Victor Scudiery Endorses Welle For Congress

For Immediate Release:
12/18/18


Red Bank, NJ – Victor Scudiery, who chaired the Monmouth County Democrats for 23 years, endorsed Josh Welle for Congress in the 4th Congressional seat held by Chris Smith for 37 years.

Josh Welle

In a statement, Scudiery said that “Josh understands the challenges our working families face to pay their mortgages, their bills and their health care. He’s taken the time to listen to our residents’ concerns and has innovative ways and ideas to make Washington work for us again.

“His experience in the Navy and in starting a tech business, give him critical insight into the jobs and careers of the 21st Century. He can help shape a new economy for our region and nation.

“I am particularly struck by Josh’s leadership skills. The Navy taught him well. He has the experience of a Naval Officer who must put service first and protect the rights of all people. We need more people who put service before self in Washington.”

Welle welcomed the support of the chairman, who helped to elect a Democratic majority to Monmouth County government and ended 35 years of Republican rule.

“I’m honored to have the support of such an important leader in politics and business,” Welle said. “Victor’s care and concern for his employees, our party and our institutions is legendary. With his counsel to help guide me, I believe we’re even closer to winning in November.”

Monmouth County Democrats Announce Passing of Long-Time Democratic Leader Joe Caliendo

Fellow Democrats,

It is with deep sorrow that I report the passing of Monmouth County Democratic leader Joseph P. Caliendo.

Joe spent over five decades leading the Democratic Party in Monmouth County. In 1962, Joe became a Democratic county committee member in Middletown. By 1969, Joe became the President of the Middletown Democratic Club. He led the Middletown Democrats for 25 years, 10 of which Democrats controlled the local offices. His commitment showed as he ensured decades of a full county committee slate in Monmouth’s largest town. Until his passing, Joe served as the Monmouth County Democratic Sergeant-at-Arms where he ensured that Democratic traditions were maintained within the party for years.

Joe was a committed labor leader as well. He spent 32 years leading the members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in Monmouth County. Joe retired in 1990, but continued to advocate for labor when he was elected President of the IBEW Local 400 Retiree Union. Joe was also the Vice-President of R.A.C. and served as a delegate for the Monmouth & Ocean Central Labor Council.

Joe’s number one priority was always his family. Joe was married to Patricia Caliendo for nearly 60 years. He is also survived by his three committed daughters, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Former Chairman Victor Scudiery offered the following thoughts on Joe's passing:

"Joe was a tremendous Democratic leader and ally to me throughout my 20 plus years as County Chairman. More than anything, he was a friend. I am heartbroken over his loss and my thoughts and prayers are with Pat and his entire family"

U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone also offered the following thoughts on Joe's life and legacy:

"The passing of Joe Caliendo is a tremendous loss to all who knew him and the entire community. His dedication to our shared Democratic values never wavered, and he championed our party for decades in Middletown and Monmouth County. I considered Joe a personal friend, extend his wife and his entire family my condolences, and join you all in mourning. We can honor his memory by continuing to stand strong for what we believe in, no matter how difficult the fight."

The viewing will be on Saturday, December 13th from 9:00am to 11:00am. It will be held at John Pfleger Funeral Home, 115 Tindall Road, Middletown, NJ. A service will be held at the funeral home followed by the burial at Mount Olivet Cemetary, 100 Chapel Hill Road, Red Bank, NJ.

On a personal note, Joe introduced me to Democratic Party politics in Monmouth County and has been instrumental to my life during the past ten years. The Monmouth County Democratic Party has lost one of our greatest minds and hardest workers. He will be missed dearly.

Yours Truly,

Vin Gopal
Chairman, Monmouth County Democrats

Democratic Hall of Fame Dinner

This past Thursday night the Monmouth County Democrats held their inaugural Hall of Fame Dinner, where they inducted 6 longtime and distinguished members of the Monmouth County Democratic organization into its Hall of Fame. It was well attended by many prominent democrats from around the county and included a keynote address from a very special guest, former Governor James Florio.

Those honored during the induction ceremony where:

Feeholder John D'Amico (Oceanport)

Dorothy Davis (Red Bank)

Norma Rosenbloom (Shrewsbury)

 Mayor Michael Ryan (Lake Cuomo)

Robert Salman (Marlboro)

and

Chairman Victor V. Scudiery ( Middletown)

I snapped a few pictures from the evening to share with everyone, it was truly a great event! 

Governor Florio and HoF inductee John D'Amico 

Mayor Jon Hornichk, Governor Florio and Victor Scudeiry 

Governor James Florio

Mayor Mike Ryan

Members of the Monmouth County Woman's Cuacus

Middletown's Bill Stevenson and Harry Hanna

Michael Murphy and HoF inductee Mayor Michael Ryan

Charles Uliano and HoF inductee Chairman Victor Scudeiry

Mayor Jon Hornick and HoF inducteee Robert Salman

MCD's Vice Chair Mary Foster and HoF inductee Norma Rosebloom

The Unofficial (Official) Numbers From Tuesday Night's Democratic Reorg

As everyone knows by now, this past Tuesday night the Monmouth County Democrats held their reorganization meeting at the Shore Casino in Atlantic Highland and Vin Gopal was elected to serve as the party's Chairman for the next two year.

It was a hard fought contest between Gopal and Frank LaRocca in which each party spent their money like drunken sailors on shore leave (rumored to be well over $35K each) to succeed the retiring Chairman, Victor Scudiery.

The one question that people keep asking me however is whether or not all that money was well spent or could it have been put to better use helping to fund this year's County races? Unfortunately that's a question that can't be answered right now but what can be answered now is, how did county committee people vote? I know because I have the unofficial /official breakdown of Tuesday night's vote count.

I received the vote count Tuesday night right after the results were announced  but didn't outright publish them because I thought what was the point? It really didn't matter, Vin Gopal received 73% of the 599 votes cast, there was no need.

But seeing how people are curious and there has been all kinds of inaccurate numbers being thrown out there by supports of each Gopal and LaRocca, exaggerating both the margins of victory and defeat, I thought that I should set the record straight so that supporters of each camp can come together and unite towards the common goal of winning in November.

So here are the numbers:


Gopal 439
Foster 419
Pulido 429
Tarantolo 423
Brown 428
Caliendo 428

LaRocca 160
Aaronson 175
Mangan 161
Tarantolo 159
Lee 159
Solomeno 161

Now, let's get back to business, it's time to unite as a party and unruffle the feathers. It's time to support the Democratic County Candidate slate of Shea, Lavan and Steinhorn as their campaigns gear up and we need to get behind and support Vin Gopal and the rest of his leadership team to ensure victory over their Republican rivals.

Democrats Choose Gopal As Monmouth County Chairman

Democrats meet last night at the Shore Casino in Atlantic Highlands to pick a successor to longtime Monmouth County Chairman Victor Scudiery.


I walked through the doors just after 6pm and was surprised by how many people were in the building, to say that it was a packed house would be an understatement, there were easily 700 people or more in the room by the time the polls were opened at 7:30pm.

Crowd shuffling in at Shore Casino

registration line

waiting for speeches and to vote

The atmosphere in the room was electrified by those in attendance and the enthusiasm was contagious, County Committee members were pumped up and ready to choose Chairman Scudiery’s  successor.  When the voting came to an end at 9pm the tension in the room could be cut with a knife, Gopal supporters and LaRocca supporters were anxiously mulling around waiting for the votes to be tabulated.

votes being tabulated

The two men themselves were nervous but remained courteous and was seen speaking to each other moments before being taken to a back hallway to be informed of the outcome of the voting

Gopal and LaRocca before results were announced

In the end it was Vin Gopal who came out of the voting victorious, garnering over 430 votes which represented 73% of the vote against his opponent Frank LaRocca.

Vin Gopal and Frank LaRocca as results were announced to the crowd

In his concession speech Frank LaRocca was gracious and thanked all those that supported him and he vowed to work with and support Gopal in order to get Democrats elected all throughout the County.

LaRocca's concession speech

Vin Gopal thanked everyone who came out to vote and stated that he looked forward to working with Frank LaRocca and all those in the room and stated that he would work tirelessly as the Party’s Chairman.

Chairman Vin Gopal

And just in case there was any doubt about who I supported  here’s a picture of my vote (sorry Frank).

Video From DFA Rally Supporting Gopal For County Chairman

If you remember my post back on May 2nd about the DFA Rally in support of Vin Gopal for Monmouth County Chairman, you'll remember I posted  that the rally was attended by over 130 county committee people and several Democratic mayors from around Monmouth County, who expressed their support and backing for Gopal.

Below is a campaign video of sorts that was just released and posted to You Tube. The video consists of  remarks made by some of those that spoke in support of Vin and his efforts to support and nurture  many Democrats from around Monmouth County so that they may become successful.

If you are a County Committee person that will be voting on June 12th for the person who will succeed Victor Scudiery as the next Democratic Chairman of the County, you should watch this video. It will tell you a lot about who Vin is and why he is admired so much by many Democrats from around Monmouth County and the state.

What Are They Thinking? Monmouth Candidate Slate Endorses LaRocca

I received the below press release from the Frank LaRocca camp announcing that Monmouth Democratic Candidates for Freeholder Bill Shea and Kevin Lavan along with County Clerk Candidate Michael Steinhorn, have gone public and announced their support of Marlboro's Frank LaRocca to succeed Victor Scudiery as the next Monmouth County Democratic Chairman. LaRocca is vying to be the next County Chairman against Long Branche's Vin Gopal, who narrowly lost last years District 11 race for State Assembly.

This is a head scratcher to me, I can't image what these guys are thinking and I wonder why they would want to publicly choose side between the two men looking to succeed Vic Scudiery as Chairman.

Don't get me wrong, they have every right to support who they wish to succeed Scudiery, but by publicly choosing sides they are spliting the party, which could lead to bad blood and cause County Committee members not to support their candidacies for office later. To me they have nothing to gain at this time, but everything to lose.

All three of Monmouth County’s Democratic county-wide candidates today endorsed Frank LaRocca for County Chairman saying he has a demonstrated record of winning elections.

“Frank knows how to win,” said Freeholder candidate Kevin M. Lavan, a former Hazlet Mayor. “It’s not enough to just want to win; a party chairman has to know how to win. Frank does.”


As the Marlboro Democratic Party Chairman, LaRocca has won 8 out of 9 elections, making Marlboro a model for how to build a Democratic Party organization from the ground floor. When he took over, there was an all Republican Council and a Republican Mayor. Now Mayor Jon Hornik and a Democratic Council are providing innovative, effective leadership in Marlboro.


“Frank is the proven winner among the candidates for chairman,” said Freeholder candidate Bill Shea. “He is proving this right now as a candidate by supporting local municipalities and the County campaigns.” LaRocca rolled out his municipal plan last week providing all Democratic candidates with a free photo shoot. In addition, LaRocca has stepped in to support the County candidates, providing them with walk cards and hosting a fundraiser for the ticket on May 16.


“As Democratic County Chairman, it is important to help the municipal candidates get out the message,” said LaRocca, who is announcing Phase II of his municipal effort this week. “Providing the local candidates with a photo shoot is just the beginning. This week, we will roll out providing websites and campaign signs for our municipal candidates and in the coming weeks, we will offer candidate training on engaging communities in grass roots campaigns, and energizing the youth vote.” In his municipality, LaRocca has attracted over 1,200 teens to become part of the local government in the Teen Advisory Committee, started prior to his election in 2007.


County Clerk candidate Michael Steinhorn said LaRocca is the only candidate with the experience and maturity to lead the party.


“We believe our best chance of protecting Democratic Party values and our best chance of winning is with Frank LaRocca at the helm,” said County Clerk candidate Michael Steinhorn. “We’re supporting Frank for County Chairman because he has the knowledge, experience, and maturity to lead us to victory.”


The Monmouth County Democrats will elect a new chairman for the first time in 23 years in June. Chairman Victory Scudiery has announced he will not seek a new term.


“I want to thank, Michael, Bill and Kevin for their confidence,” LaRocca said. “I’ve been out campaigning with our team already. Re-electing President Obama, Senator Bob Menendez, Congressman Frank Pallone and giving our Party a voice in County government is my top priority.”


“Rank and file Democrats from across the county have shown their support for my candidacy for Chairman and know how critical the fall elections are to our future.”

Foster's Name Surfaces for Monmouth Democrat's Vice-Chair

With all the attention being paid to who will be succeeding Victor Scudiery as the next Monmouth County Democratic Chairman, no one has mentioned or spoke about who will be running for the Vice-Chairmanship position when Democrats get together on June 12th to chose Scudiery's successor.

Historically, the vice-chairman position has been held by a woman and with so many strong Democratic women around the county to chose from, who will step forward to seek the postion is anyones guess; former Freeholder Amy Mallet, former Manalapan Mayor Michelle Roth and Keyport's Joy Tomczak are just a few of the names being past around.

One name that I know no one has heard of or thought of, is Middletown's Mary Foster.

Mary Foster has been a hard working County Committeewoman for years and has acted as Middletown's Corresponding Secretary for as long as I have been involved with the Middletown Democrats. And from what I understand, Mary has recently been chosen to be an Obama delegate at this years Democratic National Convention in Charlotte this September.

From what I understand, Mary Foster also happens to works in the offices of Scudiery Enterprises, which may give her a leg up on the competition. I also understand that she is a favorite of Vin Gopal, who is seeking to succeed Chairman Scudiery.

Look for her name to surface soon.

Democracy For America Chairman Jim Dean To Support Gopal For Monmouth County Chairman

The race to become the next Chairman of the Monmouth County Democratic organization is starting to get interesting.

According to a post on PolitickerNJ this morning, Jim Dean, the founder and Chairman of  Democracy for America, will be coming to Asbury Park NJ on April 29th to support Vin Gopal in his effort to become the next Chairman of the Monmouth Democrats.

From PolitickerNJ:

Jim Dean, National Chairman of Democracy for America, the nation's largest grassroots political action committee, is getting involved in a New Jersey county chairman's race.

Dean will be in Asbury Park on April 29 to speak to county committee members about supporting Vin Gopal's candidacy. Dean's brother, Howard Dean, is the founder of DFA and is a former Democratic National Committee chairman and 2004 Presidential candidate.

Gopal, a Long Branch businessman, is running against Marlboro Democratic Party Municipal Chairman Frank LaRocca in the June convention. The winner will succeed 23-year incumbent Victor Scudiery, who is retiring. 

Vin Gopal Announces Candidacy for Monmouth County Democratic Party Chairman

Receives overwhelming support across Monmouth County from more than 100 Democratic Leaders and the unanimous endorsement of the Monmouth-Ocean AFL-CIO Central Labor Council

February 14th, 2012

Contact: 732-299-5625


LONG BRANCH – Democratic activist and local businessman Vin Gopal formally announced his candidacy for Monmouth County Democratic Party Chairman with the support of more than 100 Democratic Party municipal chairs, mayors, elected officials and local leaders.

After serving as the Monmouth County Democratic Party Chairman for 24 years, Victor V. Scudiery recently announced that he would not seek another term as the County Chair.

“Victor has led our party with courage and integrity, growing this county’s Democratic organization and helping to elect dozens of Democrats throughout the county” said Gopal. “I know that he will continue to support Democrats after June as he focuses on his other business and charitable endeavors.”

In an impressive show of support, elected Democrats throughout Monmouth County signed a letter touting Gopal’s record of fundraising and organizing. These Democratic party leaders are encouraging fellow Democrats to support Gopal, citing his recent bid for the New Jersey State Assembly, where he received the most votes of any Democratic legislative candidate in Monmouth County. Gopal was also the only Monmouth County Democratic Legislative Candidate who received an endorsement from the Asbury Park Press and his team was able to raise over $200,000 for his campaign.

Gopal has spent the last six years organizing and fundraising for Democratic campaigns throughout Monmouth County. Gopal has hosted over thirty fundraisers, which helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for Democratic candidates for municipal and county races. Gopal’s aggressive fundraising efforts have helped the Democrats win elections in key municipalities and his grass roots organizing has led to the formation of new Democratic Clubs in Colts Neck, Neptune City, Little Silver, West Long Branch and other municipalities.

Joe Caliendo, Chairman of the Middletown Democratic Party, which has 92 County Committee seats and would be crucial to any candidate’s effort to become the County Chairman, has endorsed Gopal, stating: “I am supporting Vin Gopal because he brings energy and experience, a combination we need for the Monmouth County Democrats. I will let our delegation know why I am supporting Vin this June as Victor Scudiery's successor.”

Gopal currently owns and operates several businesses, including a chain of community publications supported by over 200 advertisers that reach over 35,000 homes and businesses each month. He also owns and operates a retail embroidery and sign store in Hazlet that serves more than 1,000 customers per year. Gopal serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Northern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trustees of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monmouth County and is President of the Hazlet Business Owners Association. Gopal also volunteered for many years as an EMT for rescue squads in Freehold and Colts Neck.

A graduate of Penn State University, Vin Gopal is a former legislative aide to New Jersey Assemblyman Herb Conaway and former fundraiser for Newark City Councilman Ron Rice, Jr. He resides in Long Branch, NJ.

Please see below for full text of endorsement.

Dear County Committee Member:

“With news that Monmouth County Democratic Party Chairman Victor Scudiery will retire in June, we fully endorse Vin Gopal as the next county chairman.

We believe that Vin, as County Chairman, will best carry on the work that Vic Scudiery started and will help lead our party toward Democratic victories across the county. While Vic’s generosity and commitment can never be replaced, we know that the Monmouth County Democratic Party under Vin will emphasize a new vigor, fresh perspective and a bright future for all Democrats.

We are confident that Vin will provide the leadership we need because he has a proven record of fundraising, organizing, and party-building. Vin has hosted over thirty fundraisers for municipal and county candidates, helping to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars. Vin has also been the driving force in the formation of many new Democratic Clubs such as West Long Branch, Colts Neck, and Neptune City. Additionally, Vin has built alliances statewide that will move Monmouth County forward.

As a candidate for State Assembly this past year, Vin was the only Democratic legislative candidate from Monmouth County to win the endorsement of The Asbury Park Press. He was also the highest vote-getter of any Democratic legislative candidate in Monmouth County this year. Vin has been there for every one of us and we are confident he will be an outstanding party chairman who will unite Democrats across this county.

Based on all of these reasons and many others, we are proud to stand with Vin Gopal today and we will stand with him in June at our convention. We all look forward to urging our respective county committee members to support Vin because he is the best person to lead our party.”

Signed below.

DEMOCRATIC MUNICIPAL CHAIRS

Bill Shenton, Aberdeen

Amy Quinn, Asbury Park & County Dems Vice-Chair

Luis Pulido, Belmar

Ed Cicchi, Bradley Beach

Rick Ambrosia, Colts Neck

Matt Cohen, Fair Haven

J.J. Mistretta, Freehold Township

Rebecca Kane, Highlands

Andy Bace, Hazlet

Tony Orsini, Holmdel

Steve Morlino, Howell

Robert Napoli, Interlaken

John McCarthy, Keansburg
Bob Bergen, Keyport

Daniel J. O'Hern, Little Silver

Mike Ryan, Lake Como

Gerry Ward, Manalapan
Florlee Wan, Matawan

Joe Caliendo, Middletown

Jackie Dollive, Neptune City

Jim Mowczan, Neptune

Janice Robbins, Ocean Township

Ed Zipprich, Red Bank

Ann Baker, Roosevelt

Dina Long, Sea Bright

Norma Rosenbloom, Shrewsbury Borough

Ed Nolan, Shrewsbury Township

Michael Lee, Tinton Falls

Ken Connors, Union Beach

Eric Brophy, Wall Township

Larry Shapiro, West Long Branch

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini

Asbury Park Mayor Ed Johnson

Belmar Mayor Matthew Doherty

Bradley Beach Mayor Julie Schreck

Neptune Mayor Randy Bishop

Lake Como Mayor Mike Ryan

Sea Bright Mayor Dina Long

Roosevelt Mayor Beth Battel

Shrewsbury Mayor Ed Nolan

Spring Lake Mayor Jennifer Naughton

Aberdeen Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone
Asbury Park Deputy Mayor John Loffredo

Neptune Deputy Mayor Eric Houghtaling

Aberdeen Councilman Greg Cannon

Atlantic Highlands Councilman Roy Dellosso

Freehold Borough Council President George Schnurr

Hazlet Committeeman Joe Belasco

Highlands Councilman Chris Francy

Highlands Councilwoman Rebecca Kane

Highlands Councilman Kevin Redmond

Holmdel Committeeman Larry Fink

Interlaken Councilman Robert Napoli
Keyport Council President Christian Bolte

Keyport Councilman Kenneth McPeek

Keyport Councilman Joe Sheridan

Keyport Councilwoman Joy-Michele Tomczak
Lake Como Councilwoman Marni McFadden-Lee
Lake Como Councilwoman Patricia Tzibrouk
Little Silver Councilman Daniel J. O’Hern
Neptune Committeeman Kevin McMillan
Neptune Committeewoman Mary Beth Jahn
Red Bank Council President Art Murphy

Red Bank Councilman Ed Zipprich

Red Bank Councilwoman Kathy Horgan

Red Bank Councilwoman Juanita Lewis

Red Bank Councilwoman Sharon Lee

Spring Lake Councilwoman Janice Venables

Spring Lake Councilwoman Priscilla Reilly

Spring Lake Councilman Bob Drasheff

Mike Beson, Democratic Leader

FORMER FREEHOLDERS

Former Monmouth County Freeholder Amy Mallet

Former Monmouth County Freeholder John D'Amico

Former Monmouth County Freeholder John Villapiano

LABOR LEADERS

Monmouth Ocean AFL-CIO CLC - Official Unanimous Endorsement
Wyatt Earp
Mike Ryan

Pete Geronimo

Chuddy Whalen

Joe Caliendo

ADDITIONAL ENDORSEMENTS

"As Democratic leaders in Red Bank, we proudly support Vin Gopal as the next county Democratic Chairman. Vin has supported Democrats in Red Bank for years, helping us raise money and helping us organize our campaigns. He would make an outstanding chairman and we plan to inform the Red Bank delegation about our support.”


Red Bank Democratic Party Municipal Chairman & Councilman Ed Zipprich

Red Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna
Red Bank Council President Art Murphy

Red Bank Councilwoman Kathy Horgan
Red Bank Councilwoman Juanita Lewis
Red Bank Councilwoman Sharon Lee

Red Bank Democrats Vice Chairwoman Lauren Niccosia
Red Bank Democratic Club President Barbara Boas

Red Bank Democratic Club Secretary Deborah Marks

"As Democratic leaders in Middletown, Monmouth County's largest municipality, we proudly support Vin Gopal as the next county Democratic Chairman. Vin has supported Middletown for years, helping to raise money for our municipal candidates and helping the party any way he can. We will urge the 92 member Middletown delegation to support Vin Gopal this June for county chairman."


Joe Caliendo, Middletown Democratic Party Municipal Chairman

Sean F. Byrnes, Former Middletown Township Committeeman (2008-2011)
Marilyn Tuohy, Middletown Democratic Party Vice-Chairwoman

Marilyn Maguire, State Committeewoman
Don Watson, Middletown Democratic Club President

John Amberg, Middletown Democratic Party

Marilyn Michaels, Middletown Democratic Party
Linda Baum, Middletown Democratic Party

James Grenafege, Democratic Nominee for Middletown Township (2011)

Mary Mahoney, Democratic Nominee for Middletown Township (2010)

Mike Morris, Middletown Democratic Party


“The Manalapan Democrats join Chairman Gerry Ward in fully endorsing Vin Gopal for County Democratic Chairman. As 3 former Democratic Mayors, we give Vin our 100% support and we know he will work hard to help Democrats win across Western Monmouth.”

Former Manalapan Mayor Michelle Roth

Former Manalapan Mayor Beth Ward
Former Manalapan Mayor Drew Shapiro

Scudiery Says GoodBye; Announces Intention To End Term As Monmouth County Democratic Chairman

Dear County Committee Member,

In looking back at nearly a quarter century in politics, you remember sweet victories and frustrating defeats. But what you remember most are the people. Once the victory night celebration has faded, the speeches have blurred and the music has quieted, the memory is of the people who worked with you, stood beside you and tried to make a positive difference.

For more than two decades, together we’ve stood side-by-side with Monmouth County and New Jersey’s working families. We’ve stood by those trying to do the right thing, those who work hard to make their children’s future brighter; those who get up every morning and go to work, who struggle to pay the mortgage and their utility bills, to put food on the table for their families; those who attend their places of worship with pride and dignity; those who coach their children’s Little League teams; those who attend the parent teacher conferences.

The wealthy and the powerful always have someone to speak for them; our party gives voice to those who would otherwise be voiceless. Together we have provided that voice and leadership.

During my tenure, New Jersey has elected a Democrat every time there’s been a state-wide federal election. We’ve won every state-wide Presidential and U.S. Senate election. We’ll do so again this year.

I take pride in the ideal that as Democrats we represent all of the people. Our candidates reflect the diversity of the most diverse state in the country. Our ticket this year will reflect that diversity. President Barrack Obama, the first African-American President and U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, our state’s first Hispanic United States Senator. We’ve come a long way in 23 years and proven that our Party is open to all. During my tenure New Jersey also elected its first Italian-American Governor and we’ve elected more women to office than any time in our history.

But as former Speaker of the House of Representatives Thomas “Tip” O’Neil said, “All politics is local.”

Here in Monmouth County we’ve provided outstanding leadership and built from the municipalities up a growing party that has made enormous strides. Our Mayors and Council members are providing innovative, open and honest government across Monmouth County. We took leadership back on the Freeholder Board and are positioned by developing an outstanding local farm team to provide Democratic leadership again.

During my time as chairman we worked together to take back the 12th Legislative District. We worked to defeat an incumbent Republican Congressman and to elect Congressman Rush Holt. U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone has represented much of our county for 24 years.

I believe we’ve been successful as a party because people like you got involved for the right reasons, not because they were looking for a title, status or any other aggrandizement. We succeed when we put the people and the party first.

I urge our Democratic leaders throughout New Jersey to work to stop the infighting and the deal making that pits one group in our party against another. We need to support policies that help the many and walk away from policies that seem to enrich just a few.

Perhaps my favorite memory of politics in Monmouth County is not of a race that we won, but the one that’s most vivid – my first. John Winterstella and Gene Anthony were candidates for Freeholder in my first year; Jack Manutti and Annie Grant contested the Constitutional Offices. In that year, Surrogate Patricia Bennett was our only Democratic county-wide official. I walked with the candidates every day and night, we campaigned hard for months, and in the end came up a few hundred votes short. But we launched the party in the right direction. We gave it a start.

After 23 years, I’ve decided to end my term as Chairman of the Monmouth County Democrats. But I know that because all of the work of dedicated, loyal Democrats like you, I will leave it in good hands.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for the honor and privilege of serving the Monmouth County Democrats and all of the people of Monmouth County.

To our friends in organized labor; everyone who’s ever stuffed an envelope, made a phone call or talked to your neighbors to help elect a Council member or President; everyone who’s given of their time and their money to support our candidates; all of those who have put themselves before the voters and stood up for our party and its principles; all of those who have been selfless in their dedication to a cause that’s right, I thank you.



Godspeed,


Victor V. Scudiery, Chairman
Monmouth County Democrats, Inc.

Monmouth County Democratic Chairman's Ball Huge Success

I just got in a few minutes ago from the Monmouth County Democratic Chairman's that was held at Sterling Gardens in Matawan this evening and based on what I witnessed there I have to say that it was a huge success.

I got there late due to the fact that I had came directly from work. I knew I was in for a special evening when I couldn't find a parking spot and had to double park along the back fence of the lot.

Inside I was stunned to see that it was wall to wall Democrats that came out to see special guest, Newark Mayor Cory Booker, who took the time out of his busy schedule to stop by Monmouth County and honor Democratic Chairman Victor Scudiery.

It's been a long time since I've seen such a large turn-out as this, with ticket that cost $125 a person they really raked in some cash.

I wish that I could remember exactly what Booker spoke about, I was still a little disheveled from arriving late but from what I do remember, Mayor Booker gave a very inspirational speech about his father and growing up. He related those experiences to how he now perceives himself and how he wishes to help others.

I was very impressed.

I heard him speak before at an Obama Rally in Newark last year but was to far away to appreciate what he was saying. He definitely has the "IT" factor. He will be a huge force in politics both locally and nationally for a long time if he chooses to be.

After Mayor Booker left the reception center, Congressman Frank Pallone and the candidates for County Office, Sheriff candidate Eric Brophy, Freeholder Candidate Janice Venable and Freeholders Amy Mallet and John D'Amico spoke about the issues and the upcoming election.

They really got those in the audience fired-up, which I was happy to see, because it seems that Democrats have just been going through the motions this year with little enthusiasm. I felt that those that walked out of the reception center were really going to start engaging full throttle in this years election as they left.

Speaking of "as they left", I want to thank Chairman Scudiery for stopping Mayor Booker on his way out the door long enough to introduce him to me so that I could grab a picture with him. I also want to thank John McCarthy for being in the right place at the right time. As I was standing there trying to get a picture of Mayor Booker my camera's batteries died, if he wasn't there to remind me that I had another camera built within my cell phone and was willing to take the photo, I would never have forgiven myself for walking out the door early this morning without back-up batteries. Thank you both.

Newark Mayor Cory Booker To Host Monmouth County Chairman's Ball

Here's an event I am surely not going to miss!

Monmouth County Democratic Chairman Victor V. Scudiery

&

The Monmouth County Democrats Executive Committee

Cordially invite you to attend the

21st Annual

Chairman's Ball

With Special Host

MAYOR CORY BOOKER

Thursday, September 30th, 2010

7:00pm ~ 9:30pm

Sterling Gardens

227 Freneau Avenue (Rt. 79)

Matawan, NJ 07747

$125 per person

Black Tie (Optional)

Sponsorships

Gold Level Sponsorship ~ 8 Tickets and Full Page Ad ~ $5,000

Silver Level Sponsorship ~ 4 Tickets and Full Page Ad ~ $2,500

Ad Journal

½ page: $100 Full page: $150

Covers (3): $500

For more information, pls e-mail me back @ vin.gopal.2008@gmail.com

Byrnes Fundraiser At "The Downtown" Announced

Vin Gopal, Chuck Fallon & Jonathan Lomurro, Esq.

cordially invite you to a reception in support of

SEAN BYRNES

for Monmouth County Freeholder

and honoring our Chairman,

VICTOR V. SCUDIERY

Co -Hosted By:

Freeholder Amy A. Mallet

Mayor Pasquale Menna

Councilman Arthur V. Murphy

Councilwoman Sharon Lee

Councilwoman Kathy Horgan

Councilman Michael DuPont

Councilwoman Juanita Lewis

Councilman Ed Zipprich

Middletown Councilman

Patrick Short

Matawan Councilman

Joseph 'Bud' Mullaney

Neptune Committeeman

Randy Bishop

Brielle Councilman

Rick Bolger

Mayor Edward J. McKenna

Ocean Township Board of Ed

Member Mike Beson

Middletown Democrats

Chairman Joe Caliendo

Amy Quinn, Esq.

West Long Branch

Democrats Chairman

Lawrence Shapiro, Esq.

April Klimley

Tom Bertoli

Commissioner Raj Mukherji

Michael Murphy, Esq.

Wednesday,

Wednesday, August 19th

6:00pm to 9:00pm

The Downtown

(10 West Front Street, Red Bank)

Ticket: $100 per person, $175 per couple

($40 for those 30 and under)

RSVP to Vin Gopal, 732-299-5625

or by e-mail to vin.gopal.2008@gmail.com

What If Frank Pallone Had A Fundraiser And No One Showed Up?

That's not exactly what happened but it seems that sometime last week, Congressman Frank Pallone had a fundraiser out on Sandy Hook. From what I was told it was a very nice little get together at the Crow's Nest.

I wouldn't know because no one from Middletown was asked to attend. I only found out about it because friends from Hazlet and Wall mentioned it to me.

Not only did he NOT invite anyone from Middeltown, he froze out Monmouth County Chairman Victor Scudiery who also knew nothing about the function.

Congressman Pallone, how can you have a political fundraiser in Middletown (yes, Sandy Hook is part of Middletown) and not inform the Municipal Chairman or the County Chairman that you are throwing such a shindig in their own backyard?

Irregardless of your personal feeling towards the two Chairmen, you still should have mentioned it to them, it wasn't very classy Frank.

Morehead To Announce Candidacy for 13th District

Matt Morehead, Chairman of the Monmouth County Bayshore Young Democrats, has just announced that he will be seeking the Democratic Party line to challenge Republican Amy Handlin in the 13th NJ Legislative District Assembly race this year.

 The Middletown resident  will be appearing at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft to announce his intent to run for public office.

The press event will take place from noon to 1 p.m. in the Student Life Center’s Navesink II Room.

Will he actually get the go ahead from the Monmouth Democrats? It's hard to say, but I wouldn't rule it out. After all I haven't heard of anyone else that is willing to run against Handlin as of yet.

Matt Morehead is a fresh face that has worked very hard over the past couple of years to bring attention to youth issues. He could put up a very good fight if given the chance.

 
 Caption: Matt Morehead with Victory Scudiery and Brookdale Democratic Club President

Glenn Mason says "Thank You"

What an experience it has been for me to have had the privilege to run in the campaign for Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Immediate thanks go out to all the volunteers who gave their time and support to help Amy and myself through this election. There is no campaign without the tireless efforts of volunteers, and I cannot thank them enough. Thanks to my family and life long friends for their unconditional support, and to true and loyal friends like Lenny, Erv and Joe Caliendo who were always there to help organize, motivate and lend their experience. Their support was unwavering and constant. I would also like to thank the Municipal Chairs, the Mayors and Committee people and the Staff at the County office as well as all the Union’s which supported us.

If it were not for Chairman Scudiery, I would never have been given this tremendous opportunity and chance to serve the people of Monmouth County.

It was a pleasure and an honor to make a run for the Office of Freeholder, and without the support from both Freeholders John DAmico and Barbara McMorrow, I am not sure I would have learned as much or made it as far as I did.

A special thanks goes to my running mate and future Freeholder, Amy Mallet. The people of this County are going to see what a brilliant and compassionate person she is as she serves this County. Once again I appreciate the chance I was given, and my only regret is I will not be able to serve the people of this county.

I believe that in future elections, with people like Chairman Scudiery and Chairman Oxley (republican), you will see better run elections with less “DIRTY” politics and more attention on the issues.

In closing, all should know that if it was not for Mike Mangan, County Director who stepped up and tirelessly took over my campaign, I would not have been able to finish as well as I did. I thank you all. I will always remember what a life changing, memorable experience this has been, and the many great friends I have met along the way.

Respectfully,
Glenn Mason