then call your beloved brethren and tell them to stop doing shady things with the trust the people put into them.Joe out of politics or not, what happened is and that can't be taken away with a stream of nonsense.Start using your head. Do you think you look smarter just spewing venom with no substance? Or perhaps not.
Sunday, January 15, 2006 9:52:15 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim,I don't "hate The Courier." Quite the contrary, I often find it quite amusing. If not for The Courier I wouldn't have know about this Monmouth County blogging phenomena.Spewing out venom? Read my post again....I gave you two compliments and hoped for better work in the future, instead of more or the vendettas you have been publishing.If the only news one got about Monmouth County and Monmouth County politics in the last year was from "The Courier," one would think that the biggest scandal of the year was that Amy Handlin challenged Joe Azzolina and beat him.Your coverage of Monmouth County corruption was very disappointing, especially since you know many of the players better than anyone from the APP or the US Attorney's office.You called Tony Pulugi a "Rat," which implies that you disapprove of his cooperating with the authorities more than you disapprove of his corrupt activities. Did you ever meet Tony in a Go-Go bar while he was on the clock? If not, why not, and why didn't we read about it in The Courier?You gave no in-depth coverage to Ray O'Grady. Could that be because he was the lone Town Square supporter on the Middletown Township Committee?You were an apologist for Harry Larrison. I think it very unfortunate that Harry died before he could defend himself, and I think he could have mounted a strong defense by pointing the finger at Pulugi, but I don't think Harry was lilly white.You attacked Amy because she voted to hire and rehire Pulugi and because was paid to put up her campaign signs. Come on Jim, you know how the system worked back then and you never criticized it until Uncle Joe was challenged. Where was your criticism of Harry, Powers and Ted for hiring Pulugi? Why didn't you report how much Tony was paid in previous years campaigns to put up signs while on the county clock?Sue you? I don't have any standing to sue you. Neither does anyone one you may have actually slandered, because you really haven't done any damage, except to yourself and your publication.Lately there have been signs of actual journalism being published in The Courier. You have two inexperienced but bright and ambitious reporters working for you. Hopefully there will be more and better written journalism coming from The Courier going forward. There's a better chance of that happening if you start using your head!
Monday, January 16, 2006 10:38:33 AM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Dear "Mr. Seward":I give you credit for writing an intelligent post.I will say this of the following:You said..."Spewing out venom? Read my post again....I gave you two compliments and hoped for better work in the future, instead of more or the vendettas you have been publishing."I never believed in the nonsense that was going on but could not prove it until recently. When I could prove it, I became indignant, changed my affiliation (as I do not want to be affiliated with such corruption) and I printed it (about several members or the GOP and also some Democrats). You said:"If the only news one got about Monmouth County and Monmouth County politics in the last year was from "The Courier," one would think that the biggest scandal of the year was that Amy Handlin challenged Joe Azzolina and beat him."Challenging and winning is one thing. Challengingf, lying and being a hypocrite is another. It lacks dignity and is misleading to the public.You said:"Your coverage of Monmouth County corruption was very disappointing, especially since you know many of the players better than anyone from the APP or the US Attorney's office."I know some of these people socially and maybe worked on campaigns with a few, but had no idea of any nonsense. I had always been a volunteer in the GOP and didn't scalp the party or the public for money, pensions or benefits, nor tolerated anyone I was aware was doing such.You said:"You called Tony Pulugi a "Rat," which implies that you disapprove of his cooperating with the authorities more than you disapprove of his corrupt activities. Did you ever meet Tony in a Go-Go bar while he was on the clock? If not, why not, and why didn't we read about it in The Courier?"It is my strong belief that Mr. Palughi was critical to drawing very unsuspecting people, who were normal and otherwise lawful, into his weird little world of "The Sopranos." People are sometimes weak, not that I am prejudging anyone. Anyway, he then turned around and involved Harry, who was supposed to be "like his father." I knew Harry, I respected Harry and no one is ever going to tell me that Harry was a crook. I don't believe it, I won't believe it and it can't be proved because he was arrested weeks before he DIED! And, I believe Tony had something to do with it. "Lily white" no. Did I ever see anything wrong? No.You said:"You gave no in-depth coverage to Ray O'Grady. Could that be because he was the lone Town Square supporter on the Middletown Township Committee?"I have shown great discretion because of the gravity of this case with ALL of the defendants involved. I reported on the arrests and arraignments of good friends, in some cases, without bias. I simply chose not to judge them outside of a court.You said:"You attacked Amy because she voted to hire and rehire Pulugi and because was paid to put up her campaign signs. Come on Jim, you know how the system worked back then and you never criticized it until Uncle Joe was challenged. Where was your criticism of Harry, Powers and Ted for hiring Pulugi? Why didn't you report how much Tony was paid in previous years campaigns to put up signs while on the county clock?"I do not know who knew what. I think if there was a problem then Amy should have: 1. Noticed it before 15 years; 2. Tried to make corrections where needed and expose the poor decision-making of everyone if she must (INCLUSIVE of herself); and 3. NOT behaved as if she showed up to the Freeholders 10 minutes ago when she'd been there for almost 15 years. So, if everyone else was responsible...where was she?You said:"Sue you? I don't have any standing to sue you. Neither does anyone one you may have actually slandered, because you really haven't done any damage, except to yourself and your publication."This newspaper has won awards from the NAACP and Congress among others. Then-Gov. McGreevy used our work to make decisions about K'burg. Our stories have led to prosecutor's office investigations and have made the difference to voting publics around the Bayshore. But, then again, you know that and are simply trying to be unnecessarily derisive. So what? I get it all day...and we still do our job.Good day.
Monday, January 16, 2006 11:35:21 AM
William H Seward said...
jim purcell said:Dear "Mr. Seward":I give you credit for writing an intelligent post.Thanks Jim. Except for the non sequiturs, your wasn't bad either.
Monday, January 16, 2006 1:00:30 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim Purcell said:"But, then again, you know that and are simply trying to be unnecessarily derisive."Not at all Jim. How many awards have you won in the last six months? While I may be jeering you, I wouldn't call it unnecessary. You play an important role in our community, and you've been off your game for quite a while now.Jim said:"I stopped being a Republican because slogans became more important than actions and the perceived importance of people in office became more important than their actions and the content of their character."And you think the Democrats are any different? Where will you go when you get fed up with them? The Green party perhaps?I am at least as frustrated with the state of affairs in our "Republican" county as you are, but I don't think for a minute that that is why you left.I think you left the Republican party because you lost you voice and influence. Your own blog indicates to me that you are trying to gain and voice and influence with the Democrats. Good luck.
Monday, January 16, 2006 7:27:59 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Dear "Mr. Seward":I was a Republican because I understand what "Republican" means. It is not an Athenian term, it is Spartan, with very finite parameters. It was modified during our Revolution and the "Age of Enlightenment" (ala Jean Jaques Rosseaau) by very capable people. Perhaps you have no idea of what I'm speaking of.If you do not then that is fine. Ignorance is a bliss. Otherwise, you should be disturbed. A "republic" has a definite meaning. Religious fanaticism and political patronage runs against such ideology. Both are, in fact, disgusting.If you are so fluent with GOP politics...then how can you possibly be derisive? I have carried my load...and others...for quite some time. If I choose not to sell out my friends, be they living or dead, if they are not guilty to my knowledge, then how is that so bad? Oh, I forgot, this is the party of political expedience these days. My friend, Harry Larrison, who never gave me a dime, died and, apparently, for the sake of a few petty politicos, I am supposed to tell him and some of my friends to "go screw," despite my belief in the justice system. Yes, how awful! The GOP I knew was more enlightened. We KNEW things before we said them, and policed our own where we saw wrongdoing. Wow! There's a concept! Can you believe people once policed themselves without public intervention!? Impossible!Republicanism has nothing to do with profit. I left because it became that way, and you and your friends are protecting people who have blatantly corrupted the whole idea of "Republicanism." And, you defend it. Should I encounter this in the Democratic Party I will do the same. However, those who know me also know I have never deviated from a dogma that is far older than either you or I. With things being what they are today, I suppose that doesn't mean very much...does it?Say whatever you want. I have done what I believe is right throughout this nonsense...without selling out my friends or doing what I believed was wrong. I suppose you can say as much? If you can, you didn't know Mr. Niemann too well, I suppose.Unfortunately, I did. I wish you much luck in your idealism.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 12:56:27 AM
William H Seward said...
Jim,Your hero Rosseaau was a very interesting but troubled fellow, much like yourself.You are right, I am no expert on Rosseaau, but here is what a little googling taught me about him:As a brilliant, undisciplined, and unconventional thinker, Jean-Jacques Rousseau spent most of his life being driven by controversy back and forth between Paris and his native Geneva. Orphaned at an early age, he left home at sixteen, working as a tutor and musician before undertaking a literary career while in his forties. Rousseau sired but refused to support several illegitimate children and frequently initiated bitter quarrels with even the most supportive of his colleagues. (http://www.philosophypages.com/ph/rous.htm)Rousseau was one of the first modern writers to seriously attack the institution of private property, and therefore is considered a forebear of modern socialism and Communism. Rousseau also questioned the assumption that the will of the majority is always correct. He argued that the goal of government should be to secure freedom, equality, and justice for all within the state, regardless of the will of the majority.(http://www2.lucidcafe.com/lucidcafe/library/96jun/rousseau.html)I share your distain for religious fanaticism and poltical patronage, but they are not "in fact" "disgusting." Facts are objective. "Disgusting" is a subjective description of those phenomina. To insist that ones point of view is "factual" is, well, fanatical.You asked: If you are so fluent with GOP politics...then how can you possibly be derisive?My jeering is aimed more at your journalism than your politics. I think your politics,and as you admit, your friendships, have clouded your view of the facts and your reporting has become pontificating.You continued:" If I choose not to sell out my friends, be they living or dead, if they are not guilty to my knowledge, then how is that so bad? "Can I assume your coverage of the Matawan/Aberdeen train station would have been different if Joe Kryillos and Rob Clifton were your friends? Maybe they got the coverage they got because you think they screwed friends of yours. Go back and read what your hero Rosseaau said about competition and cooperation. Neither Joe or Rob have been accused of crimes,unlike some of your friends, yet you gave their actions much more negative ink than those who have been accused of crimes.You make the excuse that you're not aware of any wrong doing on the part of your friends. Well how about some investigative reporting?! And by investigative, I don't mean reading election reports on the internet. You've got three "monkeys" to do some digging, put them to work! And don't stop digging when you've got a whole big enough to fit your head in.You keep bringing up Harry, may he rest in peace. And you pontificate about political expedience and profits. Well here's a question to investigate: Where was Harry's company getting its trucks serviced? I wonder if there are any dots to connect.You said:"I knew Harry, I respected Harry and no one is ever going to tell me that Harry was a crook. I don't believe it, I won't believe it and it can't be proved because he was arrested weeks before he DIED!"You also said:"Ignorance is a bliss."Let's find out if you're a good friend or a good journalist. Maybe you could be both without corrupting your mission, but that will probably depend on where the facts lead you.You talk about "self policing." Some might call that "cover up." I guess it depends on your point of view.Oh, and by the way, Mr. Neiman is not a friend of mine.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 9:06:36 AM
Jackie Corley said...
Re: Operation Bid RigI think, in some respect, all the area's newspapers failed in not uncovering the level of corruption that was/is rampant in the area before the arrests came down. Newspapers and journalists have an obligation to be servants to their public. We all should have known what was happening in our towns before the FBI had to come in.That said, those arrested will have their day in court. To continue to go after them in print is a tad after-the-fact and merely ripping off the FBI's thunder, not to mention an excuse for not uncovering what allegedly happened BEFORE it happened.If The Courier had discovered any wrongdoing on the part of those arrested BEFORE they were arrested, we would have gone after that full throttle, whether Purcell or anyone else at the paper was friends with them or not. I have no doubt in my mind about that.The circumstances surrounding the Aberdeen-Matawan Train Station have not been investigated by authorities, and it has been Purcell's contention, as well as APP columnist Art Kamin's, that it should be.And, whether the train station issue is investigated by authorities or not, it is any journalist's obligation to bring the documentation and the facts surrounding the issue to the public's attention.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 10:45:02 AM
William H Seward said...
jackie said:"I think, in some respect, all the area's newspapers failed in not uncovering the level of corruption that was/is rampant in the area before the arrests came down. Newspapers and journalists have an obligation to be servants to their public. We all should have known what was happening in our towns before the FBI had to come in."Well said Jackiejackie said:"That said, those arrested will have their day in court. To continue to go after them in print is a tad after-the-fact and merely ripping off the FBI's thunder, not to mention an excuse for not uncovering what allegedly happened BEFORE it happened."I'm not sure I understand what you mean by "not to mention an excuse for not uncovering what allegedly happened BEFORE it happened."jackie said:"If The Courier had discovered any wrongdoing on the part of those arrested BEFORE they were arrested, we would have gone after that full throttle, whether Purcell or anyone else at the paper was friends with them or not. I have no doubt in my mind about that."You might want to rethink that Jackie in light of Jim's comments about "self policing"jackie said:"The circumstances surrounding the Aberdeen-Matawan Train Station have not been investigated by authorities"How do you know?jackie said:"And, whether the train station issue is investigated by authorities or not, it is any journalist's obligation to bring the documentation and the facts surrounding the issue to the public's attention. "That and many other issues. Keep raising the bar Jackie!I wonder if anyone other than The Courier staff, Abe and I are reading any of this.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 11:04:56 AM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Mr. Seward:By "self policing," I meant that if a member of the GOP were to find wrongdoing at its beginning, then they should report it and not cover it up. In this way, the party would be credible and clean.In contrast, what is not "self policing" is allowing criminality to take root and do nothing."Self policing" is also creating an environment where corruption is not tolerated and where "deals" are not cultivated through the party via its ELEC accounts.As for Mr. Rosseau, he tried to get rid of a monarchy form of government on Corsica (France). Probably, a good idea if you were a Corsican taxpayer to a basically corrupt government. As with anyone's ideas, you take what is good and leave what you don't like at the door.Take Mr. Franklin, I like the idea of electricity, but air baths are probably not something I'm going to do anytime soon.As for the train station, I'll call Mike but I'm sure Jackie will be more than happy to post.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 4:38:52 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
Dear Mr. Seward:Truth is simple and lying big is hard. The train station story is simple. It follows a path of documents and interviews. They are either real or not: In fact, they are real.You want to go off into the Neverland of tangents. Well, I'm not in your classroom and not inclined to discuss everything under the sun on some message board.So, there it is. As for your insight, I think it's lacking (as are your command of facts and critical thinking). You play semantical games from points out of context and throw them around. Frankly, I think it's petty nonsense, as are many of your statements. So, we're done.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 5:13:25 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim said:"The train station story is simple. It follows a path of documents and interviews. They are either real or not: In fact, they are real."I never questioned your facts. I questioned your motives for "investigating" that story and giving it the amount of ink you did, while giving very little ink to stories involving your friends.Jim said:"You want to go off into the Neverland of tangents."No I don't, I just want better journalism from you.Jim:"Well, I'm not in your classroom and not inclined to discuss everything under the sun on some message board."I don't have a classroom, and you're evidently not inclined to discuss much of the substance of the issues I raise, which is not unexpected.Jim said:"As for your insight, I think it's lacking (as are your command of facts and critical thinking)."I guess I had a bad day...yesterday I got credit for an intelligent post! And it was in yesterdays post that I asserted any facts. Today I raised questions and expressed opinions.Jim said:"You play semantical games from points out of context and throw them around."se·man·tics ( P ) Pronunciation Key (s-mntks)n. (used with a sing. or pl. verb) Linguistics. The study or science of meaning in language. Isn't that what we're here for?I did take your "Ignorance is bliss" quote out of context, but after all, it was a shot you took at me, without basis. You basically agrued that you were ignorant of your friends' wrong doings and said you wanted to stay that way...thus my head in the sand reference, which may have been petty, but it was clever and it fit.Jim said:"So, we're done."You mean you will let me have the last word?
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 7:31:32 PM
JIM_PURCELL said...
At my newspaper, I do not influence my reporters' views and I do not tell them what to write or not write, nor does anyone else. I write as I see fit and publiosh it. The GOP has its own house organs in the area, and I do not discount them simply because of their ownership and orientation. Their newspapers have a perspective, whether they want to admit it or not. I'm not "outing" any publications in particular, because that lacks dignity.Similarly, just because I treat something editorially in one way does not mean that I ever want to steer a reporter my way insofar as slanting a story. Matt and Jackie can readily affirm this, as could Doug or anyone else who has ever worked for me.Yet, to ignore something editorially simply because I know of it first-hand is ridiculous. I have written extensively about John Merla and the rest of the people I knew and didn't know regarding the FBI stuff. Of course, there have been news reports in my paper about this (more than most I believe), but there have also been editorials I wrote urging people not to rush to judgment until John's case has been heard. Others who are pleading out will be treated editorially in an appropriate way when news is announced. I credit John with standing up and fighting his fight because I do believe he is innocent, until a judge says otherwise in a verdict. But, he is standing up.In Middletown, Pat Parkinson's case was never heard because neither he nor his lawyers (paid for by the township) wanted it heard. They settled. So, I speculated. Before that, when the case was filed, Mr. Parkinson wasn't truthful with my newspaper when he said the case didn't exist (during October of an election year). So, I shouldn't allow for this editorially? I don't think so.As for Lisa's comment...very adult. I'm glad you're so insightful.When it comes to one's rights...even a journalist's ...I never signed anything saying I would not participate in the county where I pay taxes (away from work), nor the town where I pay taxes. I will not become deaf, dumb and blind because I am in publishing.In Mr. Seward's township, where he holds office, the media is supposed to fetch and step for the committee, to which Mr. Seward belongs. But, that is just not the way it works. I do not influence news. I show reporters how to write it and let them do their jobs.I am disappointed by the idea that there is so much derision and pettiness, not to mention outright immaturity, in some posts. I like Abe. But, this is my last post here. Frankly, I hate to say that Mr. Seward and company have lived up to my expectations.Have a good meeting tonight, "Mr. Secretary."And Mike, I called you...ball's in your court. But, you're riding a dog of an issue, in my opinion. FInally, as for my role in the Dem Party. Well, I'm just looking to do the best I can participating in the system. Bipartisanship is what America is all about. I've never been a candidate for office and daresay I don't have the voracious ego of a "Mr. Seward" to stomach it.Goodnight and goodbye, my best. Abe: I'd appreciate you wiping out the personal derision above regarding me. It lacks dignity in my opinion. I certainly never spoke to anyone on this site in that way.Besides, if I wanted to hear anymore sophomoric critics, I could just open some of my mail at work. : )
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 7:20:47 PM
William H Seward said...
Jim said:"In Mr. Seward's township, where he holds office, the media is supposed to fetch and step for the committee, to which Mr. Seward belongs. But, that is just not the way it works. I do not influence news. I show reporters how to write it and let them do their jobs." and:"Have a good meeting tonight, "Mr. Secretary." "Well Jim, as you can tell by the time of this post, I am not at a meeting tonight and your investigative skills and/or guess work have failed you. I am not an elected official, and probably not from the town you think I'm from.I'm sorry to see you go, and I hope you will reconsider. After all, this thread started as an acknowledgment or your fine editorial last week.As for your opinions that I am sophmoric, immature, derisive and petty, well, we obviously disagree, for the most part (I've admitted to my jeering), but I respect your right to those opnions and your right to express them.So, if I am not who you think I am, who am I? I am one of your readers. A politically active reader, obviously, who has been very disappointed with the quality of your work lately.I'm been wanting to engage you in a dialog, and I'm grateful for the oppourtunity that "Abe" gave us. I'm grateful that you took the bait...I didn't think you would. I'm sorry to see it end so soon, if it does, but I said most of what I had to say to you, regarding the matters at hand, and I've learned a few things. I hope you have too.BillPS...in honour of what happened in Trenton today, I should mention that I was also a Govenor
Tuesday, January 17, 2006 8:21:03 PM
Saturday, January 14, 2006
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