To the Editor:
I write today to ask my fellow Alexandrians to cast their ballot this Nov. 3 for Willie Bailey for City Council. Throughout his life, Willie has displayed the highest character and personal integrity. Whether it has been his service in the U.S. Army or his work as a firefighter, Willie has always held positions of leadership, which have involved working together to accomplish a common goal. We can all agree that this is the kind of person we need on City Council.
Willie’s leadership doesn’t end with his service to our country and region. Willie founded his own nonprofit, Firefighters and Friends to the Rescue, which I’m a big support of, 15 years ago to help underprivileged children throughout Alexandria and Northern Virginia. Every year, Willie and volunteers partner with Schools, Police, Sheriff, Fire Departments and Recreation Centers to distribute thousands of new coats, backpacks, and toys for the holidays. I have known Willie for years and seen his passion up close. For many of these children it finally gives them the tools and the confidence needed to succeed in school.
Having grown up in public and affordable housing in Alexandria, Willie knows that some kids face greater needs than others. In a city as prosperous as ours, no child deserves to start school already behind their peers. For a city that has done so much for him, he sees it as a simple act of giving back. Its service like this that exemplifies why I support Willie and you should too.
Michael Johnson
Alexandria