Nothing should delight the people of Glen Cove more than the announcement that Reginald Spinello is running for mayor on the Republican ticket (I'm an unregistered voter prepared to assist Mr. Spinello in any way possible).

I've known Reggie for about nine years, though our contacts have been limited to almost daily workouts at the local YMCA on Dosoris Lane.

In a nutshell, Reggie is a down-to-earth guy full of good will whose only aim in becoming mayor is to do right by his hometown and fellow citizens. Smart, mature and energetic, his immensely successful business career is proof positive that he has the goods to get things done in Glen Cove, important things that have been lagging for too long. Besides relating to people, he understands budgets, cash flow and the need to plan ahead. The bottom line is that he has all the credentials to be an outstanding chief executive.

Nor does it hurt that Reggie is Glen Cove born and bred, having lived here almost his entire life. There is nothing he doesn't know about our town, the people, institutions and history. Talk about making it in America: Reggie was born on Grove Street, located in the Orchard section of Glen Cove.

Every so often someone comes along with the stature that the job of mayor calls for. Reginald Spinello, I'm convinced, is such a man. Given the opportunity, he will allow Glen Cove to realize its full potential.

As I said at the outset, Reggie Spinello is good news for Glen Cove.

Edward A. Marinello