Due to the heavy volume of election-related letters, the Tribune is publishing some letters online only.

Leave the cross alone
By CHAD BURKE | U.S. Navy, Virginia

I am currently in the Navy stationed in Virginia. I grew up in Holmen and I was never religious by choice. The cross/star never made me feel uneasy, I like it up there. I’d like to know why Eric Barnes moved to Holmen if he didn’t like our symbols around town.

I find it insulting having someone move into my hometown and demand things be changed or removed. I say let the town decide if it stays or goes? If it comes to that here’s a vote for it to stay. I see “Star Hill” as a guiding light when I come home. I want to see it there and if I have kids they should be able to see it in the future as well. Mr. Barnes picked the wrong town to try and move in and make everything to his liking that’s not how it works in my book.

Beware tyranny of the minority

By ANTHONY HORVATH | Holmen, Wis.

It is not every day that Holmen has the opportunity to have an impact on the affairs of the entire nation. The decision to sell off the land that the cross on Star Hill stands on in order to avoid controversy is understandable in light of what happened in La Crosse.

However, is Eric Barnes happy with transferring it to private property? No. We might legitimately wonder if the only thing that would satisfy those with his views is a complete purge, public and private. Where would the “Freedom from Religion Foundation” stop? Where would Richard Dawkins, who believes teaching some religious doctrines is child abuse stop?

In light of the gulags, the concentration camps, the re-education camps, etc, the loving thing might be to take a stand. I know that there is an overwhelming urge to “preserve the peace” at all costs. History shows us that this approach could very well lead to our very own Kristallnacht. If it goes that far it is too late.

As citizens, not just as Christians, we should be concerned if a minority can inflict on the majority their own narrow view on what constitutes the ‘establishment of religion.’ If Eric Barnes should like to call for a referendum on the cross, I would support him. Put the matter before the people. Hear the arguments. Have the discussion. Have a vote. That is healthy conflict resolution.

The village should scrap its plan to sell the property. The Supreme Court has yet to issue a clear ruling that balances both the establishment clause with the free exercise clause. We could give them an opportunity to do just. If Holmen doesn’t face this issue communities around the country will continue to be subject to the “tyranny of the minority.”

You may contact me at sntjohnny@sntjohnny.com.

Recognize the love of Jesus

By KARLA MULLER | La Crosse

Dear Eric Barnes: I want to thank you for ’drawing a line in the sand’, so to speak! Ah yes, don’t I who say that I believe in Jesus Christ, the One who is love itself, need to learn how to express that love in all situations? (No, I’m not there yet, but a work in progress.) So, I have been asking and praying, Lord, how can I best show Your Love to Mr. Barnes? I believe God is relentlessly kind and full of mercy.

And I admit, at first, I was not thinking any loving thoughts about you, because I personally don’t believe this has anything to do with the smoke and mirrors of separation of church and state jargon. This morning when I was praying for you, my heart actually hurt for you, because I realized you don’t know the love of Jesus Christ for you and it may very well have had something to do with being hurt by a Christian, and if that’s the case, I apologize and ask that you forgive us.

While I don’t know all the circumstances that led to this situation, I know that it gives me an opportunity to pray for you and it stirs up passion in me for Jesus even more! To me, the symbols are reminders of the love of Jesus Christ for all mankind in that he gave the ultimate sacrifice and rose again to redeem a price we couldn’t pay. He did it because of his great love for you and me, and I pray we will really know that love.

Christians and sinners

By FAY PEASLEE | Onalaska, Wis.

In his letter to the editor dated Feb. 21, the Rev. Kent Meyers thought he was defending Christianity by saying, “there are other kinds of Christians in the world.” He was showing hostility toward the more orthodox, conservative church bodies. Being a man of the the cloth he should be aware there is only one kind of Christianity. The true Church is invisible. He who believes that Christ came into the world to save sinners, and has God given faith that Christ died for him, belongs to this invisible Church.

Christ has those who love Him in every denomination where this truth is promoted. Belonging to a Christian denomination does not make us members of Christ’s Church. The Christian Church is invisible and only those are members who love the Savior and have faith he is included in Christ’s atoning death on the cross. Christians are found in every denomination.

Keep the crosses where they are

By CAROL WATESKI | La Crosse

Letter after letter has been written about the cross in Holmen, the Ten Commandments, etc. I don’t have a problem with atheists, I hope they don’t have a problem with me believing in God.

The atheists kept saying there can’t be symbols or words that are part of someone’s religion on government property. Has anyone read the Constitution of the United States and the first amendment?

It reads: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. I’d like to know where this amendment says there can not be a cross or Ten Commandments on state or federal property.

It simply say that government can not interfere with anyone’s religion. Try and remove the crosses from Arlington National Cemetery and see what happens! Our founding fathers were very wise men.

Join in on the Day of Silence

By TONYA LaSARGE | La Crescent Minn.

I have lived in the La Crosse area my whole life and love this area. I feel that everyone should be treated the same, no matter their race, age, gender or sexual orientation. La Crosse has come a long way, but still has so much more to learn and accept.

I wish everyone could look at it this way, would you like people looking down on you or talking bad about you for any little difference you have? Would you like to be shunned in society because of a lisp? or you limp? or you believe or don’t believe in God? Why can’t everyone see that people are people, we all have feelings and we all love. Why should one be treated differently because of their sexual orientation? Or their gender, race or age for that matter.

Once we all realize that people in the LGBT community are not doing anything to hurt you or put you down if you are not a member of the LGBT community; this area will be an even great place to live. Everyone knows someone who is lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgender; they might not even know it. Your neighbor, your check out person at the grocery store, your librarian or pizza delivery person, your son or daughter, your aunt or uncle.

Please think of that and join us in the day of silence on April 25, even if from your own home.

Let kids be kids

By GAIL BLUM | La Crosse

That Jesus showed compassion to the oppressed, as Jerilyn Dinsmoor said, is undeniable. However, to say that we don’t know what he thought about homosexuality is misguided. Jesus was there at the creation of the earth, when Adam and Eve were brought together, and when the world was destroyed by a flood.

Why did God “start all over” with a flood? Because He saw “that every intention of the thoughts of his (man’s) heart was only evil continually.” Records show that they were marrying any “body” they wanted, male, female, or beast. Jesus said, “As were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.” This clearly shows what Jesus thinks of homosexuality.

Homosexuality is not inborn as is the color of one’s skin, or whether one is male or female. Studies show most homosexuals have been sexually molested at a young age. Also, it is not uncommon to have a fleeting thought about someone of the same sex.

If we allowed our children to remain pure and innocent at a young age, they wouldn’t even need to consider whether they are homosexual. Most college freshmen struggle to pick a major. How are teens supposed to decide whether they are homosexual or not in high school?

Let’s let children be children and not worry about sex until they are old enough to marry. Then they are mature enough to realize how God created them. We don’t need to confuse our teenagers anymore than they are.

Recruiting homosexuals

By RON KNAPPEN | Galesville, Wis.

It appears that Mr. Roosenbeek believes that special attention should be given to two or three Holmen students who may be LGBT. But how about other truly immutable characteristics such as being short, big ears and other “differences?” Any sort of bullying regardless who the object is should be constantly addressed at home and school.

There have been many murders in our schools; few were gender-related. Radicals are now saying that Lawrence King’s murder is more important than others and are using this incident to promote special recognition, approval and thus endorsement to the gay life style.

More violence is between and among gays than conflicts between straights and gays.

The sad statistics Mr. Roosenbeek lists are all the more reason for caring loving parents to make attempts to help their youngster seek help to exit same-sex attraction.

Mr. Rosenbeek is totally incorrect in asserting that LGBT is unchangeable. You may connect to tens of thousands of ex-gays through Exodus International (www.exodus-international.org 888-264-0877) and (www.americansfortruth.org).

Wouldn’t it be more constructive to embrace the truth about this self-destructive life-style than to induce recruitment and teach our children destructive values?

Yes, Jerilyn Dinsmoor, we do know what Jesus thought about homosexuality because he is God and His entire Word reflects His thinking on this. He specifically addresses it when He tells about Sodom, in Leviticus, Corinthians 6:9-11 and Romans 1:18-32. It is very plain that when Jesus spoke about joining together with a wife, He didn’t mean a same-sex relationship.

Secularist rights eroded

By PHILLIP BERRY | La Crosse

This letter is in response to Jay Lyngaas’ opinion on secularists. The Freedom From Religion campaign was created to aid in the prevention of unconstitutional acts made by local, state, and federal governments.

The founding fathers wrote the Constitution with the idea of secularism, and since then, people with the agenda of infiltrating the government with Christianity have been slowly eradicating non-Christian’s rights.

You state that you feel discriminated against by secularists...if by that you mean that “your” religious rhetoric is being removed from public land, then I am sorry. I am sorry that the United States’ constitution doesn’t allow for forcing all taxpayers to pay for something they don’t agree with.

Until “In God We Trust” is removed from money, “One Nation Under God” is removed from the pledge, and the Ten Commandments is removed from public offices, secularists everywhere are suffering from that self imposed unconstitutional rhetoric.

Thomas Jefferson said it best when he said, “The day will come when the mystical generation of Jesus, by the Supreme Being as his father, in the womb of a virgin, will be classed with the fable of the generation of Minerva in the brain of Jupiter.”

Freedom to choose is yours to make

By AARON MILLER | La Crosse

I believe the concept of 'separation of church and state' is to prevent public officials and people in power from rewarding and/or punishing citizens based on religious views and practices.

I do not believe the concept was created to insist on the systematic removal of every religious icon remotely associated with public land or our government.

Our government is made up of people. Many of them believe in God. Please stop dehumanizing the government by crying out for symbols of faith to be abolished.

Freedom to choose your beliefs is yours, thankfully. A cross or a monument does not change that.

Thanks from Boys & Girls Club

By KEVIN JOHNSTON | La Crosse

It all started in 1860, when three women in Hartford, Conn., decided to take in some “street urchins” — undernourished, dirty-faced young boys with little more than ragged clothes on their backs, the hard-luck, forgotten kids of the Industrial Revolution.

They didn’t know it then, but these caring ladies were the planting seeds of what would become a true American success story. Their idea took root as Boys’ Clubs, which soon began to sprout throughout New England and eventually across the nation.

By 1906, 53 independent Clubs were operating. The local leaders decided a national federation was needed to further the important mission of reaching out to children in need. They established the Federated Boys’ Clubs, which later became Boys’ Clubs of America.

Fast forward to 2008. Today, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse, is a network of 4,000 locations around the nation and on U.S. military bases here and abroad. It is a remarkable tale that truly reflects the very story of America through the 20th century.

Throughout this year, we will tell that story — the lives changed and saved, the communities turned around, the kids who conquered overwhelming odds to succeed, the caring individuals and supporters who make it all possible.

As we celebrate Boys & Girls Club Week at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse, we pause to thank the many caring people who make our mission a reality:

The dedicated Club professionals who devote their lives to guiding our young people every day.

The countless, generous individuals — Club board volunteers and donors — who support our work through their selfless commitment of time, talent and treasure.

The caring corporations, foundations and government leaders who actively partner with us to reach unserved communities that need the benefits of a Boys & Girls Club.

And the families and parents who, every day, entrust to us America’s most precious natural resources: our young people.

We can’t wait to begin our second century of providing hope and opportunity, being the positive place for some 4.6 million kids in some 4,000 Clubs, and in doing so, changing lives and changing America.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse hope you will join us in celebrating Boys & Girls Club Week, a week of hope and opportunity for the entire community.

Thank you for making it possible.

Kevin Johnston is executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse.

Vote ‘yes’ for La Crosse schools

By DICK SWANTZ | La Crosse

During the 21 years I served as school superintendent, I dealt with hundreds of inquiries from parents considering a move to our community. They were very concerned about things such as teaching and instructional program, class size and co-curricular offerings. All of these quality measures are now in jeopardy.

The current board and administration have been as creative and resourceful as possible to preserve these quality programs, but the results of Wisconsin’s revenue cap legislation makes it impossible to continue these answers. Indeed, this is why since 2005 the 423 school districts in Wisconsin have placed 365 referendum questions on the ballot. This spring, 48 will be asking their communities for approval to continue their programs.

Please think hard and long before you vote on April 1. You will be fashioning the condition of our schools and community for years to come. Please vote “yes” to both questions.

Impressed with Bob Muth

By KAREN KROLL | Onalaska, Wis.

I am impressed with Bob Muth, candidate for mayor of Onalaska.

As an individual for whom public libraries have always been important, I am impressed with Bob’s open, positive attitude regarding Onalaska’s library. Bob is very pro-library, and has stated on numerous occasions that a community is often judged by its library. This kind of pro-active, enlightened view is an attribute that I feel we want in our leaders.

I remember when Bob was a police officer, he had asked the Onalaska library if he could read to the kids at storytime. He thought it would be great to be known as the “storytime cop,” both because he wanted kids to know they could trust and befriend officers of the law, but also because he believed the library was a force for positive change in any community.

Bob Muth’s warmth, caring and open-minded nature as well as his intelligence, life experience and diplomatic skills would make him a wonderful mayor for the city of Onalaska.

Back Johnson for County Board

By RALPH and HELEN BUEHLER | La Crosse

We are writing this letter of support for Tara Johnson, 18th District. Tara has served this district with compassion and fiscal responsibility. She is tireless in her efforts to improve the lives of all our citizens, especially those living with mental illness.

Please vote for Tara Johnson, 18th District, on April 1.

Mike Giese is the best choice

By DICK and JULIE McGARRY | Onalaska, Wis.

We have lived in Onalaska for more than 30 years and have often been in contact with the mayor and council members regarding city planning, development, and zoning issues over this period of time.

Mike Giese is one of the council members we have talked to regarding such issues. We are impressed with his willingness to listen to our questions and concerns.

He also asks questions to be sure a concern is clearly understood. He then takes the time to research by checking into city ordinances, state statutes, and speaking to people on both sides of the issue.

We have also been impressed with Mike’s success in both private and public endeavors.

Tovsen seeks your vote

By TARI TOVSEN | La Crosse

I am seeking support for County Board Supervisor (District 17).

I love La Crosse and the surrounding area. I’ve lived here all my life. I am concerned about the economic growth in our area, and want a safer and healthier lifestyle in our communities.

The Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO Labor Council has voted unanimously to give me full support and its endorsement for the upcoming election. I also received a letter from the council (American Federation of State County Municipal Employees) in Madison notifying me of its full endorsement.

If elected, I will bring a hard-work ethic, do my homework, and listen to my constituents in order to give you the best representation I can. Now is the time for a fresh new start. I look forward to your vote.

Gebhart is best in 19th

By MARY PERSHING | La Crosse

I am writing to support Dave Gebhart in the upcoming election for the La Crosse County Board. Having worked with Dave in various community volunteer organizations including the Soccer Club and Boy Scouts, I believe he has the qualities needed to represent the citizens of the 19th District in a fair, ethical and honest manner.

Dave’s energy, enthusiasm, and drive along with his commitment to work collaboratively with all members of the County Board and to attend meetings will give the residents of District 19 the representation they deserve.

Back Flood and Brockmiller

By TERRY HICKS | La Crosse

Bill Brockmiller is the labor market analyst for this segment of Wisconsin. He would thereby bring a wealth of workplace information to the La Crosse County Board when he is elected as a representative of the 13th District.

Bill is a dedicated proponent of fair play for all in the world of work. He is well known in the labor community and is respected for his dedication and enthusiasm which he brings to anything he becomes involved in.

Bridget Flood is another excellent candidate for the position of county supervisor. Her record of volunteerism, as well as her work history as a La Crosse County employee, shows her to be a reliable and well qualified person to serve the members of the 12th District on the county board.

At a time when household budgets are being stretched to the breaking point, her calm decision-making on behalf of her constituents would be just the medicine needed.

Johnson for County Board

By DONALD FRANK | La Crosse

During Tara Johnson’s tenure on the County Board she has been both a leader and strong team player. In the years she has served, the County Board has taken significant steps to provide important innovative services to the county.

The county has maintained a low tax rate while providing high quality services. It has provided county residents a safe method of disposal for hazardous waste. It was committed to being an eco-municipality, with a focus on green and sustainable practices that are cost effective, good for our citizens, and kind to the planet.

It has approved a sound long-range plan for growth, and implemented a Justice Sanctions program that provides treatment rather than incarceration for nonviolent offenders.

Please re-elect Tara Johnson to the La Crosse County Board.

Support Huesmann

By M. BRYAN TAYLOR and TAMMY WEMETTE | Holmen, Wis.

All the qualities we have observed in Mark Huesmann command our support to his candidacy for 27th District representative of the La Crosse County Board of Supervisors.

We would like to say that we have known Mark for several years both as a citizen soldier and as businessman. In our experiences with Mark we have found his judgment and decision making to be well grounded and sound.

We have found Mark to be a civic minded, local business owner interested in the welfare our community and the surrounding communities within the county.

Support school district

By BARBARA MORRISON | La Crosse

As a mother of two La Crosse School District children, I attend many school board functions and daily read about education. As an informed parent, I strongly support the La Crosse School District referendums. Not passing both of these referendums will have a severe negative impact on the education our children will receive.

The children who will be most affected if these referendums do not pass are those children who will be literally saving our lives someday. School districts are too heavily burdened with federal and state mandates that distract the district from providing our children with the most appropriate education.

Parents, grandparents and citizens — we are the protectors of our children. Please join with me in voting “yes” to the La Crosse School District referendums on April 1.

Hancock, Berge for Holmen schools

By LLOYD DRESEN | Holmen, Wis.

I encourage voters in the Holmen School District to re-elect Cheryl Hancock and Dardy Berge for school board. I have known both candidates for many years and know each of them as hardworking and prepared, willing to do the research necessary to make the best decisions possible.

As a retired person, I understand the struggle many have to get by on fixed incomes but I also have had the pleasure of having children graduate from the district and I appreciate Cheryl’s and Dardy’s willingness to make tough decisions balancing students’ interests with taxpayers needs. Please join me in voting for Hancock and Berge on April 1.

Back Kinsman for District 26

By STAN HAUSER | Onalaska, Wis.

I would like to encourage voters of District 26 to vote for James Kinsman for the La Crosse County Board. James would be an independent voice on the board representing all of his constituents instead of a chosen few. James is a military veteran and holds our liberties sacred.

He is committed to improving county and town relations. James is concerned with the internal politics being played at the county level. He would work to lessen that effect. County government should be reflective of the needs, wants and concerns of local citizens. It is very apparent that this is not the attitude of our incumbent. Please vote for James Kinsman on April l.

Stan Hauser is chairman of the town of Onalaska.

Support Muth for mayor

By CONNIE MUTH | Onalaska, Wis.

Many people have expressed on these pages all the positive qualities regarding Bob Muth, candidate for mayor of Onalaska.

I’m here to tell you they are right. We’ve been married nearly 30 years and I can vouch for those assets. So, short and simple, if you want honesty, fairness and an open mind and ear, that’s Bob! He’s a person with leadership and a great people person. Please vote for Bob Muth on April 1.

Muth is best for Onalaska

By CHARLOTTE FERNHOLZ | Onalaska, Wis.

Bob and Connie Muth and I were involved with numerous activities at St. Patrick’s Church during the past year — absolutely “great souls who gave of themselves wholeheartedly.” Bob would always go above and beyond the call for “active duty” service!

I encourage all family, friends, acquaintances and those in Onalaska I haven’t as yet met to vote for Bob Muth for mayor of Onalaska.

Jim Moe for County Board

By DUANE MOORE | La Crosse

James Moe, a former La Crosse County Board member, is seeking election in April. I feel it’s important that voters know more about the names on the ballot.

Jim is a lifelong resident of La Crosse and a graduate of Logan High and DeVry Technical Institute, Chicago. He and his wife, Marge, live on La Crosse’s North Side. He has always been involved in the community with a long list of volunteer and civic contributions.

Jim has the vision to see what could be. He stands up for what he believes. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jim on many projects for which he gave full effort and dedication. I hope this may help inform voters about the qualifications of James Moe, candidate for La Crosse County Board.

Back Keil in District 19

By TODD YOUNG | Onalaska, Wis.

If we are going to accomplish business on the County Board, it is necessary to have an individual who has the proven experience to help achieve those goals. Robert Keil, the incumbent for District 19, has the qualifications for the job. He has been involved in local government in the community for more than 30 years and can relate to issues past and present.

I have had personal experience in working with Robert Keil, and he has taken my issue to resolution. As a retired farmer, he is a hard worker, and will continue to listen and take our concerns to the county level for problem-solving. Thank you, Robert, for a job well done these past two years. You are truly a concerned citizen. I want you working for me.

Rudolph for school board

By KEN BARRETT | La Crosse

I know that many citizens have chosen sides in the upcoming election with support for and against the school district’s referendums. Dave Rudolph has stated concerns over some issues and the timing of these items. I’ve known Dave Rudolph as a teaching professional, as a hard-nose representative for his peers, and as a man where family always comes first.

Dave Rudolph understands the need to show concern for those on fixed incomes. It seems to me that our choices for the three school board positions are three incumbents who have the same agenda and Dave Rudolph, who is willing to look at alternatives. Since two of those three incumbents will automatically return to their seats, I urge all citizens to cast a single vote for Dave Rudolph in the coming election.

Bob Keil is a hard worker

By CAROL BROWN | La Crosse

Robert Keil is a lifelong resident of La Crosse and Medary township. He has always been interested in politics. Now, as a retired dairy farmer, he has the time and energy to serve the people and make responsible decisions to help make La Crosse County a great place to live.

A hard worker all his life, he is a committed and honest person who cares deeply about the community. He is a good listener and will work hard for you to ensure your concerns are addressed, and make our county a great place to live.

Vote for Bob Keil for La Crosse County Board, District 19. He is dependable and experienced.

Keil is well grounded

By DALE and MARILYN TYLKA | La Crosse

Bob Keil brings integrity and an important balance to county government. He recognizes the variety of challenges facing citizens and families in today’s society at the local county level and beyond. Mr. Keil demonstrates a level of knowledge, patience and caring necessary to make both long-term and short-term decisions as a county board member.

Vote for someone who is well-grounded and open-minded.

Re-elect Roger Plesha

By JIM BOGDAN | La Crosse

Roger Plesha, who has represented the 7th District for many years, should be re-elected to the county board. Roger represents constituents in a positive way without putting himself in the limelight.

He does not court media attention but stays focused on the business of the county. He listens to the needs and ideas of the people he represents. Roger will continue to be a creative problem solver on the county board. He knows no other way.

Support Plesha in District 7

By PAM SEMB | Rockland, Wis.

As citizens of La Crosse County, we would like to express our support of candidate Roger Plesha for the county supervisors race in District 7.

His continued support of La Crosse County’s provision of services for the elderly, people with mental illness and developmental disabilities as well as our veterans is a testament to his ongoing service to not only District 7, but the county as a whole. Roger has also shown a concern to provide these services in the most cost-effective manner possible.

He has also been critically involved in the formation and operation of the recent Lakeview multi-county initiative, which will save La Crosse County taxpayers over $700,000 in 2008 alone.

For the good of all La Crosse County residents we strongly encourage you to support Roger Plesha in the upcoming election on April 1.

This letter also was signed by Margee Donndelinger, Pete Eide and Noreen Kuroski, all of La Crosse.

Re-elect Schroeder

By STEVEN M. DINGER | La Crosse

On Tuesday, vote to re-elect Jeff Schroeder, District 25 town of Campbell area.

During the past 10 years, Jeff has remained accountable and dedicated to his constituents while making difficult decisions on a variety of issues and remaining fiscally responsible.

Tough decisions will need to be made during tough economic times. We need Jeff Schroeder’s continued leadership.

Vote yes on April 1

By MICHELLE BOGE | La Crosse

La Crosse is a wonderful community with great schools. Our community voted yes to Question I in 2004. Without voting yes again, class sizes will increase, at least one school will be closed resulting in boundaries being redrawn, and fewer choices will be offered in middle and high school courses, along with various other cuts that will impact our students.

In regard to Question II, there is no doubt that something needs to be done with our aging facilities. The boilers at Emerson Elementary are nearly 70 years old, and 17 of the 29 boilers have no remaining life expectancy.

The prospect of combining Franklin and Roosevelt and building a new school would in the long run save money (more than $400,000 per year in staffing costs and consolidation efficiencies). Our schools need adequate funding and are in dire need of repair. Keep La Crosse schools great and vote yes on April 1.

Huesmann deserves support

By TOM KRUSE | Holmen, Wis.

I am a business owner writing in support of Mark Huesmann. Mark has worked with my company since 2003 helping ensure our protection and viability as a business entity. We have seen frivolous lawsuits from attorneys who are the opposite of Mark Huesmann.

I have come to respect Mark’s realistic, proactive mindset. He is a confident person I rely upon for counsel. Mark looks out for his clients first, not himself. He is one of a handful of attorneys who has attained my respect in this area. Mark and his wife Sonja are committed to a higher level of legal service. Mark has shown equal dedication and devotion to the Holmen community. He is a resident who is committed to its long-term success.

Support school questions

By BRENDA LEAHY and MICHAEL SLEVIN | La Crosse

We urge you to support both the operating and capital improvement referendum in the upcoming April 1 election. Both will help ensure that our children continue to have a safe and quality education.

The school board has tirelessly researched many proposals regarding the capital improvement needs of our district. Originally they were given a dollar amount of $112 million of pressing concerns. They should be commended for their commitment of brainstorming feasible ideas to best meet the needs of the aging buildings and taxpayer pocketbooks.

Pedretti for county board

By GEORGE VARNUM | Holmen, Wis.

The candidates for the District 27 county board seat, are the lawyer, Mark Huesman, and Marilyn Pedretti, town of Holland clerk. I have never met Mr. Huesman.

I do know Marilyn Pedretti. I have seen her driving a tractor, doing spring plowing. I’ve seen her sweating at her part-time landscaping job, and she works hard. Marilyn Pedretti built her own energy-efficient, solar-powered home. She knows how to pinch a penny!

Marilyn Pedretti, conscientious, thrifty, hard-working, is my choice for the District 27 county board seat.

Muth the best man for the job

By CINDY BUCKHOLTZ | Onalaska, Wis.

I am writing to the voters of the city of Onalaska today as a past employee of the city and as someone who knows Mike Giese and Bob Muth. I have worked with both candidates, and know both men to be kind, honest and great listeners.

I have heard that Mike plans to micro-manage departments inside City Hall. I know for a fact that one department does need this, to benefit the city and the taxpayers.

As my Uncle Shirleigh Van Riper used to say, “You do what is best for the city and the people who live here. You also listen to everyone, whether you agree or not.” Anyone who remembers him during his years as mayor will remember, even if you didn’t agree with him, he would stand up and shake your hand, you always had his respect. It’s called integrity, book smarts and common sense.

So with that, and after working with both men, I urge everyone to vote for Bob Muth for mayor.

Mike is a great choice for city council, but Bob Muth has what is needed to be mayor. He knows what each department should be doing. He’s been there and has the experience working with our surrounding communities. Bob Muth is the best man for the job.

Back Muth for mayor

By VIRGIL C. LUKEROTH | Onalaska, Wis.

When one compares the two candidates for mayor of Onalaska it would, at first, seem that it makes little difference which one is elected to the office.

Both are very active and experienced in our local government and have exemplary records. Both are advocates for open government, cooperation between surrounding municipalities and towns. They both support commercial and industrial development.

The real difference between the two is their approach to problems. Bob has carried his forthright approach to problems to his position on the Common Council. He has proven to study the issues, examine the potential solutions and then make a decision and get on with the solution. As Larry, the Cable Guy might say, “Let’s get’er done with Bob Muth!”

Back Drewes and Schroeder

By BARBARA BALL | La Crosse

How many times have you gone to the polls and voted without knowing anything about the candidate? You look at the unknown names, pick one then vote without knowing anything about the person.

This year I am privileged to know two of the candidates running for county supervisor, Dave Drewes and Jeff Schroeder. I have had many economic conversations with these two people.

I called Jeff Schroeder, incumbent County Supervisor, to help me with a problem. I told him about the situation and he presented it to the board and helped me find a satisfactory solution. Jeff is one supervisor that takes his job seriously paying close attention to his constitutes. Jeff is very aware of high taxes and keeps this in mind when voting on county projects.

As for Dave Drewes I am amazed at his passion for saving our tax dollars. He helped start a group called “Citizens for Responsible Government” or “CRG,” which keeps watch on the local government and how they spend our money. Part of his job is to investigate the cost and necessity of county projects, which will be very helpful as a board member. He faithfully attends meetings and will be very involved in his duties. Dave will work to save us tax money while making sure that our county needs are met.

Dave and Jeff will listen to you, the taxpayer, and we need that. Please vote with me for two caring, involved men and get wasteful spending under control.

Vote no on school issues

By WILLIAM WOLF | La Crosse

I am writing this letter in response to a comment that Jamie Vollmer made to educators, business leaders, and elected officials in Thursday’s economic forum sponsored by the La Crosse Area Development Corp. The attitude that the schools are expected to “raise our kids” seemed to be echoed by Jerry Kember when he said that the district isn’t getting any resources to meet that “mandate.”

The upcoming school referendums are the district’s answer to that. As a parent of children in the La Crosse School District, I want to work with the schools to educate my kids. I also want the schools to spend my money wisely and make the same sacrifices that I make in times of financial difficulties and tight budgets. I agree with spending the $4.17 million on the operating referendum.

Maybe if you would negotiate with me and drop the $15 million (or probably a lot more) for a new building from the $35 million building referendum we might talk. I don’t want or need the schools to raise my kids, so don’t try to lay a guilt trip on me or other parents about that or about us not educating our children to get me to part with my hard earned money. I teach them valuable lessons that the school can never teach. I teach them about life in the real world and part of that is fiscal responsibility.

If the second referendum fails it is only because the district is too greedy in what they are asking for, just like the last time it failed. Instead of asking the parents to work with educators, why don’t you work with us instead and fix what is broke before you ask us to build new schools.

 

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