Democrat slate best for Red Bank

The combination of autumn's palette of reds, oranges, golds, browns and its soothing zephyrs can easily inebriate its spectators, especially the residents of Red Bank who can view fall in all its glory from the shores of the Navesink. However, the residents of Red Bank must not forget that the political landscape also deserves their utmost attention this fall.

The hue and cry from the GOP and their apologists is relentless, and must be carefully scrutinized. I was amused to read a letter from a Ms. Jahnig about Mr. John Curley "protecting" Red Bank from the now suspended Red Bank Recycling Transfer station. Ms. Jahnig does not mention it was Mr. Curley who voted two times as a Board of Adjustment member to expand the operations at Red Bank Recycling, which set the stage for the application to designate the area as a transfer station. Mr. Curley then blindly approved the expansion to benefit one wealthy businessman. Rather than "just saying no," he voted yes to expand the business sin the area.

It was Councilman Pasquale Menna who introduced the denial resolution on the zoning change and pressed for the resolution to oppose the application with the reasons for denial. More importantly, as soon as the project reared its head, it was Mr. Menna who used his personal friendship with Congressman Frank Pallone and Congressman Bill Pascrell to secure their help to stop the preemption issue in Washington, which would have robbed us of all authority over the proposal.

As a matter of fact, both Congressman Pallone and Congressman Pascrell came to Red Bank to be with Mr. Menna at his first campaign event to express their solidarity with him and pledge their support in Washington on this issue. His efforts paid off instantly in Washington with federal action and the application was then withdrawn. The GOP frequently attempts to distract Red Bank residents from Menna's intelligent and effective leadership.

The GOP has orchestrated its campaign in an effort to impugn Mayor Edward McKenna who has dedicated nearly two decades and thousands of hours to this town. For instance, at the last Council meeting, the mayor was accused of wasting tax money on salary for the head of the Red Bank Visitor Center. Mr. Curley lowered his head, perhaps realizing that what was supposed to be a symphony of assaults was about to become a cacophony for the GOP. Mayor McKenna gently corrected his criticizer and informed him no tax dollars were spent on that position.

As a resident with an investment in this town for me and my family, I want a mayor who can draw on his diplomatic networking ability to protect my community. That's why I know Councilman Pasquale Menna is the best person for mayor of Red Bank, and I support him and his running mates, Councilman Art Murphy and Michael DuPont.

We cannot be persuaded by the cajoling of Mr. Curley and those who jawbone on his behalf in letters and accusations which are far from accurate. From street fairs and craft shows to haute couture, Red Bank has too many offerings to enumerate. Red Bank is my Shangri-la, and I know it is yours too. Therefore, the residents of Red Bank must galvanize their efforts behind Menna, Murphy and DuPont, who recognize Red Bank's rise to preeminence in this state and around the nation is a prize won, not a burden acquired.

Eugene Melody III

Red Bank