Beth Mason on March Madness

The March Madness mentioned in Beth Mason's latest email isn't the sound of her campaign imploding from the poor reception she has been getting at the 2nd Ward's brownstones or her latest dilemma in how to possibly distance herself from Mike Russo's implied corruption based on recent revelations in the book the Jersey Sting. No this has to do with Beth's alma mater VCU that has made it into the final four for the first time. Maybe VCU might enjoy a Cinderalla story but I have a feeling based on feedback I am hearing the glass slipper might not fit her this time around. Just another reason to root for Butler this weekend.

Dear Friend,

March Madness is upon us and I am very excited to watch the NCAA Final Four this weekend. On Saturday my alma mater, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), will meet Butler. The winner advances to the National Championship game.

Like many residents I have great college memories, but one especially stands out. It was the first day of school at 8AM in English class where I met my husband, Ricky, for the first time. Towards the end of the semester we began dating and have been together ever since.

When VCU was given a spot in the National Tournament the cynics and doubters said they didn’t belong. But now VCU’s Cinderella run for the ages continues to captivate the nation. This team is an incredible inspiration for anyone who has ever been told their dreams are too big. VCU is showing the entire country what I learned there 25 years ago, all dreams, no matter how big, are possible.

VCU’s season reminds me of when I first became involved in civic life here in Hoboken. My dream was for a more open, transparent, and inclusive government for all the people of Hoboken. To help create a Hoboken that was an even better place to live and raise a family. Many cynics and doubters said there was no way to open up the doors of government. They said the political machine was too strong and the odds were just too much to overcome.

But together we have done it. From easier access to government documents and records that show how City Hall is spending our money, to new parks, and the biggest road resurfacing project in Hoboken’s history, we have stood up for good government and the rights of everyday people. I am looking forward to the next chapter in our own Cinderella story that we are writing right here in the 2nd Ward of the Mile Square City. The chapter where we cut the inflated tax rate and return Hoboken’s $25 million surplus in the form of property tax relief.

I look forward to continuing to work together and to VCU continuing to defy the odds in route to their first ever national championship. GO RAMS!

Below is the VCU video: ◦

Beth Mason on March Madness