FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 19, 2007

In the North Mason School Board elections, voters’ choices are not just clearly defined — they’re polarized.

The lightning rod is incumbent school board president Glenn Landram. With two consistent supporters on the five-member board, Landram has brought numerous changes to the district since he was elected four years ago. His heavy-handed leadership style has also stirred turmoil, divisiveness and even rancor among North Mason School District residents, employees and board members.

Landram is challenged by John Campbell. Also running are board member Art Wightman, challenged by Dave Kinnee, and incumbent Ken Van Buskirk, facing challenger Laura Boad. If you’re keeping score — and North Mason voters are — Kinnee and Van Buskirk are in the Landram camp, while Wightman and Boad oppose it. At one board meeting, Wightman publicly called on Landram to resign.

The candidates in this race all have impressive resumes and commendable records of local volunteer service. And all say they’re running for the betterment of students, the district and the community.

We feel fresh leadership on the board is needed to help clear the air, allowing the district to move ahead educationally without polarizing itself politically. Our board recommends voters support John Campbell, Laura Boad and Art Wightman for North Mason School Board.