News-Record.com

My friend and I were eating at the cafeteria at Carolina Circle Mall about 12 years ago. I had read in the paper that Rosa Parks was to be at A&T for a visit. Close to us, they had set four or five tables together.

Before long, some very distinguished black men came in and sat down on both sides of the tables. A sweet-looking lady came in and sat at the table with them. After they ate and talked, this sweet lady got up and stood away from the tables with a young man. That is when I realized this was Rosa Parks.

I told my friend I was going over to hug her. When I reached her, I realized this might be a bodyguard with her. I told him I just wanted to hug Mrs. Parks, and he said not to hug her too tight. I hugged her and told her I loved her and walked back to my table.

I call this my claim to fame. I'm sure Mrs. Parks is in heaven today.

Carolyn Corbett
Climax