Freeholder candidate gets a Giant boost
Published October 3rd, 2006 in The Herald NewsBy: Paul Brubaker
PATERSON -- Passaic County Democratic freeholder candidate Tahesha Way might be tempted to say she is running with the "Big Blue" party after members of the New York Giants came out in support of her campaign on Monday. There was little talk about Passaic County budget matters -- or the Giants' 1-2 record, for that matter -- at The Brownstone catering hall, where hundreds huddled for the $125-a-plate fete. For $300, attendees got to meet the football stars, many of whom are New Jersey residents.
For hours, Giants fans young and old approached the likes of Howard Cross, Brandon Short and Tyrone Williams with footballs, jerseys and other Giants memorabilia for signing.
Tiki Barber, the Giants' star running back, generated the most excitement. He was surrounded by adoring fans, including Passaic County Clerk Karen Brown and Assemblywoman Nellie Pou, D-Paterson.
Barber said he came to the event to support Tahesha and Charles Way, whom he considers to be as close as family.
When asked if he would ever enter politics, Barber greeted the thought with his trademark smile.
"One of these years, maybe," Barber said. "It's still significantly down the line."
For Way, hanging with many of the players has been a family affair since her husband, Charles, played fullback for the team in the late 1990s. Charles Way now works as the team's director of player development.
And the 34-year-old Wayne resident's freeholder campaign is also buoyed by the team's front office.
"The Giants are part of the fabric of this community, and we certainly support those in our organization and their families when they strive to become vital contributors to the communities in which they live," said Pat Hanlon, vice president of communications, in an e-mail statement to the Herald News. "Public service is a noble way in which to contribute."
The event on Monday was the first major fundraiser for Way's first political campaign. Way was appointed to the Board of Freeholders in June to complete Lois Cuccinello's term, and recently the state Senate approved her appointment to Cuccinello's seat on the Highlands Council, which is aimed at protecting the region where most of the state draws its drinking water.
Way's freeholder candidacy recalls the last time the Giants were associated with local politics. All-Pro defensive end Michael Strahan announced in 2004 his candidacy for a seat on the Montclair Township Council. Strahan later dropped out of the nonpartisan race.
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