November 6, 2002

Dear Sir or Madam:

It is my privilege to write to you this letter of reference for my dear friend, whom I call my dad, the Doctor James H. Brass.

In 1989 Jim was working with The Salvation Army as a youth leader when I was introduced to the program. Jim was a father figure to me as a high-risk student attending Rainier Beach High School. There was a lack of a father in my own home, and Jim recognized that I needed someone to look up to and guide me. He stepped up to the challenge. He has always been a kind and generous man that has had good advice and wisdom to share.

For the past 14 years, we have continued to grow close, and I call him Dad, because he has truly earned it. He has always encouraged my goal of a law-enforcement career, and has helped me to map out what I wanted with my life. It was with his support I graduated college, and can proudly say that I am now a Trooper with the Washington State Patrol for the last two years. I can credit a large portion of my success to his support and encouragement.

Please feel free to contact me if there is anything additional I can provide.

Sincerely,

Trooper Joe

(call or email for his name and phone)