To the Editor: In Martin O’Shea’s letter about the WallischProperty (which appeared in another paper), he has chosen to remind us of the mistakes of former Township Attorney Martin Murphy. If we are to remember Martin Murphy, let us do so fairly. Martin Murphy lived all his life in West Milford. Like Lou Wallish, he loved West Milford. When Lou Wallisch resigned as township attorney, Martin Murphy took his place. Lou Wallischbecame Martin’s mentor in a relationship that can only be described as one between a father and a son that Lou never had. Martin foolishly chose to be involved in town politics while serving as town attorney. For this he became an easy target, and became the most abused and maligned individual ever to live in West Milford. Because I took an interest in politics since the mid 60s I have listened very carefully to the attacks and allegations lodged against him. Never have I found any against his character or personal integrity of any substance. Did I agree with his politics? Certainly not, because like too many politicians he held this silly notion that we can solve all our problems through government. Did I respect him? Yes, his motives were sincere and in the best interests of the community. After decades of being the recipient of deceptive malignance and abuse, Martin Murphy did err. His judgment became clouded between his love for Lou Wallischand his love for West Milford while township attorney. Martin Murphy has now left the town he has lived in all his life, his home. Never in all of West Milford’s history has anyone been punished so much for so little. The story of Martin Murphy is salient to the many stories of individuals who have left the political scene or chosen not to be involved at all because of the fruitless attacks against one’s person. When does it end? Soon I will be writing an article with some ideas to save tax dollars and make us a community again. Some of my ideas are about the Wallischproperty. These ideas differ from Martin O’Shea’s views. I hope he will be persuaded to embrace mine. If not, I invite Martin O’Shea to a public debate of those differences. The high school debating team can set the rules. John Aiello West Milford