International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

I am very thankful to the women in my life; past and present. I am also very thankful for the positive role models in our community for my daughter, Sophia, to admire- first and foremost my wife, Holly, a middle school math teacher, mentor, and awesome mother and wife!

Peter Abbarno, Centralia Mayor Pro Tem and Candidate for the State House of Representatives in the 20th Legislative District.

International Women’s Day (IWD) has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people.

I’ve been lucky to have positive female role models in my life. I want to thank all the women in our community who are mentoring others and leading by example.

Being positive role models by supporting local youth and students is a very important mission of our family. International Women’s Day is a holiday to remind both boys and girls to treat each other with respect and equally. That is how I want my son and daughter to treat others and how I want others to treat my children.

Peter Abbarno, Centralia Mayor Pro Tem and Candidate for the State House of Representatives in the 20th Legislative District

Peter is president of the Centralia College Foundation, active volunteer with the Miss Lewis County Scholarship Program, and serves in the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program, and as a mentor to students in Centralia, Chehalis, and Morton.

Learn more about Peter and his campaign for State Representative in the 20th Legislative District by visiting www.ElectPeterAbbarno.com