I wish I had better news for you today. But the mass shooting in San Jose yesterday was one of the toughest days of my career, and now the tragedy has hit home.

Late yesterday, we were able to confirm that one of the victims of the shooting that took place at the VTA light rail yard was our own AFSCME brother, Paul Megia. Paul was the assistant superintendent of the Guadalupe Division for VTA, he was an active AFSCME member, he was always dressed sharp whenever he came to work, and he will be greatly missed.

We also learned that another victim was the nephew of one of our Council 57 members.

As a longtime VTA employee, I can tell you this is a very difficult time for all our AFSCME members and union brothers and sisters who work here.

My hope is that everyone can take a moment today and remember that each one of the victim’s lives was essential.

Coping with this tragedy is not going to be easy. For our VTA members, I encourage you to reach out to the Employee Assistance Program at 1-800-962-1306 or talk to the grief counselors who are available today from 11am-7pm at the American Red Cross, located at 2741 North First Street, in San Jose, and at the Cerone Division.

For all our Council 57 brothers and sisters in the South Bay area, I’m inviting you to join us at the candlelight vigil for the victims, which will be held today at 6pm at San Jose City Hall Plaza, located at 200 East Santa Clara Street, in San Jose.

If you would like to show your support and solidarity in other ways, I would encourage you to make a donation to help the families of the victims. Working Partnerships USA, one of our community partners, has set up a website where people can make donations in support of the victims and their families.