Letter: Close Friend of Yvonne Selcer Says She Will Deliver

To the Editor:

Full disclosure: I have known Yvonne Selcer for over 46 years. We met when my family moved from Minneapolis to Winsted just as I was starting 8^th grade. Yvonne reached out and befriended me. That single act of kindness smoothed my awkward transition from big city to small town. As a 13-year-old, Yvonne was wise beyond her years. And as long as I have been fortunate to call her my friend, Yvonne has acted on her beliefs: knowing she could make a difference in someone’s life. We graduated from high school in 1971, firmly convinced that we could change the world. I now live in Iowa, but still consider Minnesota the home of my heart.

Now, I am startled to hear that some are questioning Yvonne’s work history, education and ultimately, her character. As her friend for over 46 years, I want you to understand the truth.

You do not have to know Yvonne long to know that she is unfailingly honest. I was there when Yvonne graduated from college and set off to be a teacher. I visited Yvonne in Virginia where she taught school in one of the most poverty-stricken areas of the country. I cheered when Yvonne moved back to Minnesota to be closer to her large, wonderful family. I role played more than a few hours as Yvonne honed her skills at describing her company’s services. I knew it was serious when Yvonne invited my husband and me to meet Chuck Selcer. And I knew it was right when I saw that Chuck shared Yvonne’s passion for making the world a better place.

With her children moving to middle school and high school, Yvonne was ready to give more time to her community. Yvonne’s tenure on the Hopkins school board is evidence of thoughtful, problem-solving leadership. She clearly internalized her father’s small-business sensibility as she questioned the financial situation and future estimates for the school budget. Yvonne understands that fiscal soundness is the basis for a healthy school system and a robust community.

You need not question Yvonne’s history or background. Her record of accomplishments – accomplishments that she measures only by the impact on her constituents – is public and uncontested.

What you really need to know is that Yvonne is passionately focused on education and providing people with the support necessary to be successful.  Yvonne will focus on the goal and not be driven by dogma or a party line. She will encourage discussion, dialogue and solutions that make a difference. Through it all, Yvonne will make sure all voices are heard. These are times that call for clarity and transparency: Yvonne will deliver both.

We desperately need to end the partisan bickering and move forward. I now live in Iowa, but still consider Minnesota the home of my heart. I have family in Minnesota and I care deeply about the state. Yvonne and I have been friends for over 46 years and she has never disappointed me. You are fortunate to have Yvonne Selcer as a candidate, she will not disappoint you. Vote for Yvonne Selcer.

Liz Bredeson

West Des Moines, IA