We received several letters this week from candidates who are running for various offices. Per company policy, the Press-Banner does not publish letters directly from candidates during election season; the editorial page would become a free-for-all if we did. We will, however, publish the letters at www.pressbanner.com.

EDITOR,

Friends and neighbors, thank you for the many kind words of support during my campaign for Scotts Valley School Board. Although I entered the election late, I am by no means new to Scotts Valley or our schools. As a former Scotts Valley police officer, I was awarded the Medal of Merit, the Scotts Valley Mayors Service Award and the California Youth Authority Individual Service Award for my service to the youth of Scotts Valley. More recently, I am raising three daughters, all of who have graduated from or are enrolled in Scotts Valley schools. I am currently a reserve deputy sheriff and the lead instructor of the administration of justice program at Gavilan College. I entered the race because I felt a two-candidate race for two seats was a non-issue, and I wanted to raise the issue of school quality now. Not in January when the new board is seated. I applaud my fellow candidates’ commitment to public service and their desire to serve at a time when tough decisions will have to be made. It has been a pleasure to meet all of you during this campaign, and I thank you.

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