defeats Spadea, who will fight on in primary
__________________________________________________________________
Bill Spadea for Assembly
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
January 18, 2012
Open Letter to Republican Committee Members
from Bill Spadea
Dear Republican Committee Member,
I've made the case over the past few weeks through personal visits, phone calls, mail pieces, and events as to why I'm the strongest and most capable candidate to champion the Governor's agenda in Trenton and keep this seat in Republican hands. I did my best to ensure you had ample opportunity to learn about my qualifications, commitment to our party, ability to raise money, and communicate our message effectively. My last note to you before the convention is about something altogether different.
I want to address the responsibility that County Committee Members are charged with at the convention. The event which you will participate in tomorrow night was created by a statute - charging you as Republican Committee Members with a heavy responsibility. Your duty, representing our party, is to enforce the will of the people who elected Assemblyman Pete Biondi by selecting a replacement. There is a clear expectation that the process should be open, fair and honest. Based on the events of the past few weeks, it's clear that the process has been anything but that.
As you now know, a back room deal was cut to deliver the people's seat to a Hunterdon County insider, beholden to the lobbyists, while we mourned the passing of Pete Biondi. The first pick of the two county chairs wasn't even eligible to serve, and quickly withdrew from contention. Following that, with no vetting process, no discussion, and no regard for the legal role of the county committee, they surfaced another candidate, lacking in experience, simply to ensure that the deal stayed intact and their personal interests remained protected. How did it come to pass that two county chairs would be so arrogant as to think they should make a decision for all of you? The manipulation and the intimidation which followed - much of which is now public knowledge - is an embarrassment to our party and an indictment on this process.
When a party is controlled by insiders more interested in their own power than in winning elections and getting ideas into public policy, we all lose. When the interests of two county chairs are put above the interests of the governor and his agenda, we all lose.
The fact that the Governor has remained silent on this convention clearly shows that these two county chairs do not speak on his behalf. These chairs are so desperate to hold on to control that they have even rewritten the rules to eliminate the possibility of a second ballot at tomorrow's convention. That's right; upon failing to secure a majority for their hand-picked candidate, they conveniently changed the rules to try to give her a first round chance with a plurality. Their arrogance would sooner deliver a less qualified candidate beholden to their interests, even at the expense of the Governor's agenda, than cede control of the process to the voters. It's wrong, disgraceful and will be damaging to our party as we head into a tough election cycle in 2012.
Tomorrow night your choice is simple. You'll be able to answer the question as to which direction our party should go. Do you stand for an open, inclusive process where qualified candidates are encouraged to participate and run? Or will your vote be a rubber stamp on the back room deal and the nonsense that has taken place over the past two months? The choice is yours and New Jersey's 'Title 19' provides you the legal opportunity to make it.
Tomorrow night you will have the chance to ensure that the Republican Party stands for a fair, open process in order to champion our ideas by putting up the strongest possible candidate to win in November. Your decision will have a major impact on the direction of our Party, and the ability for us to reform this state and support Governor Christie's strong actions in Trenton. The rest of New Jersey eagerly anticipates your decision, and I look forward to earning your vote tomorrow night.
Sincerely,
Bill Spadea
###
TelephoneTown Hall
for All CountyCommittee Members in
Legislative District 16 in Advance of the Special Convention
On Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at 7:30 p.m., Bill Spadea, Republican Candidate for Legislative District 16, will be holding a Telephone Town Hall to offer County Committee Members an opportunity to ask questions of the candidate before the Convention to be held on Thursday, January 19th. To participate in the town hall please answer your phone at approximately 7:30. Instructions on how to participate will be explained before the event via the telephone call. There is no charge for the call. This is your opportunity to ask the questions you believe are important so please be sure to make plans to be at your telephone Wednesday night at 7:30 pm. We encourage all members of the committee to participate and share their concerns. Bill is looking forward to speaking with you tomorrow night to help you make the most informed decision possible on Thursday.
###
"With great sincerity, I believe the Hunterdon County Committee Members need to know that Bill Spadea is the best Candidate running for the NJ Assembly seat in LD-16"
DearHunterdonCounty Committee Members:
Back in 2004 as I was getting out of my car to go into the Baptistown Corner Store, I noticed a couple of people walking toward me from the direction of Frenchtown. I soon learned it was Bill Spadea and his wife Jodi. As we spoke, they explained that Bill was running for Congress against Rush Holt. They had just started to walk the entire 12th Congressional District. Bill's goal was to walk all 200 miles in order to meet the people of the 12th District. Talking to Bill and his wife, I was impressed with how passionate and sincere they both were. They invited me to attend an event that Bill would be speaking at in Kingwood Twp. later that evening. I agreed to attend. As I listened, I was extremely impressed so I decided to help this genuine man walk the 200 mile journey. And I did most of the way. We knew it would be a long walk, but Bill was determined to make a difference and meet the people in our district as he ran against Rush Holt. As I got to know Bill, and his wife Jodi, they became dear friends. Bill ran a great election in a very difficult district; yet he was never discouraged. He would say, "Don't worry, Janet, we will make a difference and stay involved by helping grow our Republican Party."
Bill kept his word and started Building the New Majority. He organized seminars to train good candidates. The past Hunterdon County Club Director, Ingrid Kiely, and I attended a 3 day seminar led by Bill to learn how to grow the Grass Roots. It was a great experience. Bill has continued to train candidates. As a matter of fact, Bill's opponent, Donna Simon, attended Bill's seminar with me 2 years ago to learn to campaign when she decided to run for the Readington Twp. Committee.
Bill has trained hundreds of candidates and encouraged many others to run for office because he wanted to make a difference. Now with the new 16th district drawn to include Princeton and Flemington, I am again able to help one of the most honest, caring, and sincere people I know run for office.
Politics is a great passion of mine, and has been since I was a young girl. I am driven by the hope of making our country better. I have helped candidates on behalf of the Hunterdon County Republican Committee with great pride. Volunteering my time for the candidates I believe will make a difference, as a member of the RNC's Presidents' Club, as a Hunterdon County Republican Committee Member in Raritan Twp.'s 14th District, and currently as a member of the Raritan Twp. & Clinton Twp. Republican Clubs.
With great sincerity, I believe the Hunterdon County Committee Members need to know that Bill Spadea is the best Candidate running for NJ Assembly seat in LD-16. We need an experienced person to fill this seat who is HONEST, and strong enough to stand his ground on our Republican principles, and conservative values. Bill is a Patriot, a former US Marine, and a Proud American. I'm asking you to do the right thing for our district, and vote for Bill Spadea!
Janet Lee Gasper
Flemington, NJ
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"I urge you to vote for the independent, experienced, community leader, and active party contributor, Mr. Bill Spadea!"
Bill Spadea for Assembly
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
January 16, 2012
Dr. Frederick R. Brodzinski
MercerCounty Republican Committee
Dear Princeton Committee Member:
During my time on the Princeton Republican Committee, I found the members to all be intelligent, thoughtful, independent thinkers who would not follow the party bosses. It was a pleasure to work with such refreshing open minds. I write to you today at my own initiative to encourage you to vote for Mr. Bill Spadea to be our Assembly candidate in the coming special convention. As you may know the old style party bosses have anointed their hand picked and easily controlled candidate for the position. Incredibly that candidate has no public policy experience, no significant record of public service and refuses to debate Mr. Spadea.
Having the unknown puppet candidate handpicked by the party bosses is a horrible throwback to the embarrassing past practices of the very closed Republican Party in New Jersey!! I urge you to vote for the independent, experienced, community leader, and active party contributor, Mr. Bill Spadea!
When I heard that Bill was going to run for the vacancy created by the unfortunate death of Mr. Biondi I thought finally an experienced and qualified fresh face for the Assembly and the Republican Party! Now the protectors of the status quo stand in the way of that happening.
Please take the time to review the qualifications of the candidates and vote your personal evaluation of who will best serve Princeton. I know from experience you will do so!
Best wishes,
Republican Candidate for Mayor of Princeton, 1999
###
Bill Spadea for Assembly
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
"It is with great excitement and confidence that I endorse
Bill Spadea for Assembly," Len Deo of NJ Family First
(January 15, 2012)
I have had the opportunity to work alongside Bill Spadea over the past several years. The common factors that brought us together was our concern for the direction that our state was heading in. Out of control spending, property taxes growing at an unparalleled rate and the state borrowing more and more just to meet operating expenses. NOT A GOOD PICTURE, especially for our kids and grandkids!
I have always known Bill to be a no-nonsense individual, that is driven by fixing what is broken. It was clear to me that the motivation Bill has had to engage in the political arena with his former organization "Building the New Majority" was a spirited effort, which sought to raise up individuals who understood that it is not just about economic issues, although they are important but it also is about family values and keeping the free enterprise system, free. His commitment and perseverance is responsible for encouraging good government by many men and women all throughout our state. I realize we still have a much to be accomplished towards that end. Most notably, Bill's leadership and ability to work as a unifier, during the 2009 Gubernatorial Election process, working together Bill was instrumental in helping to raise resources for a massive coalition effort to move NJ in a new direction. He is a man who gets the job done.
As we enter into 2012, it is clear that many in our state legislature have misdirected priorities. What's number 1? Not jobs, not the economy, not reducing property taxes. No, it's to redefine marriage. We need a leader like Bill Spadea who will be a voice for conservative family values, which includes the protection of marriage, life, religious liberties and a strong moral compass when it comes to fiscal stewardship. It is with great excitement and confidence that I endorse Bill Spadea for Assembly in the 16th Legislative District in NJ. I firmly believe that the state of our state will be stronger and better equipped to face the difficult decisions that we will face in the future.
Len Deo
NJ Family First
###
Simon Campaign & CountyBosses Expose
GOP to Potential Legal Challenges
Princeton, NJ (January 14, 2012) - The Spadea team is raising the legal question as to whether Donna Simon's campaign activities have opened the door to a legal challenge based on the laws governing campaigns in the state. According to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission, Candidates for all elected public offices in the State of New Jersey must file reports of their campaign financial activity. Individuals who engage in "pre-candidacy" activity, commonly known as "testing the waters," are defined by law as candidates. (See page 5 of the Candidate Manual published by NJ ELEC.)
"Conducting campaign activities without filing as a candidate with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission, and Ms. Simon's apparent lack of reporting of funds raised, raises legal and policy questions," stated Spadea attorney, Charlie Spies. "This campaign should be conducted in a transparent manner and in compliance with ELEC rules so voters are informed prior to the convention and primary.
"As demonstrated by her email blasts and phone calls to delegates, along with the mailing of campaign literature, it seems clear that Simon meets the criteria of a candidate as defined by ELEC," said Spadea Campaign Manager, Leigh-Ann Bellew. "Without properly submitting the required candidate filing documentation, Simon and the party bosses are once again potentially exposing the Republican Party to litigation," Bellew continued. "We're prepared to raise the legal question as we know that the Democrats surely will."
The main issue at the heart of the Spadea inquiry asks: Is there the potential for legal questions to be raised if Simon becomes the party candidate?
This would be the second time that party bosses picked a candidate that has the potential of bringing about legal challenges from the Democrats. By contrast, Spadea has run a transparent campaign by filing with NJ Elec, along with regular mailings, phone calls and visits to county committee members to earn their trust and support.
###
Spadea Experience and Reputation Help Outpace Opponent
in Fundraising
Simon Campaign Lacks Ability to Raise Money - Spadea Better
Prepared to Win Against Democrats in November
Princeton, NJ (January 13, 2012) - In just a few short weeks, Bill Spadea has raised more than $25,000 for his convention campaign effort. Although touting her success as a fundraiser, Spadea's opponent, Donna Simon, has reportedly not raised any funds to date.
Spadea has a strong history of raising money as a candidate and as a grassroots leader helping other candidates. During the past few years, he's introduced numerous new donors to groups supporting the Governor and has helped dozens of local campaigns throughout New Jersey. In 2004 when President Bush was projected to lose New Jersey and without any NJ congressional races considered competitive, Spadea was still successful in raising over $350,000 for his own campaign for U.S. Congress.
"In 2009, Bill Spadea helped us organize and lead a coalition of various groups focused on turning out 'Values Voters' for the GOP. With Bill's leadership, we raised and spent six figures that proved a big factor in helping elect Chris Christie," said Betty LaRosa of the NJ Republican Pro-Life Coalition, one of the coalition leaders. Spadea got his start raising money for the GOP in 1993 by raising more money than any other candidate and chairman, up to that point, while serving the Republican National Committee as the elected National Chariman of the College Republicans.
By comparison to Spadea's ability and success, Hunterdon Republican Chair Henry Kuhl raised less than $33,000 during the past legislative cycle and Somerset Chair Al Gaburo raised less than $253,000 according to the last ELEC filings posted. "In order to win in November, the Republican party needs to nominate a leader who has the ability to bring in several hundred thousand dollars to compete effectively against the Democrat machine, which has become competitive in traditional republican districts, counties and municipalities," said long time political operative Anthony Marucci. "Spadea has shown he can do just that."
"How does a candidate who has shown a complete lack of fundraising ability, and two county committees that are struggling to make ends meet going to compete against the vast resources of the unions and the Democrat Party with a laser focused intent on winning this seat?" asked Spadea manager, Leigh-Ann Bellew.
###
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
Bill Spadea for Assembly
January 12, 2012
Party Bosses not Inviting Spadea to Convention
to Thwart Open and Fair Election Process
Spadea Team Considers Legal Options, Will Contact NJGOP and
Secretary of State's Office
Princeton, NJ (January 11, 2012) - Bill Spadea did not receive an invitation to the upcoming convention being held in Hillsborough on January 19th. In an attempt to block Spadea, who has dozens of Somerset County Committee Members already pledged to vote for him, Somerset County Chair, Al Gaburo refuses to meet, return phone calls, or acknowledge that Spadea is a filed candidate.
Somerset's Gaburo along with Hunterdon Chair Henry Kuhl, fearing that Spadea might actually win the convention - especially if the vote goes to a second ballot - are planning to meet this weekend to plot a way to deny the delegates a second ballot opportunity by adopting rules in secret to hand the seat to Simon even without her gaining a majority of the votes. "We're very disappointed that the discussion of rules, time and location are taking place behind closed doors. We're going to force the discussion to take place in the light of day. Nobody should be scared of an open, transparent process, "stated Spadea campaign counsel Charlie Spies. "We'll be reaching out to the NJGOP and the Secretary of State, Kim Guadagno, to ensure that the election is conducted fairly, legally, and in a transparent manner."
"The bosses have resorted to trying to manipulate the rules because their candidate is so weak. Simon, at this time, has no filing on record with ELEC, hasn't reported raising any funds, and has refused to participate in a public discussion of the issues. She's also been plagued with issues surrounding her biography, positions, and affiliation with groups directly opposed to Governor Christie's agenda like the NJ Women's Political Caucus whose main beneficiaries are Democratic candidates. Without any recorded contributions to her campaign so far, it makes you wonder how she is paying for the activity," said Spadea manager Leigh-Ann Bellew. "This is just another example of how the insider bosses think they're above the rules."
Spadea has knocked on more than 120 doors of County Committee members and is earning considerable support among Republicans who are disgusted with the back room, strong-arm tactics. Several members left a Hillsborough GOP meeting earlier this week, and called Bill Spadea personally to pledge their support for him after being upset with the negative attacks on Spadea's character and integrity.
###
"Bill Spadea is the only candidate with the experience, background of service, and ability to carry us to victory in November."
January 12, 2012
Fair Haven, NJ
To LD-16 Committee Members and Fellow Republicans:
As the mayor in my hometown and someone who has known the rough and tumble style of New Jersey politics first-hand, I can tell you that it is without any reservation that I publicly state my 100% support for Bill Spadea. I've known Bill for several years. He's a thoughtful, energetic, enthusiastic leader who is ready, willing and able to stand up for our republican principles of lowering taxes, growing private sector jobs, cutting spending, and holding government accountable to the voters.
2012 is going to be a tough year for our party in New Jersey. The Democrats will stop at nothing to take away another seat in the legislature to further inhibit the Governor's agenda. If we're ever going to win back the majority, the battle starts with the special election in 2012. Bill Spadea is the only candidate with the experience, background of service, and ability to carry us to victory in November.
We need a leader who is willing to sacrifice the many long hours, nights, and weekends to personally deliver our message to the voters. Bill's actions over the past 7 years prove that he's got the will to do just that. He has worked tirelessly supporting and training republican candidates to serve in municipal, county, state, and federal office.
We need a leader who is willing to take our principles into areas that are considered safe for the Democrats in order to convince middle of the road voters that the GOP message is the best for the future of our state and economy. Bill has spent years staying consistent with our principles while winning friends across the aisle. The influx of new Democrats in Princeton and South Brunswick make this a key point when deciding how best to keep the 16th Republican.
Finally, we need a leader who has a plan. As you've heard from numerous county committee folks throughout the past couple weeks, Bill has a detailed and specific legislative plan that will address the key issues in support of Governor Christie - lowering taxes; cutting spending; reforming school funding and furthering changes in state pension and benefits plan to bring down our massive debt.
He's the right guy at the right time and I'm proud to stand with him.
Sincerely,
Mike Halfacre
Mayor, Fair Haven, NJ
Former Congressional Candidate NJ-12
###
Bill Spadea for Assembly
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
January 10, 2012
Former County Chair Weighs in on the
Convention Process
Roy Wesley
Former Chairman
Mercer County Republican Committee
January 7, 2012
AN OPEN LETTER TO REPUBLICANCOUNTY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
IN THE 16TH L.D.
Dear County Committee Member:
I enthusiastically endorse Bill Spadea for the for the open General Assembly seat in the 16th legislative district held by the late Pete Biondi and urge the Republican County Committee members from Mercer, Somerset, Hunterdon and Middlesex counties who represent the 16th legislative district to vote for him in their special convention on January 19th.
I have known and worked with Bill for a number of years. He is a solid Republican and conservative who has done yeoman service for the party for many years. He has organized and supported campaign training workshops throughout the state and has help Republican candidates organize effective and winning campaigns though his leadership of "Building the New Majority". He has run for Congress in the 12th CD against Rush Holt and has chaired the College Republicans' national organization. He is a businessman, father, and long-time resident of the new 16th LD, who represents the mainstream of the Republican Party and is exactly the kind of person we need to run for office, if we ever hope to win control of either house of the legislature. He is a former Marine reservist and community activist who serves on the Zoning Board, is a Little league coach and chairs the annual Veterans Day event in Princeton. Bill will be an independent Republican voice, who will put your interests first and not those of the party hacks and lobbyists, who are always just of out of sight trying to manipulate the process for their own purposes.
Regardless of their personal endorsements, I urge the county chairmen of the respective counties to work together to ensure that the process for selecting Pete Biondi's successor does his memory justice by being fair, open and transparent and guarantees every candidate who wishes to be considered for this office a level playing field and an opportunity to present his or her best case for being elected. I urge every county
committee member to demand no less of their chairs, because the way these candidates are treated will, in the end, be a measure of how you will be treated by these same leaders now and in the future.
The most important job a county committee member has is to select candidates for office and the most solemn of those responsibilities is to select an interim officeholder after an incumbent dies or resigns. You are choosing someone who will take office immediately without a general election and that person is likely to be your candidate in the special election that will follow in November. If you cannot do this simply task right, just what can rank and file Republicans or the general public really expect from you? Regardless of who you support right now, you should allow the process to play itself out and give every candidate a chance to be heard. To do less is an abrogation of your responsibilities and makes your role as county committee member meaningless.
While I was county chairman, I ran many nominating conventions. Ask around and you will find that none of them attempted to load the dice in favor of one candidate or another. If I could do this for presidential, gubernatorial, congressional, state legislative and county candidates, is it too much to expect that it be done to ensure that Pete Biondi's successor is the right person to represent the 16th? Do not let this opportunity to do the right thing slip though your fingers in the hopes of ensuring party unity by keeping the party's elite happy.
As it is often said, elections have consequences. The consequences of a poor selection process and or a poor selection will only serve to weaken out party and do a grave disservice to Republicans and voters, in general. A fair and open process that selects the best candidate to go the General Assembly will, on the other hand, improve our party's image, make it easier to recruit good people to run for public office and help move our state government in the right direction.
In the end, I believe that you will agree with me that Bill Spadea is the best choice in terms of experience, commitment and service to our party and the one who can get elected in the general elections to follow with his commitment to cutting taxes, reducing spending and supporting Governor Christie's reform agenda.
Sincerely,
Roy Wesley
###
Media Update
Spadea: The Wise Choice for Republicans
Click on the link to see the letter as printed in the
There is an old cliché in New Jersey politics that states "When it is the Republicans' election to lose, they will lose." The District 16 special election this year will be theirs to lose unless they wake up.
The electoral composition of the district has radically changed since the 2010 census. In 2007 the Republican Assembly candidates won 58-42. With the elimination of parts of Somerset and Morris counties and the inclusion of South Brunswick and the Princetons the Republicans managed to win the 2011 Assembly race 52-48, a drop of 12 points. The special election will be to replace the deceased Peter Biondi.
At first the Republican "leadership" offered William Mennen of Tewksbury, but he didn't live in the district. Mennen said that he would move, but then changed his mind. They then offered Donna Simon, a councilperson from Readington. Ms. Simon has absolutely no name recognition outside of Readington.
The name recognition becomes even more important in the 2012 general election in that the Democrats will have Barack Obama at the top of their ticket. With Obama every Democrat and Democrat leaner in Middlesex and Mercer counties will be coming out of the woodwork to vote.
The Republicans have a candidate that can overcome the Democrat advantage in the special Assembly Election. That candidate is Bill Spadea of Princeton. Spadea has run for Congress garnering 40 percent of the vote, which is twice what the "experts" said that he would get. He is a party activist with great name recognition in precisely the portion of District 16 where it is needed most. Spadea has already assembled a campaign team with many years of experience. This is in comparison to Simon. Exactly when was the last time the Somerset/Hunterdon Republican parties had to fight for an Assembly seat? A Democrat victory in the 16th would further impede Gov. Christie from achieving his goals.
The Republican chairpersons in Somerset County (Al Gaburo), Hunterdon County (Henry Kuhl), and Mercer County (Dave Fried, Maria Bua) need to put their support behind Spadea at the special convention this month. Spadea can win in November, Simon cannot.
Harold V. Kane
MONROE
###
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
January 9, 2012
Bill Spadea for Assembly
John and Aileen Crowley Encourage Committee Members
to Support Bill Spadea for Assembly
Fellow Republicans:
Our plate is full for sure as New Jersey Republicans head into the 2012 Election! Defeating President Obama, defeating Senator Menendez and setting the stage to re-elect Governor Christie all top the New Year's resolutions! Of course in order to be successful, we'll need to pull together as a Party and keep the Democrats on the defensive in critical areas across New Jersey. One of the most important areas will be in our own 16th District with the special election right around the corner. With Chris Christie's reform agenda in the spotlight all we need to seal the victory is to gain a majority in the legislature. Although that can't happen until 2013, we do have a unique opportunity to get started on the right path by getting behind the most able, effective and electable 16th district assembly candidate, Bill Spadea.
My good friend Bill is seeking your support to serve our new district in Trenton. My wife Aileen and I have known Bill and his wife Jodi for many years. We're good friends and we were thrilled that he decided to throw his hat in the ring for the Assembly. As many of you know and are learning as the campaign progresses, Bill is an energetic, enthusiastic and dynamic leader. He's principled, intelligent and strong enough to stand up to the special interests that have helped drive our state to the brink of insolvency.
Our state Assembly needs leaders; people like Bill understand that the Republican Party is a broad-based coalition, appealing to many different people for many different reasons. Of course we all share a common thread of patriotism, limited government, low taxes and entrepreneurship. Bill Spadea, through the organization we founded a few years ago has been a champion of those ideas at the local level supporting and training hundreds of candidates in counties across New Jersey including Somerset, Hunterdon, Middlesex and Mercer.
Bill's been a leader in our local community as well, serving on the Zoning Board; supporting veterans and participating in charitable events to help others. He's a great guy who has the ability to deliver a tough message with a smile. He's a strong advocate of the Governor's reform agenda and has a history of successful party building that has opened the doors to new voters to join our party in many heavy democratic areas.
My wife Aileen and I are proud to speak out publicly to support our friend Bill Spadea for the job in the 16th district. We sincerely hope you'll join us.
John & Aileen Crowley
Princeton, NJ
###
Bill Spadea: On the Air
Standing Strong for Gov. Christie's 2011 Budget
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732-670-6699
Bill Spadea for Assembly
January 6, 2012
Gov. Christie is working hard to do what is right by the hard working tax payers of New Jersey. He needs strong support in the Assembly to continue the important work he wants to accomplish on behalf of our state. Bill Spadea has been a strong advocate for the Governor's budget and reform agenda. As a member of the Assembly, Bill will continue to support the work of Chris Christie to move New Jersey toward fiscal responsibility and a balanced budget.
Standing Strong for Gov. Christie's 2011 Budget
With an incumbent Democrat President at the top of the ticket in 2012, Gov. Christie will need the strongest candidate possible in the General Election in order to keep the new 16th district Republican.
###
Bill Spadea: On the Air
Defending Tax Cuts to Grow the Economy
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732-670-6699
Bill Spadea for Assembly
January 5, 2012
Bill Spadea has already demonstrated his ability to fight effectively for our core Republican principles. He is the only candidate for the 16th District Assembly seat who has outlined a plan for his first 90 days in office. Today, we'd like to share the first of several key issues that Bill supports, and will champion as a member of the Assembly.
Creating Jobs and Economic Growth in New Jersey through Dramatic Tax Cuts.
ALERT: Please read the important message from Bill below
regarding the upcoming special convention
We learned earlier today that the convention is likely to be held on Thursday, January 19th. We'll be sure to send out a confirmation verifying the time and location soon. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us as we elect the strongest candidate in the field to keep this seat in Republican hands,
Thank you, I am looking forward to earning your support,
___________________________________
Spadea Addresses Montgomery/Rocky Hill Rotary Club
Speaks on behalf of Caring Cooks Academy
Montgomery, NJ (January 5, 2012) - This morning Bill Spadea, real estate executive and candidate for Assembly in New Jersey's 16th legislative district, delivered a speech at the meeting of the Montgomery/Rocky Hill Rotary Club. The speech was on behalf of a charity for which he serves as the spokesman, Caring Cooks Academy. Bill has been an active participant with the group since the organization was founded a little more than a year ago. Founder Gennaro Constible, who started the program as a way of partnering volunteers with charities in the local area, introduced Bill at the meeting. Bill and his wife Jodi were among the first to participate.
Businesses, small groups, and individuals start the process by joining Gennaro at his restaurant in Princeton to receive expert cooking instruction from the friendly kitchen staff. Meals are prepared ranging in quantity from 25 to 100 then delivered that same day to those in need. The experience is valuable for participants and beneficiaries alike. The interaction really demonstrates the tremendous value of volunteering time for a great cause.
One of the main beneficiaries of the work from Caring Cooks Academy is the Center for Great Expectations, a non-profit organization whose mission states, "Grounded in a spirituality that treasures the dignity of all, The Center for Great Expectations seeks to form a partnership with homeless pregnant women in creating a safe place, a safe presence and a safe path so that they may complete a healthy pregnancy, choose the next right step and follow through on their plan."
"I believe it's my duty to work hard to offer opportunities for young women who are in trouble. It's fulfilling to know that our actions are helping to offer a viable alternative for women through great organizations like the Center for Great Expectations," said Spadea. He continued, "One of the most important tasks of Caring Cooks Academy is to serve the community after the holiday season. This is the time when people are recovering from holiday expenses and less likely to donate. The women and children served by the programs at Great Expectations, in particular, benefit from the actions of community volunteers lending a hand to show them that they are not alone."
For more information on helping Caring Cooks Academy or the Center for Great Expectations, please visit the organizations website at www.thecenterforgreatexpectations.org or call the contact number on this release and we'll direct you to the right person.
###
Another Letter of Support for Bill Spadea
"Bill Spadea the true embodiment of a statesman."
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
Bill Spadea for Assembly
January 4,2012
Dear Fellow Republicans:
Hillsborough, NJ (January 4, 2012) - What I believe the Republican party and all New Jerseyans need, especially in the most economically and morally challenged era's of United States history is someone not afraid to take on social and political issues. We need someone who will not falter and not afraid to take a stand for what is right. Citizens are no longer satisfied with career politicians doing the same business as usual, which is putting the needs of self and a career that may even span for decades, above the needs of citizens. Unfortunately there are too many in office who are not statesman. Bill Spadea is the true embodiment of a statesman. He is certainly one who is inspired by patriotism and love of country. He served his country as a Marine, and is an active member in his community during patriotic events supporting our veterans, as well as serving on committees to preserve our U.S. history. Additionally Bill is a true conservative as well, which is exemplified in his fiscally responsible Spadea plan for New Jersey with plans to cut taxes, create jobs,and cut wasteful spending.
What impressed me most about Bill is his true commitment to God, his love of his family
and unwavering love of country. That is how it should be, and in that order. Our country
is missing leaders who are comparable to our founding fathers. Bill has strong
leadership qualities, and is definitely a person who is both approachable and available
to others without any pretentiousness. This is expressed by his willingness to take calls
by people who have questions and concerns, to knocking on thousands of doors to get
to know the community and actually listen. He definitely has a contagious enthusiasm,
integrity and willingness to just simply do the right thing for New Jerseyans.
I am proud to know Bill and believe he is definitely the right choice for our party and our
state. This is a person who's heart and motives are in the right direction and surely one
not to be overlooked.
Susan Rodriguez
Hillsborough, NJ
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Spadea Stands Strong while Insiders get Negative
Touts Experience and Ability as Keys to Winning
Blawenberg, NJ (January 3, 2012) - Bill Spadea, candidate for the assembly in the 16th district special election this month, haspointed to his extensive leadership experience as the core difference between him and his opponent, Donna Simon. Endorsed by party insiders and Trenton lobbyists, Simon has made much of her one year experience on the Readington Township Committee. In a recent press release, she attempted to redefine her past, after bloggers exposed discrepancies in her online biography by striking references to a well known progressive organization which supports Democrat candidates.
Spadea is continuing to run a retail politics, grassroots effort, personally reaching out to county committee members through calls, emails and personal visits. Spadea has an extensive biography, including 15+ years as a business executive overseeing budgeting and staffing for his division, eight years as a US Marine Reservist, more than a year as an on-air political analyst on New York region TV stations and serving on numerous community organizations, including historicalpreservation and the town's zoning board.
"Bill Spadea has served as an executive leader responsible for millions of dollars in budgets over a 15-year career in the real estate industry. To compare Donna's short stint as a committee member as sufficient experience to represent the entire district is a stretch at best," stated Spadea manager, Leigh-Ann Bellew.
"The insiders' personal attacks on Spadea began at the outset of their campaign. After failing on their first attempt to secure the nomination for an insider candidate, the establishment settled on the far weaker Simon. Bill has been called names, had his integrity assaulted and yet remains positive as he gains momentum heading into the closing weeks of the convention," continued Bellew.
"It's really disappointing to see Donna Simon launch an outright negative campaign against her opponent who has faithfully served his community, country and our cause as a committed Republican leader. Anyone who knows Bill knows that he has sacrificed countless hours building up our party. Our support is unwavering," said Louis Carl Reiner of the Hunterdon County Committee from Raritan Township.
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Another Letter of Support for Bill Spadea
"A true patriot and dedicated Republican"
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732.670.6699
Bill Spadea for Assembly
January 3, 2012
County Committee Members and Fellow Republicans:
Princeton, NJ (January 3, 2012) - I'm reaching out to you on behalf of my friend, political mentor and fellow US Marine, Bill Spadea. In 1992 after we both were fresh out of Marine Corps boot camp in Parris Island, South Carolina and having spent time away from family and friends training to be field artillery specialists, we both ended up assigned to the Headquarters Marine Unit in Philadelphia. We served as Fire Direction Control men, responsible for calculating direction and distance for the big guns in the field. Bill was a polished Marine, I learned much later after we became friends that he was the only 'boot' in his enlisted unit in South Carolina and Oklahoma to have graduated college. He is a good Marine with a strong presence that many of the younger Marines looked up to despite his own young age and rank of Lance Corporal.
He earned another stripe demonstrating his intelligence, expertise and leadership ability. People just liked him. This guy was tough, smart and approachable.
When we both left military service, Bill went on to apply his leadership skills, and tough decision making ability to business where he succeeded in the private sector helping build one of New Jersey's largest employers despite tough economic times. For me, I went into the private sector as well and although Bill and I lost touch for a couple years, I was thrilled to learn about his candidacy in 2004 against entrenched incumbent Rush Holt. Bill was eager to take the campaign to the voters directly and proceeded to knock on 17,000 doors far exceeding expectations by earning more than 115,000 votes in a solid Democrat district. At the time, I wasn't registered with a party and after conversations with Bill and understanding the value that the Republican Party brings to the debate - especially our strong support for the military community and economic growth policies, I became a proud Republican.
I wanted to share my friendship and ask for your support at the upcoming convention for my friend, a true patriot and dedicated Republican, Bill Spadea.
See you in a few weeks.
Sincerely,
Tom Meehan
Former USMC Reservist
Chief Financial Officer, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC
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Media Update
"Mr. Spadea has embodied all that is honest
and judicious about politics."
To the editor:
I'd like to encourage the Republican representatives of Legislative District 16 to share the people's views and appoint Bill Spadea to the late Assemblyman Biondi's seat.
Mr. Spadea has embodied all that is honest and judicious about politics. His organization, Building the new majority, served to unify and bridge the political divide among Republicans and unaffiliated voters in the greater Middlesex/Mercer/Somerset County area. His emphasis on partnership between the different levels of federal, state, county, and municipal campaigns helped countless GOP nominees synergize, saving money and resources and avoiding duplication of efforts. By sharing his professional and political experiences with others, he has encouraged and inspired many to follow in his example of public service and dedication to his community.
A poll of the Republican and unaffiliated voters in the greater LD16 will undoubtedly show popular support for Mr. Spadea given his previous campaigning efforts and the open-door policy and level of responsiveness he maintains with his neighbors and supporters. An email to Mr. Spadea rarely goes unanswered for longer than 10 minutes, and phone calls are answered or promptly returned, always with good advice.
Having grown up in Montgomery Township, I believe that leaders like Mr. Spadea will reinvigorate young adults' interest in government in the high-performing school districts of Hunterdon, Somerset, and Mercer Counties and is certain to earn the respect and admiration of young people, hopefully inspiring them to avail of opportunities to serve their communites.
We need a representative who will remain committed to his district, and one who will honor Asm. Biondi's legacy by continuing to faithfully serve the residents of LD16. Please join me, my family, and the majority of residents in supporting Mr. Spadea's candidacy.
Krishna Jagannathan
Plainsboro
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Spadea Ready to Tackle the Issues and
Take His Experience Directly to the Voters
Opponent Pushed by Party Bosses and Lobbyists
For Immediate Release
January 2, 2012
Contact:
Leigh-Ann Bellew
press@billspadea.com
cell: 732-670-6699
Bill Spadea for Assembly
Princeton, NJ (January 2, 2012) - Bill Spadea is eager to participate in the upcoming forum sponsored by the Hillsborough GOP in Somerset County on January 9th. The Hillsborough Republican organization will hold a candidates' forum in order to enable county committee members throughout the district to learn more about each candidate's background, qualifications and ability to serve the constituents. Spadea was the first candidate to accept the invitation from the Hillsborough Republicans.
According to a statement on the Hillsborough Republican Club website, each candidate will be given an opportunity to speak after which there will be a moderated question and answer session. Questions will be limited to members of the club, and elected members of the Republican Committee from Hillsborough. The Hillsborough Republican Club statement declared, "This Forum will give Hillsborough District Committee and other interested Republicans a chance to meet and talk with the candidates..."
"Since Hillsborough was Pete Biondi's hometown, it's appropriate that the local GOP should host the main event before the convention. I'm looking forward to continuing our campaign reaching out personally to the delegates as we approach the forum and then the special convention," said Spadea.
"It's outrageous to see a lobbyist and party bosses attack Bill Spadea and make endorsements in a desperate attempt to make up for their second-choice candidate," said Leigh-Ann Bellew, Spadea's manager. "Less than two short weeks ago these same bosses were solidly behind a different failed candidate and now Donna Simon is their hand-picked second choice," continued Bellew. "Although the lobbyists may prefer Simon, Republicans are concerned because she is a member of a progressive, liberal organization which supported several dozen Democrat candidates last year who are lined up against our Governor's reform agenda."
"As I connect with County Committee Members in each of the four counties comprising the new district, we're gaining solid support. Hunterdon County has been especially positive. Understandably, many of the folks in Hillsborough are undecided pending a real vetting of the candidates at the January 9th event. We're looking forward to a vigorous discussion of the issues, experience and qualifications that will empower the voters to make an informed choice," stated Spadea.
The Candidate Forum will take place on Monday, January 9th at the Avalon at Hillsborough located at 393 Amwell Roadat 7:45 pm.
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Bill Spadea: On the Air
New Jersey Political Year In Review - 2011
For Immediate Release
December 30, 2011
Teri McIntire
press@billspadea.com
cell: 609.658.3859
Bill Spadea for Assembly
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Princeton Township Republicans Endorse
Bill Spadea for Assembly LD-16
December 29, 2011 - Princeton, NJ
Dear Committee Members:
We're proud to support Bill Spadea for the Assembly. Bill has been a strong fixture in our community and District for many years. As a volunteer, he serves on our Zoning Board and the Board of Princeton Battlefield Society. He is the Master of Ceremonies for the Spirit of Princeton and at our significant holiday events, including the Veterans Day and Memorial Day wreath laying ceremonies honoring our fallen heroes. Bill is a positive, enthusiastic, dedicated leader. He used his time and talents on behalf of building our party and candidate development throughout the state. He's a strong supporter of Governor Christie's reform agenda and will be an effective advocate for the taxpayers in the 16th district.
Please join us in casting your vote for Bill Spadea for Assembly at the Special Convention!
Yours,
Colin Vonvorys - Current Princeton Township Committee Member
Stuart Duncan - Current Princeton Township Committee Member
Nelson Obus - Current Princeton Township Committee Member
Tom Pyle - Former Princeton Township Republican Committee Chairman
Jodi Bouer -Princeton Township Republican
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December 22, 2011
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Teri McIntire
press@billspadea.com
cell: 609.658.3859
Bill Spadea for Assembly
Rival Drops Out as Spadea Campaign Gains Significant Momentum
Princeton, NJ (December 22, 2011) - Bill Spadea's campaign for the Assembly in the redrawn 16th District has been gaining momentum over the past week due to his aggressive grassroots effort among County Committee Members. Spadea has already personally connected with more than half the delegates, and is continuing to gain strong support in all four counties, as he heads into the January Special Election. Spadea is a favorite among conservative leaders, veterans and Republican volunteers throughout the 16th district for his principled stand on critical issues like cutting taxes, reducing spending and supporting the Governor's reform agenda. Spadea's broad-based support also includes many current and former elected officials as well as committee members in all four counties that comprise the new district.
The Spadea campaign plan includes personal phone calls and notes from the candidate and dozens of volunteers already signed up to help the campaign. Spadea will be knocking on doors beginning in January to personally deliver his message of job creation and economic growth to the voters in the 16th district. Spadea had this to say, "This has been an exciting campaign so far and we're looking forward to earning the support of a majority of the committee members at the January convention. I firmly believe that my background, experience and ability will serve the constituents in the 16th district well in Trenton."
Some Recent Quotes of Support from Delegates:
"I'm impressed with Bill's background and enthusiasm. We're eager to see him put his experience to work on behalf of New Jersey," stated Marie Eck, Republican Committee Member from Montgomery, Somerset County.
"Bill is a take charge leader with the right experience for the job. He's got my vote, Bill is the best person for the job, and is needed in the New Jersey Assembly" said Lou Reiner, Republican Committee Member from Flemington, Hunterdon County.
"I'm proud as a committee member to stand with Bill. His experience, dedication to our community, message, and ability to communicate will allow him to represent our district well in the legislature," stated Colin Vonvorys, Princeton Republican Committee Member, Mercer County.
"Bill took the time to reach out and explain why he was running and what he hopes to accomplish in Trenton. I know he'll be a reliable vote for the Governor's reform agenda," said Dr. Paul C. Murray, Republican Committee Member from South Brunswick, Middlesex County.
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Three out of four GOP county chairs back Simon in LD16
The Republican County chairs from three counties with pieces of the 16th Legislative District today issued a joint statement in support of Readington Twp. Committeewoman Donna Simon for the Assembly.
"We all firmly believe that Committeewoman Simon is the very best candidate to carry on Pete Biondi's legacy in the general Assembly and retain the seat for our party in the November special election," said the statement of Hunterdon County Chairman Henry Kuhl, Somerset County Chairman Al Gaburo and Mercer County Chairs Dave Fried and Maria Bua.
The statement confirms insider buzz that Simon is the establishment pick to replace Hunterdon County Freeholder William Mennen, who dropped out of the contest this week.
"Donna is a strong conservative who has put taxpayers first in Readington Townshp and will do the same for people in the 16th legislative district," said the trio. "She is committed to smaller, smarter government and will work dilligently to support Governor Christie's pro-growth, lower tax, reform agenda in Trenton."
Republican operative/businessman Bill Spadea of Princeton and South Brunswick Health Board member John Saccenti are also in the race to fill a vacancy created by the death in November of Assemblyman Pete Biondi.
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Mennen bows out of 16th District contention; cites worry about family upheaval with move
William Mennen, who declared his candidacy for the 16th Legislative District Assembly seat held by Peter Biondi before his death, has bowed out of the race, a source with knowledge of his intentions told PolitickerNJ.
Donna Simon of Readington Township has announced her intent to run for the spot.
South Brunswick Health Board member John Saccenti and GOP operative and businessman Bill Spadea have alse declared their intent to run for the seat. Currently the seat is held by Jack Ciattarelli, who was on the ticket alongside Biondi, but was appointed to fill the vacant seat when Biondi died.
From the start of their fledgling contest, Spadea hounded Mennen on the residency question.
A resident of Tewksbury, Mennen at first said he intended to move into the newly configured 16th District, but faced potential obstacles, including the threat of a legal challenge from the Spadea camp.
Ultimately it was just too much family upheaval.
"I wasn't prepared to take the apartment and go by myself," Mennen told PolitickerNJ.com. "I dismissed not moving. It didn't pass my own personal sniff test. And I didn't want to leave my family behind. It would just be too much of a burden for my family to bear."
Sources have told PolitickerNJ that the 16th District seat is slated to be filled by a candidate from Hunterdon County as a result of a deal cut after the legislative reidstricting process, but Spadea and Saccenti have other ideas.
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In LD16, Team Spadea delights in Mennen Team's invocation of arguments used by buried Dem Lewis
After having drubbed Carl Lewis out of contention in LD8 this year, the GOP establishment now wants to employ Lewis’s arguments to buttress one of its own candidates, says energized challenger William Spadea of Princeton.
Threatening to turn into a legal conflagration, the collision here involves 16 District GOP contenders William Mennen of Tewksbury and Spadea, who both want to occupy the Assembly seat vacated by the late Peter J. Biondi.
Mennen is decidedly the establishment choice, against an upstart Spadea, who aggressively challenges Mennen’s candidacy largely based on Mennen’s legal residency.
A long-serving Hunterdon County Freeholder, Mennen doesn’t technically live in the newly drawn, octopus-armed 16 District, but says he intends to move to Readington in the district shortly after the holidays.
Spadea says that’s not good enough, arguing that the state Constitution in Article IV, Section 1, Paragraph 2 requires a member of the N.J. Assembly to have “been a citizen and resident...of the district for which he shall be elected one year..."
Spadea said Mennen is free to run for the Assembly, of course, but that he should run where he lives: in the 23 District.
"Unlike other recent examples, Mr. Mennen was not redistricted out of the 16th district - he simply does not live there," said Charlie Spies, Spadea campaign attorney. "At a minimum, Mr. Mennen's lack of residency in the district that he would apparently like to represent raises questions about his commitment to the constitutional right of the people of New Jersey to have representation from someone who actually lives within their district boundaries."
Legal sources say if Spadea's argument prevailed, Assemblyman Reed Gucsiora, Assemblyman Ralph Caputo - both of whom vowed to move once redistricting separated them from their old districts - would be unable to continue serving in the legislature because they have not lived for at least a year in their newly chosen towns.
Mennen’s lawyer Alan Zakin in response offered up Robertson v. Bartels, which anchored Lewis lawyer Bill Tambussi’s case for why his Democratic client should remain on the ballot, emphasizing the pre-eminence of the U.S. Constitution over the 1947 state Constitution.
Zakin bullet-pointed the argument, starting broadly with the 14h Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing voting as a fundamental right “which can only be restricted if the state has a compelling interest to do so.”
- Discriminating on the basis of legislative residency requirements impact on voters' rights by substantially limiting their choice of qualified candidates
- There is no reason to protect district lines that are arbitrary, when candidates outside of that district can have just as much, or greater, involvement in the community than those who have lived in the district longer
- Legislative residency requirement is not a restriction for statewide office, where non-residency would imply no familiarity with the community, this restriction “relates to officials elected from political subdivisions of much smaller geographical dimensions, the precise boundaries of which are subject to periodic revision.”
- These restrictions were found to fundamentally violate the 14 Amendment of the U.S. Constitution because they would restrict the opportunity for citizens to support a friend and neighbor who, in some cases, already represents them in elected office.
- An arbitrary political decision made by party bosses in Trenton... should not restrict a voter’s choice.
- It is against the federal constitution to prohibit a voter from weighing the length of a candidate’s time resident in an arbitrary district, versus their familiarity with the issues in the community, and their experience making contributions to the region.”
- Zakin and the GOP don’t see the irony of their party adopting Tambussi’s argument for their own ends in a different district. He says his crucial, differentiating point is that Lewis never adequately established himself as a resident of the state much less the district.
“The Court makes a huge distinction between district residency and state residency,” said Zakin. “Robertson v. Bartels held that the one-year requirement violated the U.S. Constitution where a candidate had been resident of a different district for a year, within the state of New Jersey. It did not speak to a legislative candidate running in New Jersey, like Carl Lewis, who was a resident of another state in the year prior to the election.
"Lewis lived 3,000 miles away in California, Mennen lives a footstep away from the district in Hunterdon County," Zakin added. "In fact, as an elected Hunterdon Freeholder, and former resident and elected official in Somerset, Mennen has intimate knowledge of the District and it's people, and they know him. The Court found that a state border is a fixed, historical and significant factor establishing residency, whereas a legislative district is an arbitrary and temporary marker of residency - which changes every ten years - a major significant and game-changing factor that Mr. Spadea chooses to ignore."
Spadea said the Mennen Team’s contortions landing them in proximity – in his view – to Lewis’s legal brains on the residency issue, amount to a joke.
“They’re being selective,” said the candidate. “Many Republicans find it offensive to think the rules don’t apply to us. There are two things in play for me: I’m going to show the committee members I am the more qualified candidate to represent the district, and I also meet the criteria to serve here. Many Republicans are as offended as I am by the outrageous backroom deals. We as Republicans have a special obligation to prove this is nation of rules, not men.”
Along with Mennen and Spadea, South Brunswick health board member John Saccenti is also vying for the Assembly seat formally occupied by Mr. Biondi.
