A light...gone out

She was a light in our district’s darkness.

I just received news today, reading at today’s papers. Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, who represents my district, the 37th in California, passed away yesterday. I couldn’t believe the news…but I had to. People come, and people go. I just shook me head. I am just realizing the many things she has done in my district. District 37 encompasses West Long Beach.

She was an important member of Congress for I don’t know how many years. I was proud to have met her. Her hard work in helping our community was the reason she was able to keep her seat. No other person could have done such a great endeavor as a senior member of the House of Representatives.

I remember a number of people barracking for Peter Matthews to represent the Democrats in the recent election last year. He was flattened by Millender-McDonald in the primaries. I remember Oscar Velasco, a humble Pinoy like me, who did our taxes a few times, fight a brave battle against Millender-McDonald…as a Republican. But no, one, an I mean, NO ONE, could replicate the many great things Congresswoman Millender-McDonald did for the West Side. She is one of those people that will go down as a tough act to follow. I salute her, as she takes her place in the sky. Maybe she will be able to meet my grandparents there. I hope she can do that for me.

Rest in peace.