Rep. Hawkins

It is truly regrettable that Rep. Gus Hawkins (D-Los Angeles) has decided to resign after 28 years of fine representation. Hawkins has been a strong and powerful advocate for education, health and housing--the most important issues of our times. His tenure has been unblemished, in contrast to mounting evidence of the decline of ethics in government.

As a member of a school board, I am especially sorry to see him go. As chair of the House Education & Labor Committee, Hawkins has fought hard to obtain more funding and support of educational programs and schools. Just last month, he proposed substantial funding in the new federal budget that would have nearly doubled federal spending in education. Perhaps the Administration will listen, particularly since new studies have shown how effective Head Start, one of Hawkins’ favorite projects, can be.

Rep. Hawkins will long be known for his efforts to improve the lives of all citizens. His shoes are big, but I have no doubt that Assemblywoman Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles), whom you identify as his “heir apparent,” will continue his tradition.

I’ll miss you, Gus.

THOMASINA M. REED

Board of Education Member

Inglewood Unified School District