Thanks to Mary Griffin, of The Pilot newsroom, for her continued commitment to local community projects and the outstanding coverage she provided to so many. We are sad to bid her farewell as she moves back up North to pursue other career possibilities.

On behalf of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Moore County (NAMI-MC), I thank Griffin for her support of our organization and her understanding of our mission and goals.

It is rare for a journalist to understand the complexities of brain illnesses and the public stigma that those with these illnesses face in additon to their needs in this community.

Griffin is a caring and compassionate individual who will be sorely missed in the Sandhills by those of us fortunate enough to have worked with her. We wish her the very best that life has to offer and much professional success in her life's journey.

Marianne Kernan, Pinehurst

Editor's Note: We at The Pilot, too, will sorely miss Mary, a journalistic pro and a good friend who has made an outstanding contribution as a member of our staff. We wish her well in her future endeavors.