I want to express my reasons to support Terri Violet for alderman, Ward 3, in St. Peters.

I met her about a year ago while shopping locally. After speaking with her briefly, I wanted to better know why she was running for local office. I wanted to give her a chance and hear her story.

What I learned is that she is a hard-charging citizen, dedicated to serving her community in many ways. Not just her local community, but she reaches out with her dedication with the American Red Cross Chapter. When the tornadoes struck the residents of Bridgeton in 2011, she was there the next day with the American Red Cross, helping displaced families.

As a retired Army officer, I recognize her commitment to veterans, the organizations that serve those veterans. This is a St. Peters resident with a strong Christian faith and background. She takes that faith with her as the chaplain of the Veterans Memorial Commission. She also serves on the St. Peters Planning and Zoning Commission. She spearheads community events for the children of the community.

As a 16-year St. Peters resident and now a subdivision trustee in this ward, I can say Ward 3 has not been the same since Len Pagano left the Board of Aldermen to serve as mayor.

I hold Terri Violet to a higher standard that I am confident she will exceed. She will work for each resident tirelessly every day of every week without sacrifice to other obligations.

Let us restore integrity to Ward 3.

Michael A. Shea, St. Peters