Dear Friends, 

I begin this final letter as I began the first piece I wrote for Lasso Online, a letter announcing that Lasso was "pioneering into the New World of Online publishing." Eight months later, Lasso Online has posted 40 news stories, 70 sports stories, 21 features, 23 commentaries and compiled 2 extensive special editions. The staff feels fortunate for the chance to provide a forum for the student voice in the George Mason community.

We wouldn’t have been much of a forum, however, without the support of our readers. We’ve had enough hits for everybody in Falls Church to visit the site almost twice, more than 17,000. Thanks for your continued readership and for expressing your opinions through letters to the editor.

There is one man without whom Lasso Online wouldn’t have been possible. He is a true motivating force and a wonderfully supportive and kind person. I hope that many more young writers will be as affected by Mr. Hoover’s guiding advice as I have. I cannot express how grateful I am for all of his hard work and encouragement.

Another invaluable force behind the paper was technology guru Eileen Backofen. She contributed countless hours to make sure that everything was posted and that all necessary changes and additions were made. Her support was unending, and I cannot be more thankful. 

I’d also like to thank the dedicated members of the staff. Special thanks to Grant Machamer, the Photo Editor ("Grant, what is wrong with this camera?") and Liz Twentyman, the Managing Editor, who’s work, especially on the cheating special edition, was invaluable. Thanks to the sports writers: Mike Denny, Josh Singer, Beth Pyne, Kendra Webb and Justin Barrow for their timely and complete coverage of Mustang Athletics. Thanks to Kevin Dorsey and Viviana Cordova for their graphic art work. Thanks to my diligent writers Tammy Ashworth, Sara Kaplow and Becca Parson who showed up for every meeting. Thanks also to all those who contributed their articles and insight: Alex Baker, Matt Bond, Betsy Breen, Orie Bungarner, Michael Burgos, Brian Coleman, Gordon Daisly, Paige Dorsey, Sasha Eric, Irene Farrow, Ben Griffin, George Huff, Alice Newhall, David Oglethorpe, Folake Ojumu, Neil Powell Leen Quintyn, Grant Sabatier, Christina Sedney Jean Marie Thomas, Adrienne Thompson and anyone else I’m invariably forgetting. 

Next year, I’ll be writing for the Declaration at the University of Virginia but I’ll check Lasso Online often from my dorm. We’ve created something really cool this year, and it can only get more exciting in the years to come. If you haven’t joined Lasso Online yet, consider doing so next year. We could use your energy. I look forward to watching the paper grow!

Happy Trails, 

Juliana Pearson