Many years ago, my father's family came to Delano. Max, my dad, was born a year later. Feliza, his mother, nursed patients at the local hospital while Eustaquio, his father, worked the grape fields of the Central Valley. Twenty years later, Sharon, my mom (#1), and her family landed in San Francisco. My Pau-Pau sewed garments while my Gong-Gong worked in the New Hong Kong Noodle Company factory.

My elders arrived for opportunity and favorable lives for their families. As my parents met in architecture and I witnessed their struggles and successes as a child, I have much to be thankful for. For the many who went before me, I see their courage in new beginnings. I see their diligent work for society and in raising families. I see moments of great tension. Celebrations and gatherings embed themselves in memory. I taste the damn good food. Through listening to my loved ones, I learn from stories past and stories unfolding. Through my work, I give back and make them known.