As I look back at this year of editing The Castle, I think of the many people who made it a success. I wish to thank all of you for your support and assistance. You have made this issue possible.
Thank you to Marissa Petersen, whose poem "Untitled" appeared in the Fall 2002 issue under the incorrect author of Matthew Petersen. Thank you, Marissa, for being so understanding and humble. You deserve more recognition for your poem than you have received.
Thank you to all of the writers who submitted works to The Castle, whether or not those works appear in this issue. Your dedication to writing and willingness to share yourselves is what makes The Castle possible.
Thank you to the readers -- Kai, Mike, Ashley, Alaina, Sarah, Erica, and Angela -- for reading and voting on the submissions. Your input played an essential role in the creation of this issue.
Thank you to Jacci and Kaela for copyediting these pages. Without your help, the magazine would not look as it does.
Thank you to Ron and everyone in the Print Shop for making this magazine a reality. Despite my silly and annoying questions, you have always greeted me with kindness and assistance. Thank you so much for your help and guidance.
Thank you to Dr. Judy Griffith for unhesitating assistance and suggestions for a different way of selecting submissions. Your time and support went far beyond anything I expected from such a busy person and made the selection process a success. Thank you.
Thank you to Dr. Sonja Lynch for giving me support and assistance this term and for letting me have the freedom to do my own thing.
Thank you to Dr. Paul Hedeen for constant support, insights, and confidence in my abilities. You steadfast support has meant so much to me this year.
Thank you to the editors who came before me and who will come after me. I wish everyone the best of luck in the future, and I look forward to seeing The Castle grow and evolve in years to come.
Katherine C. Burg, editor