Vote for Delgado, Tupe, Shah and budget

The election process can create a feeling of powerlessness in individuals - the sentiment being that my one vote does not count. Given the past two presidential elections, it is easy to understand such a mindset. However, we do have a powerful vote to cast every April. We vote on who will guide our schools for the next three years and our vote is one in 3,000, not one in millions. Your vote always matters and in the school board and budget elections, your vote is quite significant.

This April we have a large pool of good candidates to choose from and three who stand above the rest. When considering the impact they will have on the direction of our schools, the curriculum, future budgets and policy, Harry Delgado, Anna Tupe and Mahesh "Mac" Shah bring expertise, passion and commitment to the position.

Harry Delgado has proven his leadership abilities and commitment to our children and township. He has risen to positions of leadership in his professional life, just recently promoted to Captain of the South Brunswick Police Department. He led the South Brunswick Board of Education as president for three years and has held numerous positions of leadership with the New Jersey School Board Association. Harry's knowledge and experience make him stand above the rest when weighing the need for our children to have a challenging curriculum taught by excellent teachers delivered in a safe environment.

Anna Tupe has dedicated her career to children as a school nurse. She first worked as a school nurse for children with special needs and now works for the North Brunswick Board of Education. Her knowledge of the unique needs of children who face special challenges makes her invaluable to the board. Her devotion to children is apparent in South Brunswick - Anna works on board committees, school fundraisers, PTA/O functions, the women's leadership conference - Anna walks the talk, a rare characteristic among many elected officials. By immersing herself into the fabric of South Brunswick's schools, Anna has a unique insight into the issues at each individual school building.

Mahesh "Mac" Shah moved to South Brunswick and rather than settle into his new community and search for how it could serve him, he rolled up his sleeves and began serving his community. His dedication to decision making that reflects the community's desires is apparent when you hear him speak about the issues he is asked to cast votes on as a South Brunswick Planning Board member. Raising two children - one who has graduated from South Brunswick public schools - Mac understands the need for maintaining a high quality of education. He will bring this commitment and passion to the Board of Education.

On April 17 I ask you to join me in supporting Harry, Anna and Mahesh and to support the budget.

Carole O'Brien

Monmouth Junction section

of South Brunswick