A Community's "Source" of Controversy
A Colts Neck brewery has drawn the ire of locals with their political activity that others say is unnecessary or misinformed.
Source Brewery in Colts Neck entered the political fray when its owner appeared in a digital ad with Senator Vin Gopal (11th) and oft-forgotten Margie Donlon and Luanne Peterpaul. Standing next to them is Source owner Phillip Petracca, lauding their “sensible legislation” and “bipartisan” approach. In what can only be described as socially awkward and forced, Petracca lent Source’s celebrity to support Gopal’s ticket.
Per Petracca: “it’s really a dream to have representation that actually cares about small business.” The question is: does Source understand the risks associated with mixing business and politics?
Source Brewery opened in 2019 and has quickly become a staple in Colts Neck, making its way into all local restaurants. Known for being family and dog friendly, Source has quickly become a destinations for beer lovers in Monmouth County.
Petracca, however, may risk Source’s status as a community landmark after recent Facebook comments directed at the Colts Neck Republican Committee.
Citing himself as registered Republican, Petracca suggested that the Colts Neck Republican Committee “change [their] name, because [they] sure as hell don’t represent [him].”
The Colts Neck Republican Committee responded saying Petracca was “acting like some unbiased Colts Neck Republican citizen….upset about the truth of Vin Gopal’s record for our families.” Gopal is locked in a contentious election against political newcomer Steve Dnistrian hot on the heels of a major upset victory.
Senator Gopal has come under fire for his role in sponsoring the adoption of the ghastly sex-ed curriculum, and for calling the concerns of parents “made up”.
Whether Petracca took Gopal and his brand of politics into account when he made the endorsement is unknown, however most members of the Colts Neck community feel that this was not the best play for Source.
When interviewing Colts Neck residents about Source’s endorsement, one woman said “they can support whoever they want, but they need to understand that some people may feel differently and take their money elsewhere.” A self-described former “political agnostic” said that things changed once “democrats started going after our kids.”
“How can any business support someone like Gopal,” she lamented. “He’s the source of all of this here. “Did [Petracca] not think of what this is saying to Colts Neck families?”
One gentleman said that it was a “shame” that a place that should be “devoid of politics and focused on bring the community together” has decided to enter the political fray. Another, a registered Democrat, did not care about Petracca’s Facebook comments when shown, but did say that “they’re going the way of Bud Light.”
Citing the marketing campaign between Anheuser-Busch and transgender celebrity Dylan Mulvaney the gentleman said that “they should expect some backlash,” but “it’s their own damn fault for bringing it on themselves.”
Petracca could not be reached for comment despite multiple attempts by CJN.
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Disclosure: those interviewed asked to stay anonymous. CJN is a staunch defender of its sources.