To the editor,

If the past two years have taught us anything, it has taught us all that as citizens we need to be involved in our own government. Too many times we stand aside and let others do it for us. Unfortunately the longer we do that, the farther those in government get from us citizens. They start to push agendas that don’t jive with what we see as important. Our values stop being represented.

I applaud all of those regular people – our friends, neighbors, and co-workers who are stepping outside of their comfort zone to throw their hat into the ring of our local government. One of those is someone who I have gotten the chance to know and whose passion for truly representing the views of the community I applaud. That is Martin Kretzmann. Martin is running for Pierce County Supervisor representing district 8 in the April 5 election. In getting to know Martin and his family, they are passionate about supporting our rights, standing up against government over-reach, and truly representing the community. He is an advocate for our individual freedoms – whether that be in in our rights of property ownership, medical choices, speech, or the like. He is a strong family man. What most impresses me about Martin is that he is going into this without an agenda. His objective is to listen and learn so that he will do the best job possible for us. He is setting up listening sessions throughout the area ahead of the election- go talk to him! He wants to see our Pierce County supervisors represent us accurately in Pierce County. It is time to get new blood on the board. Martin represents that.

All residents of Pierce County, especially those in District 8, I encourage you to visit www.Kretzmannfor8.com and see for yourself how many similarities you have with my choice for Pierce County Supervisor – Martin Kretzmann. Then be sure to vote this spring on April 5.

Michael Van Handel

River Falls

Join RF School District listening sessions

To the editor,

The School District of River Falls is in the process of developing a new strategic plan for the next five years. Our district is among the very best in the state, and is built upon a rich tradition of strong community support and commitment.

To gather community thoughts and ideas that will help us identify our strategic priorities, we are holding three “listening sessions”: March 1, 6 p.m.: RFHS Media Center (818 Cemetery Road); March 7, noon: District Office (852 E. Division St.), and March 8, 6 p.m.: RFHS Media Center (818 Cemetery Road).

These listening sessions are an opportunity to create a shared vision into the future. We’ll also be gathering feedback through community, staff, and student surveys in late March.

I personally would like to extend the invitation to all community members to join me at a listening session and help create a shared vision for the future for the School District of River Falls.

Jamie Benson

River Falls School District Superintendent