Romano gets more police backing in Vineland mayor's race

VINELAND - Fighting in the Republican mayoral primary, RobertVineland mayoral candidate Robert Romano Romano today rolled out the endorsement of the Vineland Superior Officers Association, which lauded the police lieutenant as an "experienced and natural leader."

"Bob Romano has always been a man of integrity," said association president Sgt. Lenny Wolf. "He is called upon every day to make tough decisions... We are proud to support him for our next mayor."

In accepting the support of an organization that represents 30 current Vineland police lieutenants and sergeants, Romano said, "This endorsement is a huge honor for me. The Superior Officers Association represents some of the best leaders in law enforcement, and I am pleased to have their backing as I work to restore honesty and integrity in City Hall.

A 34-year veteran of the Vineland Police Department, Romano, is running against two-term incumbent Mayor Perry Barse and retired schools administrator Nick Girone.

"The endorsement is no surprise," said Barse. "He's a long-time member of the police department. I certainly understand it. In 2004, I received a strong endorsement from the PBA."

Romano today also announced the endorsement of the South Jersey chapter of the Iron Pigs Motorcycle Club, which represents 15 full-time or retired South Jersey law enforcement officers and fire fighters who own American-made V-twin motorcycles.