MURFREESBORO – Knowledge is the most powerful tool in the world.

Those seeking to learn more about the candidates seeking election to the Hertford County Board of Education are urged to attend a political forum scheduled for 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26 in Vaughan Auditorium at Robert Marks Hall on the campus of Chowan University.

The forum is hosted by the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald.

Seven candidates n including incumbent School Board members Ron Baker, John Horton and Rev. Patrick Young n are seeking one of the three seats up for grabs during the Nov. 7 election. Political newcomers Dennis Deloatch, Carolyn Mitchell Vaughan, Marcus Williams and Susan Williams round out the field of candidates.

Those attending the forum will be asked, but not required, to write their questions and submit them to a News-Herald staff member. Those questions will be asked, as time permits, by a moderator.

Each candidate will be allowed a three-minute opening statement followed by the question and answer period. Registered voters can benefit from this forum by learning where the candidates stand on issues facing public education.

Also, a member of the Hertford County Board of Elections will be present to demonstrate the method of voting used in the county as well as answer any questions concerning the process.

If you are unable to attend, but would like to submit a question, send it via e-mail to: my2cents@r-cnews.com or drop it off at the R-C News-Herald office (the corner of Main Street and Catherine Creek Road in downtown Ahoskie) before 4 p.m. on Oct. 26. Questions can be directed to a particular candidate (you must specify) or asked of all candidates.