Jimmy V. Johnson--Sales Representative: "Making a marriage work requires more than love. I know this might sound old, but time and commitment are very important issues between a husband and wife. I’ve never been married, but I’m very willing to put the time in."

Teretha Martin--Technical Support/Webmaster: "I don’t think the institution of marriage is dying in the Black community. I’ve attended many weddings in the past 15 years. Many people I know are making commitments to each other; my children, relatives, friends, coworkers, boss--even myself. So far, we’re all still married."

Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr.--Editor: "I don’t think marriage is dying, but we are seeing a different attitude toward the institution. People either wait longer to marry or are in long-term relationships in which they live together (or apart) and have the kids without making it official."

Kia Marie Cook--Staff Reporter: "The institution of marriage--as a sacred union between man, woman and God--is not dying. But, there’s been a shift in the paradigm. People are choosing to focus on their careers before marriage. It’s a test of the briefcase before the ball and chain.