Washington, D.C., Jul 3 - Shirley and I offer our condolences to the family and friends of Virginia State Senator Yvonne Miller upon the news today of her passing.  Not only did Senator Miller and I share representation of a portion of Chesapeake, but we also served together in the Virginia Senate.  Senator Miller made history when she became the first elected African American female to both the Virginia House of Delegates and the Virginia Senate.  She also earned her PhD and was Professor Emeritus at Norfolk State University.  There is no question that Senator Miller reaching such heights helped inspire and pave the way for many young women following behind her.  We thank Senator Yvonne Miller for her service to our community and our State.  Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this time of loss.