NEW ORLEANS — Today is my final appearance on Channel 4. I'm leaving to begin a new chapter of my journalism career. This time, my wife will be with me as we launch a true-crime podcast based in New Orleans next Thursday.
Before I sign off, I want to share some thank yous. As a kid, there were many times I felt out of place. I guess its part of the experience of being a first-generation immigrant.
When I would play basketball, I was usually the last one chosen, or close to it. Maybe it was because I didn't have a jump shot. Maybe it was because I looked different. That sticks with you when you're young. And it stuck with me as I traveled the country, and sometimes the world, reporting on countless stories.
But when I first came here to New Orleans 17 years ago, Channel 4 picked me to play. New Orleans watched me play.
I wasn't always the best shooter, and I certainly missed a lot of shots. But I hustled. I can say I played hard for this team.
For taking a chance on me, I thank Channel 4 and all the great people who work here. And I thank New Orleans and Southeast Louisiana.
I want to thank my wife for enduring the holidays I missed, and the time we spent apart because of my job.
And lastly, I want to thank my family. We've been through so much but accomplished even more. May God keep guiding us, and with his help, I plan on staying in New Orleans. It is the only place that has told me "You belong on this team."
Thank you so much for watching. I will miss this, and all of you.