By SANTOS HERRERA, news editor

And by baby, I mean this newspaper. I have watched it grow and develop. I have invested time and effort into it. I have celebrated its victories, and I have corrected its mistakes. I never thought I would ever write for a newspaper, let alone care for one as much as I do for The Observer. 

I believe the reason why I have come to care so much for this publication is because I care about the people who have also done so much for it. I have had some of the best times of my life in the newsroom. For example, prior to working in the newsroom, I never knew what “ratchet” meant, and because of that word, my life will never be the same.

I want to thank my girlfriend Becca for putting up with me and my crazy work hours. I know it wasn’t easy on you when I didn’t get home from work until almost 3 a.m. and had to be back at work four hours later, or when we were finally able to spend time together and I had to leave to take a call because one of my reporters needed help. My time as an editor ran more smoothly knowing I had someone as understanding as you by my side. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and for bringing food to the newsroom for everyone when production ran late. I love you, and I am excited for a future with you!

Jayna “PJ” Smith, you are my “snack brother from another batter.” When we first began working together in the fall, I did not know what to expect because we didn’t know each other, but you have turned out to be like a sister to me. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with someone as great as you. I wish only the best for you and Michael, and I can’t wait to attend your wedding when the day comes.

Chanet “NeNe” Stevenson, all I can say is “HUEVO.” As you know, my life motto has become “count on NeNe,” because you were always there to help me when I was first trying to get the hang of being an editor, and you have been there any time I needed someone to pull an immature prank or make an immature joke. You’re simply the best.

Jeanette “NetNet” Genson, what can I say about you? You will go down in my history books as the one person who would say the most outrageous things and truly believe in them. For example, “How come Gaudino gets to wear a suit and the chimps can’t?” I’m going to take it back to high school and say, “Never change.”

Derek “Too Many Nicknames” Shuck, you’re an amazing person with an amazing life. I will never hear the name Gordon Ramsey without thinking of you. Just do you and keep sneezing (inside joke).

Danny “Pioneer” Schmidt, you are our fearless leader. Actually, I take that back. You’re afraid of a lot of things and people, especially Vicky. She’s pretty ratchet. In any case, you have been my editor since I was a reporter, so it might be safe to say that most of what I know is because of you — or is it because of NeNe? I’ll let you decide. All jokes aside, thank you for all of your help, and I think I speak for everyone when I say that The Observer wouldn’t have been the same or nearly as fun without you.

Seth “Slonbo” Lonborg, Vicky “Slick Vick” Valdovinos, Zach “Zolney” Olney, Claire “C.C.” Cox, and Evan “Accents” Thompson, you have all been great to work with and get to know. I don’t know how it was possible to get such different people from all walks of life, put them in the same room to assemble a newspaper and have them all get along with the same sense of humor. All I know is that this group of people has set the bar high for my next place of employment. It has been an unforgettable year of laughs, functions, more laughs and quote walls, which I hope never leave the newsroom. Thank you. And I’m out (drops mic and walks off stage).