This is the final curtain call. Let’s start from the end…As I am writing this, it is 7:10 p.m. and we are laying to bed the final issue of The Panther for the 2004-2005 academic year. As of tomorrow, around this time, I will have relinquished my duties as editor in chief of this publication. For two years, Denise and I have done our best to be positive representatives and a voice for the students. But now, as the curtains are closing on this journey, it’s time to find a new role to take on.
On this stage, this journey, I have had some good and bad moments, but overall I’ve been truly blessed to encounter and work with some of the most incredible people God has put on earth. Despite the fact that our staff has had more line-up changes than Destiny’s Child, these people, my stage crew, have been crucial in the development of this paper.
Denise- Damnit, we are some bad chicks! I’m going to miss you. You are truly my sanity when it comes to this paper. We started out as amateurs and now we have this journalism game on lock. Thanks for having my back and being strong for me when I couldn’t be. You are a TRUE friend and leader. I will always love you for keeping it real and the tough love lessons. Stay strong Gameface- you will make it.
Leona- Little Napoleon. The Keebler Elf. The corporate ladder climber. For someone to be only 4′ 11,” you pack a lot of power. You are a true inspiration. When most people would have given up after the experiences you’ve had, you never faltered. You are a true example of the words perseverance and strength. Although you didn’t finish out with us, you are still an influence in this office. Thanks for keeping me in good spirits and your never ending house parties. You are my big sis and I love you.
Dustin a.k.a. Prince Akbar- My brother, I see greatness in you. Thanks for being someone I could confide in and vent with. I know this thing called life is a struggle sometimes but we come from a strong line of survivors. We are the brightest and the best. Keep in touch so I’ll know where God and life leads you.
NiRosha- I know you are reading this at UNT. Even though you’re gone, you will always be a part of the original fabulous four. Denise, Leona, and I miss you. The show hasn’t been the same without you. You are a diva… see you in the big time!
Raquel- Thanks for stepping up to the plate when you were needed. Decisions were made, and despite whether they were wrong or right, I can’t change them. I sincerely thank you for your hard work.
To the newest members of Pi Phi Sigma, where everybody is paper, The Misunderstood: Nneka (Somethin’ Serious)- welcome to my world! I have no doubt that you will take this paper to greater heights. Please take care of my “baby.” It will get hard, you will have haters, and people will always find a reason to complain, but “dust the dirt off ya shoulders” and keep stepping. Latisha (Choppa)- I see a lot of me in you. I thought you were quiet but you fooled us big time. You will be great. I’ve enjoyed belting out the oldies with you and our Tuesday runs to Popeyes for the 2 pieces. Rashad (Co’mon Short)- I’ve enjoyed watching you mature this year (Baton Rouge, baby, I see ya!). I know this for a fact-you are the best sports editor we’ve ever had. You have real talent-don’t let it go to waste. Alanna (Questions)- you are about to be in for the ride of your life. Do not let these people get to you about 20 Questions! You have some big shoes to fill but you will do fine. Plus, you’re from the metroplex, you’ll be alright.
To Dr. Price, the Office of Student Affairs, and the Department of Student Activities: Thank you for letting me serve in the capacity of editor in chief. It has truly been a pleasure working with you guys.
My mom, Antoinette: you have no idea how much I value and love you. You know me better than I know myself. At times, I know I can be stubborn and hardheaded but thanks for loving and supporting me regardless of what I do. You never complain- you just do what you have to do. Thanks.
John a.k.a. ‘Pops’: thanks for your support and encouragement. You are a blessing to us. Love ya!
My little sister, Monica: I am so proud of you! You’ve come a long way but you’re still growing. Thanks for always having my back. I know we don’t always see eye to eye but blood is thicker than water- we’re all we got. I love you and continue to “do it big.”
To the second greatest man to ever walk this earth (Jesus will always be #1), my late grandfather, Austin Salter Sr.- you have no idea how much your presence is missed. I know that you are watching over the family and me from heaven. Rest in peace.
To my Granny and Granddad Johnson- I love you guys so much. Thanks for keeping my newspapers and bragging about me. Thanks to my entire family, especially my Uncle Rodney, for your love and encouragement.
To Judea Baptist Church, Palestine Herald Press, Verneice Scales, The New York Times Institute, The Associated Press, Serbino Sandifer Walker and HABJ, and my fellow HBCU newspaper comrades: Thanks for supporting and offering me opportunities I never could have experienced on my own. You guys have opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities.
To my girlfriends for life who have been there for me since our days in the UC, Four-Tre: Carmen, Dana, and Erica-UPN has nothing on us! Carmen-my best friend, I love you. We’ve grown from being scared little girls entering college to grown independent women. I’m so proud of you! Dana Bana- what are you saying?! Thanks for entertaining my nonsense and remember N.A.S. You sho’ right! Erica- thanks for the deep conversations on life, love, and happiness. You know it’s been a hard semester for me but thanks for the encouragement. You are the greatest.
To my crew Rashida, Shirona, Natalie, Ashley, Robyn, Donna, and Mayko-they’re not ready for us! Thanks for having a sista’s back. I love you guys!
To the only two guys I will ever call my brothers, Marques and Aaron- you truly have been my family since I’ve been here. You guys have seen me through all the good and bad times. I love you dearly.
Otis (Huh?): I owe you. Thanks for all your help. You have truly matured and I’m proud of you for standing on your own. You still have a long way to go… but you’re good at what you do. Remember that!
Kayla and Jerrell: I am so happy we are friends. You guys are truly a Godsend. I’ll miss our “family” dinners and conversations. Jerrell, I am not making any more chocolate cakes! K- whenever you’re ready to start that business, holla at me!
Starr and Valley: You guys are a trip! Starr- you are the first of our group to settle down, somewhat. I’m proud of you. I’m waiting on the wedding invite. Valley- I can’t wait to play “auntie” to the baby. You know I got your back. Keep your head up!
Mr. Smith: Some teachers wouldn’t go above and beyond the call of duty for their students but you do. You are the greatest. Thanks for having faith and believing in me all these years. You are the best!
Last, but not least to Prairie View: Thanks for giving me some of the best moments, opportunities, and experiences of my life. You have truly been my foundation. The education I have received here will help me fulfill my wildest dreams. Thanks.
The curtains closed.
It’s been real…
Peace.