I am writing to introduce your readers to someone that I feel would be a great representative of not only our city, but also the state of Washington.

Greg Baruso may be a name unfamiliar to some, but he has been giving back to our community and has served the citizens of our area for many years as a firefighter, volunteer, mentor and leader. He selflessly gives his time to those in need and together with his wife, has donated many, many hours to our community and their children’s schools.

Each year as a member of the city of Federal Way’s Diversity Commission, he tirelessly champions the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. city-wide food drive that my daughter and I have happily volunteered for.

I wanted my daughter to experience what it feels like to help others and gladly said yes when Greg asked about her joining them for the day for the food drive last year. When we were done, my daughter said that she was glad she participated and realized that we were very lucky to have what we do even though I at times struggle to make ends meet.

We have known Greg and his family for eight years. His wife Shawn has volunteered for every school that their children attend and they always participate in school activities, whether for book drives, fund raising, concerts or chaperoning field trips.

They invited my family to go camping with them. They treat us like family and they always made sure that we had fun and were taken care of.

It is very rare to find this type of character in people so I am not surprised that Greg has decided to run for the state House. It is my belief that Greg would be an excellent legislator. He is a man of his word, is fair and always treats those around him with dignity and respect, all characteristics of a great legislator. He is someone we need in Olympia fighting for our rights and he will make a difference.

Let’s stop with the political recycling and make a change for the future. Please join me in voting for Greg Baruso for the Washington state House of Representatives, Pos. 1.

Christina Cassara, Federal Way