Run for the Roses

Well, it is official. I am running for the Jackson Township NJ Town Council. It is quite an interesting race. When I was first asked to run, I was stunned. I know I chaired the Jackson Walks Committee for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer organization which was a wonderful venture for Jackson (that's why there is so much pink on this page). But still... ME? For Council?

I certainly have had strong opinions about our current Mayor and Council. I have seen them in action, and I think they have made some incredibly bad decisions in the last year and a half since they've been in existence. And, they wouldn't back down...no matter what the public said. Now, election year 2008, they are suddenly listening to us. In all the years I was on the Merrick School Board, I was never too arrogant to say I made a mistake. We are human after all, and humans make bad decisions sometimes. After 23 years on that board, I swore I would never get so deeply involved again. But here I am.

I ask myself what I bring to the table. I know I am very active in Westlake, my home for the past seven years. I also believe we need a senior viewpoint on the council. We have been the cash cow for way too long, and it's time we had a voice in what goes on. I hope I can be that voice. However, I am also aware that this township consists of many communities...parents, young children, students, people with no children, and so many others. We all have one goal in common...to make Jackson a great place to live while getting the best bang for our buck. I am a soccer Grandma. I know the needs of young people, and I will try to balance and prioritize. I am FOR a senior viewpoint, but not ONLY for a senior viewpoint.

The campaign has been very interesting so far. I have met some wonderful people. I imagine life will get more hectic as the campaign gets heated, but that's what you sign on for when you become a candidate. My running mates are outstanding men who have been very active in Jackson over the years. Former Mayor Mike Kafton and Mike Reina are my go-to guys and now my good friends . I call us "Mike, Mike and the Mad Dog," clearly stolen from the radio show. I only hope I can hold up my end of the bargain. I certainly am independent, and nobody can say I am a rubber stamp.

I know this is a huge undertaking, and win or lose, I will never forget the experience.