Mimi Valdés writes in her final editor's note:

This issue, Vibe's 143rd, is a fitting end to what has been an incredible ride for me. This is my last issue as Editor-in-Chief. I couldn't be more appreciative of what this opportunity has afforded me. I started as an editorial assistant more than 13 years ago, so imagine my happiness when I got to the top spot in September 2003.

I've left four times over the years (I know, I know, but the Vibe family is hard to resist) and every time I came back, my new experience was better than the last. There are way too many people to thank (the staff, artists, photographers, publicists, managers, and more) but I want everyone who's ever worked with me to know how grateful I am for their support. I'm especially thankful for the readers who've helped Vibe's newsstand numbers grow. Although it's cliché to say change is good, it's the truth.

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