On July 11, not even the occasional sprinkle of rain could dampen the excitement of those gathered for the Derby Days Grand Parade — and I was happy to be among them! Talk about a good, old-fashioned campaign team: a large, excited crowd of people marching in support for Steve Fields’ campaign for mayor of Redmond (how often do you see that?).

Derby Days is an absolute blast whether you’re watching the parade or you’re in it. The last time I participated in the parade, I was a little kid riding my bike in the Kids Parade. Now, as a soon-to-be sophomore studying politics at Gonzaga University, I couldn’t stop smiling as I marched alongside Fields.

I’ve lived in Redmond nearly 19 years and been involved with the community in many ways; I’ve seen it develop downtown while our neighborhoods seem to be going downhill fast. I’ve had the chance to go door-to-door with Fields’ campaign and talk with voters, and a surprising number of folks tell us they feel like they are getting squeezed out of their own city.

That’s why I’m thrilled that Fields is stepping up to offer a change from the status quo. Fields is running to make Redmond a place where its citizens can enjoy all that it has to offer.

Redmond folks are ready for a new voice and a new leader. I know I am. That’s why instead of spending my summer break relaxing and playing video games, I’m volunteering with Fields. Redmond deserves a mayor that cares about taking care of neighborhoods as well as balancing growth downtown.

Redmond deserves Fields for mayor.

Alex Casanas

Redmond