My grandfather was one of the first Black police officers in our town. My grandmother was the second Black teacher in the town. When my grandfather retired from the police force he went on to work another 24 years in a second career. My great grandfather was the pastor of a local church in our town. Growing up there was always a strong sense of working hard. But most of all an obligation of public service. In 2000 I ran for city council in my town... Won and became the first Black female council president . My fondest memory of my grandfather is his strength. In a family of public servants - The house was always filled with laughter, the door was always open.