The Cat’s Dispatch

Walnut Ridge, Arkansas Lawrence County School District www.bobcats.k12.ar.us May 15, 2019 Vol. 44 Issue No. 8 ~ Walnut Ridge High School supplement to The Times Dispatch since 1976 ~

Gunn and West Named Top Graduates By Hailey Jensen

Garrett Gunn has been named the valedictorian of the Walnut Ridge High School graduating class of 2019. Graham West is salutatorian. Graduation will be held Friday, May 17 in the Sharum Gymnasium on the campus of WRHS. Commencement will begin at 7:00 p.m. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Baccalaureate for the graduating class was held on Sunday, May 12, at the Manley Chapel located on the Williams Baptist University campus. Garrett Gunn Graham West Valedictorian Salutatorian Patterson to Give Commencement Address This year’s commencement Tate Anderson Olivia Bickers Drew Brewer Cade Burris CJ Couch Slade Dalton speaker is Leigh Biggers Patterson, Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate a 1989 honor graduate from Walnut Ridge High School. Patterson is a Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the Sixth Judicial District of Arkansas. She is a 1993 cum laude graduate of ASU, where she was a varsity cheerleader. She graduated Jayden Darris Baylee Davis Claire Fisher Nicholas Foster Jordan Haynes Mason McEntire from UALR School of Law in 1996. Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate She is the daughter of Freddie and Belinda Biggers of Walnut Ridge. She is the aunt of Eli and Isaac Biggers. She lives in Little Rock with her daughters, Abby and Ashleigh Morris Chase Petty Sheridan Smith Hailie Standridge Kaiden Stormes Shelby Whitehead Krystin Wallace Kate. Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate Honor Graduate 2 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Our WRHS Countdown to Graduation By Landon Hamilton

With only days remaining until graduation, things are getting intense. We’re scrambling to turn in missing assignments, sending out invitations, and still dragging ourselves out of bed knowing we’re in the final stretch. Being a senior is great! We are almost to the point in life where we are on our own. Sure there are lots of upsides; it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though. If we fail everyone will be disappointed. No college, and as it may seem you may not have much of a future without your diploma. I’m hoping that all you underclassmen reading this take it to heart. You need to try your hardest now, so that your senior year will be breezy. Don’t blow off those electives or small homework assignments, because in just a few short years they will make a world of difference. Listen to your teachers and parents, I hope all of you have great futures. GO CLASS OF 2K19!!!!!! Mystery Students My View from the Totem Pole By Hannah Wade By Slade Dalton She’s always been a Daddy’s girl He thinks his jokes are funny After May 17, I will be a Walnut Ridge alumni. I cannot express Her dark brown hair has Got his eye on a special honey how ready I am to move onto the next stage of my life. High school lots of curl At the ‘Freeze he keeps his cool has been a great experience, but I am over all the hype around it. I A true Bobcat to the core Knowing his days are numbered feel like I’ve reached the learning cap for a high school mind at this Providing water after every at this school point, so basically I am killing time until graduation. score This fall, I will join the growing pack of Red Wolves at Arkansas State. As most people have already assumed, I do plan on rushing as well. I am uncertain on which fraternity I will be joining, but I am Cat’s Dispatch Staff looking forward to the amazing experience. In my free time during Editor-in-Chief — Kaiden Stormes college I will be pursuing a degree in Ag Business. In the near future I will see many of my hobbies wither away Sports Editor — Cade Burris and will be forced to find new ones. I plan on picking up a set of golf Cartoonist — Mattie Craig clubs to become the second coming of John Daly at the college level. Cookout Photographer — Nash Gill Over the years I have been almost persecuted for not hunting Staff Writers — Tate Anderson, Zack Osburn, Baylee Davis, Victoria Swindle, around this town. So I am going to give hunting a shot as well. There will be no more football, basketball, or baseball due to me graduating, Dakota Girard, Garrett Brown, Claire Fisher, Graham West, Kate Cole, Slade but Dalton, Tate Anderson, Landon Hamilton, Grady Privett, Kai Cunningham, I might find myself playing a few pickup games every now Tyler Cunningham, Bryson Farmer, Ashleigh Morris, Brighton Brand, Chase and then. I will continue to partake in my favorite hobbies of reading, Moseley, Lilly Maple, Tristin Hart, Carlos Mancilla, Olivia Bickers, Olivia Ford, doing community service work and going to church. Most of my time has been spent playing sports and training Max Hibbs, Irene Lynette Hood, Chloe Brown, Malachi Tinker, Haley Smart, Nash in the summers, but I don’t think I’m going to be doing that this year. Gill, Hannah Wade, Alex Lishman, Erin Hicks, Abby Rounsavall, Hailey Jensen, Once again, when this time rolls around, I become the closest thing Trishton Wilson, Skyla Henry, Ty Flippo, Mollie Blackshear and Hannah Beary to legally being a slave. I go and work on the family farm. I do enjoy Advisor — Stacy Rice the working aspect of being out there, but there is only so much I can enjoy being at my current rank on the totem pole. The staff of The Cat’s Dispatch dedicates each issue to the memory of David Brady, Editor 1991-93. Our WRHS 3 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 These are Bittersweet Days Adventures in High School By Baylee Davis By Brighton Brand You are going to pray these days go by as fast as possible because you are ready to leave this place, right? Everyone always My time as a Bobcat has been an adventure. Everyone said does. Before you do, think about all the friends, memories, games and it flies by and I never believed them. I always thought it would last teachers you are leaving behind. I can safely say I have made some of forever. Now, it is over. the greatest friends here and would not take back a single memory. It is time to start a new chapter. My high school career Before your senior year you never think about your last day of has been the most fun experience of my life. No job, bills, taxes or class, your last ball game or leaving your friends. Do not take the time worries. Now, it’s the real world and things are about to hit quickly. you have left here for granted. Make the most of your time and make If I could go back to my freshman year, I would do it in a memories. You won’t be in high school forever, even if it might feel like heartbeat. For all the underclassmen, my advice to you is “make your it. grades, enjoy it, and have as much fun at school, and out of school As I look back on my time at WRHS, I think about all the friends that you possibly can.” and memories made along the way. Now that I only have a little bit of time left, it feels bittersweet. This is my first huge accomplishment in my life, but I’m about to Goin’, Goin’, Gone… to leave some great people behind. I am so glad that I got to spend my days in high school with all the amazing people in my senior class. By Zack Osburn Stepping out of my normal comfort zone and becoming a I remember it like it was yesterday, about to start my freshman cheerleader my senior year was the best thing I did in high school. I year of high school, not knowing what to expect. Yes, I was a little highly encourage all of you to step out and try new things. Don’t wait nervous in the beginning, but I was proud to be a little more grown up, till it’s too late and say “I wonder what it would have been like.” moving out of middle school. To all of the underclassmen, do not wish away the time you Everything gets real when you get into high school. No more have left. I know you are ready to be done and get out of here, but as lame excuses or just faking your way through all the homework. It’s a the days get fewer, you will regret wishing for the end and not making time to actually settle down and get serious. Now, I’m not gonna lie, the most of the time you had left. I did not take it as serious as I should have. I wish I could go back and Join all the clubs you can. Go to all the games you’re not sure change all that. you want to go to. And do something you have always wanted to. High school was fun to me. Having all my friends by my side; nothing could go wrong. The one thing I will not miss about high school Spring Semester Test Schedule is all the drama. I’ve come to a point where I am just ready to get out. It’s taken months for me to realize that I will not be in high May 22-24, 2019 school next year and instead I will be in college! I guess it is true when they say, “Time flies by when you’re having fun.” Wednesday Thursday Friday My advice to the underclassmen is, “Live it up and have a good 8:00 1st period 8:00 2nd period 8:00 7th period time while you can, because before you know it, you’ll be gone.” 9:30 3rd period 9:30 4th period 9:30 8th period 11:00 5th period 11:00 6th period

What Are Your Plans after High School? By Ashleigh Morris Kaiden Stormes – ASU Hailie Standridge – ASU CJ Couch – ASU Baylee Davis – UCA Dylan Aaron – ASU Taylor McGinty – ATU Claire Fisher – BRTC then ASU Jordyn Jones – Cottey College in Kai Cunningham – WBU Nevada, MO. Zack Osburn – WBU Graham West – ASU WRHS Class of 2019: Jackson Forrester, Dylan Aaron, Trevor Mason McEntire – ASU Cade Burris - “I still don’t know.” Teel and Mason McEntire pause to savor their last days at WRHS. 4 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Our WRHS Looking Toward the Next Chapter Final Farewells By Kate Cole By Graham West The past three years have being trapped in this town with As of the time of writing, I have about two weeks of classes been spent at Walnut Ridge High a population of approximately left at Walnut Ridge High School. I’ve learned a lot here about a lot School from 8-3 almost every day 5000, I’m so excited to meet new of different things, and I’d love to share all of my experiences with – unless I skipped. Some would people and create new memories! you. I can’t make the story too long, but I can share a few words say that it’s a miracle I’ve made it After May 17, I plan to regardless. this far. have the best summer ever and To the class of 2020, your day is coming soon. It won’t be WRHS has taught me then end it with rush week. I will long before you’re all graduating. However, take my advice, and how to love Monday mornings, be attending (well, attending is don’t take a free year your senior year. It’s crucial to take classes that skip if I’m going to be tardy, and a strong word) Arkansas State, will prepare you for your life outside of high school. all about Macbeth. These years and my college roommate will be Loading up on free grades only affects your GPA, not your have been the best so far, but I Jade Stilger and our suitemates life after high school. Yes, your GPA is important for scholarships and have a feeling college is going to will be Allie Barnes and Olivia admissions, but after high school, it’s just a number. be better. Bickers, what a crew. #WAC. To the class of 2021: Do NOT slack off your junior year. It is College is all about I will truly miss these difficult and stressful, but if you quit now, you definitely aren’t going growth and chasing dreams; people and this town, but I’m so to be motivated to graduate during your senior year. being exactly who you want to be. ready to create a life for myself! vStay on top of every assignment you’re given. I promise it’s I’m planning on being a business The best advice I have for the not as difficult as it seems and you’ll thank yourself at graduation. administrator but my degree will underclassman is “count all of To the class of 2022, if you’re planning on attending college, probably change again by next your unexcused absences and begin building your applications now. The earlier you start, the week. make sure to use all of your more attractive you will be. Scholarships and admissions have huge As much as I’ve loved parent notes!” focuses on service and leadership, so look to be as active in clubs as possible. Distracted Driving Discouraged If you are passionate about something, make sure you take By Trishton Wilson every opportunity to give as much time to it as you can. Take the ACT at least once so you know where you stand and where to improve. I On April 12, WRHS students saw first-hand a simulation of know several seniors who have jumped 7+ points because they took a drunk driving accident and all the work that goes into rescue and it more than once and focused on improving their weaknesses. The recovery. only thing keeping you from a higher score is yourself. Presented the day before prom - in an effort to discourage And to any student, be motivated to learn. It’s not that bad, students from making bad decisions - the fire-fighting class worked really. In my opinion, learning happens in the classroom, not while for weeks to bring it all together. studying on your own. Talking in class is something everyone does, School Resource Officer Matt Schutzius coordinated with but not everything has to be said out loud. Staying quiet shows your multiple local and regional resources to make this event happen. respect to your teachers, the students around you, and to your own Students heard the actual radio call immediately before moving to the education. bleachers. You won’t have the chance to learn like this forever, so please The accident was staged on the track and the helicopter take advantage of the opportunities you’ve been provided. landed on the football field. The coroner was an actual coroner. The Lastly, I want to thank everyone who helped me achieve at coroner is always called before the parents to save them from more WRHS. Without all of you, I wouldn’t be half the person I am today. emotional trauma. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. They got the cars from impound. They were both from actual car crashes. As for the simulation as a whole, it was examples from a variety of different car crashes. The medical helicopter was brought in from Batesville, but they had a stand-by, in just in case it was in need. Students watched as the Jaws of Life were used to remove those injured from the wreck. The deceased student was taken away in a hearse. Looking forward to May 17: After the simulation, students heard from a lady who was Seniors Jayden Darris, Jett Ditto and released recently after serving six years in prison for her involvement Chase Petty supervise the cooks at the in a DUI accident which resulted in the deaths of two people. Senior Cookout held April 30. Our WRHS 5 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Signing Out My Journey Continues... By Claire Fisher By Lillian Maple If you’re reading this, expecting to get some good advice about high school or a funny story, sorry. All through my four years of The first time I walked into this school in the fourth grade, I high school I could not tell you anything I have remembered. I never wanted to go back to my old one. I didn’t know anyone and it was knew a single thing going on around me. I just tried to stick to school a totally different environment than Micro Society in Jonesboro. and friends. Anyways, here’s what I actually do remember. Throughout middle school, friendships began to grow and this school My freshman and sophomore years are kind of a blur. I was becoming a part of me. remember taking physical science with Doc Holloway and taking Middle school was hard, although high school was harder, geometry with Haynes. I remember getting Mrs. McNeely back in but I got through. I stayed focused (most of the time) and I had an biology then her leaving again. amazing group of friends to help me get through the hard times. I remember Coach Edmondson coaching basketball and Eight years of friendships and eight year of memories from softball my freshman year. I remember a kid threatening to shoot up within the walls of Walnut Ridge High School can never be replaced. the school my sophomore year. The friends I have made throughout school are the friends I will keep I remember coming into my freshman year and walking into all through life. They are the reason I keep going. They mean the English to have Mrs. Holland for another year (which was a good world to me. thing.) The moment we throw our caps in the air is the moment the Junior year was a whole tropical storm mixed with a tornado. rest of our lives will begin and I would not want to do that with any SO MUCH happened in my junior year. I took pre-cal and chemistry in different class than the WRHS Class of 2019. the same year, which seemed like a huge mistake at the time. It was my first year with Mrs. Rob and we wrote 15 million essays the first nine weeks. Analogies I remember back to back tests and crying a few times. We still had Mrs. Mayfield for APUSH and between her and Rob we learned By Erin Hicks there were ten different ways to write a thesis. • Kate Cole coming to school is like Blane Wade not being cool. Senior year has not been as stressful as my junior year. As I • What is a trail without a hiker, Jada Turner without baby Ryker? look back at the past three years, I realize how much has changed. • Garrett Brown without breakfast is like New Year’s without a to- Sadly, some of the people we started high school with are no longer do-list. here. • Lillian Maple without a Band-Aid is like an ex that stayed. Starting college will be hard. I’ve grown so used to being • What are Brighton Brand and Jackson Forester without Mrs. Pattin’s around the same group of people and teachers for so long that I bouncing ball? A school bathroom without a stall? won’t know what to do with myself. Growing up as a teacher/coach’s • What is a Tate Anderson without his voice, a game without a choice? kid, these hallways have become my second home. I know this school • Andres Casanova without grapes is like geometry without shapes. like the back of my hand and will most definitely get lost within the • Kyle Walters without the Army is like Africa without the safari. first ten minutes of college. • Aaron Schapira without his The best advice I can give to underclassmen is “step back and accent is like an apartment breathe.” You’re going to be perfectly fine; you’ll make it. Join as without rent. many clubs as you can and get involved in your school. Go to as many • Kaiden Stormes without school events as humanly possible because high school will be over in an attitude is like a video that the blink of an eye. As much as I don’t want to admit it, I will miss high never gets viewed. school. It’s been a good ride WR. • Doc without Cornell notes is like Trump getting the What Senior Will You Miss Most? most votes. By Tristin Hart • What is Zeus without Olympia, Mr. Ford without Hannah Wade – Claire Fisher Raelea Vampran – Nate Brown his daily trivia? Olivia Ford – Claire Fisher Sam Lewis – Landon Hamilton Isaiah Mabry – Slade Dalton Chloe Bounds – Kai Cunningham Austin Stover – Malachi Tinker Mike Steele – Landon Hamilton One More Year: Dylan Sheets – Creeden Lee Cole Manning – Cade Burris This time next year, it will be junior Justin Nunley – Dalton Nelson Livvie Howard - Garrett Brown Isaiah Mabry and his classmates Nash Gill – Zack Osburn and Ashleigh Morris graduating. 6 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Our WRHS Brand-ed Kai Gets the Job Done By Kai Cunningham By Brighton Brand

Brighton Richard Brand is Christopher Kai Cunningham the son of Tonda Brand of Walnut is a senior at Walnut Ridge High Ridge and the late Keith Brand. He School. Born on January 5, 2001, has an older brother, Ben Brand. he is 18 years old. His parents are His best friends are Sydney Burgin, Shane Cunningham of Walnut Kai Cunningham, Zack Osburn, Ridge and Michelle Gray of Chaz Burgin, Tyler Cunningham, Melbourne. He has a twin brother, Drew Flippo and Bryson Farmer. Tyler, who is also his role model. He has two cats and a dog named His best friend is Chloe Bounds. Buck. Kai has attended Walnut He has attended school Ridge since the fifth grade. Kai’s at Walnut Ridge his whole life. favorite teacher is Mrs. Rice His favorite teacher is Mrs. Rice because “she always helps me because she let me go get the get the job done.” Kai’s most papers. memorable moments at Walnut His most memorable Ridge were playing the sports he moment was when he dunked on loves, basketball and baseball. a kid from Hillcrest during the WBC Kai is most proud of making Tournament. He is most proud All-Conference in basketball as a of his All-Conference award in senior and the awards that he received in baseball. The best advice basketball. He will miss basketball Kai can give is “Make your grades and give it all you have in everything the most upon leaving high school. you do.” Kai’s best excuse for being late to class is “I was helping If he could start high Coach Peter.” school again, he would get in the The one thing Kai cannot live without is Chloe Bounds. Always weight room so he could be “wind- goofing off in class is what he expects to miss most about high school. milling” it on peoples’ heads during Kai is involved in Key Club, basketball, and baseball. Kai’s favorite year games. was his senior year, by far. If he could start school over again, he would do better in school and give it all he has in sports. After high school, Kai plans to attend Williams Baptist University. Kai’s nickname is “Nuthead.” Brighton’s Faves: Nash Gill’s App - Snapchat Kai’s Favorites Pizza topping – What’s Hot /What’s Not? App – Snapchat Sausage What’s Hot What’s Not Pizza Topping – Movie – The Hangover Seniors Freshmen Pepperoni Class – Journalism III Class of 2020 Class of 2019 Class – Journalism Drink – Red Bull Summer Winter Drink – Sweet Tea T.V. Show – Band – Football Baseball The Ben Brand Band Criminal Minds Summer break Going to work Food – Store – Buckle Late Nights School Nights Food – Pizza Chicken and Cheese Backroads City Roads Holiday – Christmas Holiday – Christmas Sumo’s Fuji’s Restaurant – Sumo’s Restaurant – Yeti Coleman Ice Cream – Vanilla Upper Crust Senior Skip Day Finals Celebrity Crush – April 30th May 24th Kate Upton Our WRHS 7 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Kalaab is One of a Kind Liv Bick is Finishing Strong By Erin Hicks By Livvie Howard Who is this 18-year-old? Olivia Rose Bickers is Son of Meris Satner, brother of 18, born on November 11, 2000 Richard Manfeild and Anthony to Melinda and Roger Bickers. Tyner? Kalaab McCollum, a She has two siblings, Spencer senior at WRHS. (24) and Taylor (28). Her best Coming into high school friends are Taylor McGinty, he was afraid he would get into Kate Cole, Zack Osburn, Charles fights because of people with a Mabry and Slade Dalton. lot of drama which is his biggest Liv has attended WRHS pet peeve; now he fears failing for one year, transferring from financially. Jonesboro High School for Starting Walnut Ridge her senior year. Her favorite at the end of 9th grade, he is teacher is Mrs. Rice, who glad to be leaving. Mrs. Rob is “understands my humor and his favorite teacher. encourages me to write good Kalaab is most proud stories. “ of the computer skills he has Her most embarrassing learned from his programing moment at Walnut Ridge was classes. That’s also what he is getting ISS for cyberbullying. was an active member in FBLA, planning to study in college. Key Club and National Honor behind a train Kalaab has got out The accomplishment she is There are a few Society. She also served as a staff of a lot of tardies most proud of is getting All- advantages to leaving high American Cheerleader and writer for The Cat’s Dispatch. school, one of which is having being selected for National Olivia’s favorite year of more free time. Since he doesn't Honor Society. high school was her sophomore have to do busy work, now he Kalaab’s Favorites The advice that she has year and if she could start high school over, she wouldn’t change can play with his dog, Joker. Pizza topping – Cheese for underclassmen is, “Beware Kalaab's advice to of snakes” and her best excuse anything. Her biggest fear going underclassmen is to not slack Class – Math for being late to class was “I into high school was boys but her off; otherwise, the work piles Drink – Water was picking up Taylor!” biggest fear leaving is anyone who up and you will regret it. Using The one thing that Liv chews on toothpicks. the excuse that he was stuck Food – Mexican chicken could not live without is her Her plans for college sarcasm; her biggest pet peeve are to attend ASU and major in Tunes for Today are liars. The thing she will miss psychology. Her favorite quote about high school are all the is “can’t do it all day if you don’t By Skyla Henry nice people. At WRHS, Olivia start early”—Zack Osburn. Willow – Willow Smith, daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith, has changed much since she released Whip My Hair in 2010. She is Liv’s Favorites now 18 and her music is becoming hugely successful. Her genre is Movie: Cargo considered alternative R&B. Some of her best songs are Wait a Minute! Take it and Female Energy. Easy: Class – Journalism Kolton T.V. Show – Olgelsby Two Door Cinema Club – They are an Irish indie rock band who became looks back Game of Thrones famous after their 2010 album Tourist History. They recently released on his days Ice Cream – a new song called Talk. The band is composed of three members, Alex at WRHS Trimble, Sam Halliday and Calvin Baird. Some of their popular songs Chunky Monkey are Undercover Martyn and Something Good Can Work. played Clay in 13 Reasons Why. Food – Fries Their recently popular releases Entertainer – DaBaby Wallows – The Wallows are a relatively new band, releasing their first are Scrawny and Are You Bored Song – Act Up song in 2017, Pleaser became quite popular. They are an indie rock Yet? featuring Clairo. band with a unique sound. Their lead singer is actually the actor who Restaurant – Casey’s 8 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Our WRHS Fate Made Tate Who He is Today Finding the New Normal By Tate Anderson By Cade Burris For those of you who have never seen, met, or even heard of me, my name is Tate Anderson. I’m 18 years old and I have been going My name is Cade Burris there are so many good times to Walnut Ridge public schools my entire life. and I am a senior at Walnut Ridge that will be missed. For the By the time you read this I will most likely be living out my last High School. I have attended underclassmen and up-and- moments at WRHS. With my 13 years of experience at this school, I school at Walnut Ridge for the coming seniors: Take it all in would like to impart to you, the reader, many helpful tips that might past 13 years. This town and this before it goes away. help you get through high school (I’m looking at you, freshmen). school are all that I have ever When looking to the Ready? Here we go! been around in my life. future there is very little that Let’s start with the hard stuff. My first, and maybe most For these years the same is certain; from what major to important, piece of advice is “Do your schoolwork.” I’m not sure how routine has been present every choose to your roommate you I can stress this enough, so I am going to say it again in all caps: DO fall, winter, and spring. With my will be stuck with for the rest of YOUR SCHOOLWORK. senior year coming to an end, I the year. Or even worse, like me, If you do not do your schoolwork, you will flunk out which have had plenty of opportunities still trying to choose a college to means bad grades on your transcript and no diploma. I’m one of the to look back upon all of my attend in the fall. guiltiest for not doing my work. There are grades on my high school experiences as well as looking While all of these things transcript that I will never be able to change because I thought forward to new ones. are scary and overwhelming, playing video games and watching YouTube were more important There are very few things they hold a promise into the than getting that stamp from Mrs. Mayfield or making a hundred on that I would change other than bright future that is yet to come that chemistry test. taking in all of the moments for the graduating class of 2019. I wish I could say that it’s gonna be easy and that you’ll love throughout high school. From It’s time we all try and get used every second of it - but the truth is, it won’t and you’re not. You’re football Friday nights to five to what is going to become our just gonna have to learn the stuff, get the grade, and muscle through games of baseball in a week – “new normal.” it. Who knows, maybe out of the boring or hard schoolwork you might learn to love and enjoy math (thank you, Mrs. Foster.) My second piece of advice is “be the nicest kid on campus.” It doesn’t matter if you’re black or white, rich or poor, nerdy or “jocky”; you should try to be nicer than every person you come into contact with. Being polite allows you to pretty much be friends with everybody at school from the jocks on the football team to the nerds on the chess team (no offense, chess team) to even the teachers. One of the many non-curricular things that Walnut Ridge has taught me is how to treat people. I was bullied in elementary Music Man: Senior and middle school - most likely because I wasn’t like everyone else. Jackson Forrester takes a I didn’t like sports, I didn’t hunt or fish much and I was just weird in break from grilling to kidk general. back with his guitar. I would sit in the corner, playing my Nintendo DS, and hum ming songs to myself rather than play four-square or tether-ball. All of those years of bullying eventually resulted in me bursting out in a rage against other kids, which didn’t help. I learned that I probably shouldn’t be treating people this way. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus says “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” which was inherently hard for me. With time, I got accustomed to controlling my anger and being a better person. Believe it or Not: If you are being bullied, definitely don’t be afraid to ask Seniors Cade Burris, Slade for outside help, but also be able to stand up for yourself in a calm Dalton and Zack Osburn manner. share a few laughs as My third and last piece of advice is “cherish every moment they count the days until from now until graduation. graduation. Our WRHS 9 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 It’s Starting to Sink in Farmer’s Farewell By Jordyn Jones By Bryson Farmer

Underclassmen, let your time in high school be the best My high school years have flown by in the moments of your life. Soak up every little detail. Slow down and look blink of an eye. I have attended Walnut Ridge for at the view. the past 12 years, making a lot of memories that I One day you’ll be at your last Friday night football game, last prom or will cherish for the rest of my life. Winter Ball, or your last club meeting. I remember walking into the kindergarten hall One day you’ll have your last game with your team or you’ll as a terrified six-year-old and not really knowing receive your last report card. what to think. I have enjoyed living in a small One day you’ll be lined up in alphabetical order wearing your community and attending a small school. cap and gowns. Looking back on my time at WRHS, I have Let your in time in high school sink in and make the best of it, enjoyed everything about our school and I hate because one day you’ll be saying your last good-byes and wishing you that my time here is coming to an end. could rewind time. I will never forget those Friday Night Lights when everyone in town came to the games and supported our team and would go crazy after every big play. Remembering the Glory Days Lastly, I would like to thank all of my teachers and coaches for By Tyler Cunningham pushing me to be the best I can be, not only on the field or court but most importantly, the classroom. I have attended WRHS since my sophomore year. I used to play sports, I was really good. We won lots of championships in Living with No Regrets baseball, mostly Little League in the old days. By Chase Moseley My freshman year feels like it was yesterday, coming out of middle school. I still enjoy playing basketball with my buddies. As my final year comes my ups and down, and I made a Honestly, I will not miss school one bit! I will miss the free to an end, I have some things few mistakes, but I don’t regret time I had during high school. I spent way too much time in the gym. I would like to say. I came to anything I have done. I learned I’m beginning to realize that most of all, I will miss my buddies. Walnut Ridge from Tuckerman from my mistakes and have The biggest lesson I learned was: don’t fail tests. Something the summer of my ninth grade become a much better person. that underclassmen should do that I did not, is do better in school: year. I had some grievances What I hope all of my study and make good grades. with Tuckerman and some of the underclassmen take away from I didn’t think it would be as hard. Instead of just turning in people there, so I left. all of this is, that no matter what anything for homework; you actually have to try! In high school it is I just want to thank all of you do in life, do not regret serious. You do badly on a paper, your grade tanks. my true friends at Walnut Ridge anything you do. Enjoy school I am just ready to get to college where I will have more free for making the last three years while you are here and live your time. I mean, like in middle school you could do bad on homework as amazing as they were. I had life to the fullest. and teacher would still pass you. Middle school was way easier. Surviving Freshman Year By Ty Flippo

I might not be the best If you just do your work student to give advice about and don’t get lazy, you will be going through the ninth grade fine. There were times when I got but here are some things to keep lazy and my grades suffered. Just in mind. As 8th graders you might make sure to pay attention in Dr. be stressing about your first year Holloway’s and don’t use photo of high school. I thought it would math in algebra. be hard and that I would like Some things that help people a lot is going to physical Life is Good: Senior Mason middle school better but it’s not, McEntire enjoys fun in the sun. high school is way better. science tutoring before the test. 10 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Current Events Live and Learn What are You Looking Forward By Garrett Brown to this Summer? By Chloe Brown My time during high to do my work, chances were I school was different every year. wouldn’t even touch it. Bo Johnson – Swimming Haley Smart – Hanging out with For example, my freshman year: Once in ISS, you’re faced Emily Gray – Sleeping in friends and sleeping in I hated every second of it, but with work from all your classes so Jenny Davis – The lake Jonathan Alba – Working out once I got into my sophomore that you stay busy while you serve Chaley Ervin – The beach everyday year, I kind of liked it. I never your time - in silence. In a room - Mrs. Ross – Playing with my Chloe Brown – Sleeping in, paid enough attention to my that’s freezing. granddaughter and going to the vacation, and no school schedule but I seemed to have Another time I got into beach Roger King – had a lot of free time, unlike a fight or something and I got Katie Jones – Sleeping in Bonfires on the river middle school. At the same time, suspended, which I didn’t mind Bryleigh Morris – No school Cameron Caldwell - Getting I also had more homework, of because I was out of school - but Danielle Denham – Riding with money for mowing. which I was never a fan. the thing about that is: you don’t the windows down and jamming Andrew Hill - “I get to ride on a I began to like high get to make up any of the work Bailey Mashburn - Go to Mexico train!” school because I felt like I was assigned while you’re gone. So beginning my journey toward my grades weren’t the best, but Bobcats for Life the end of school. I just hated in all reality, they were never very getting up and going so much. good. By Malachi Tinker I would skip school every time I had the chance. During my time as I know that’s every kid’s a Bobcat, I have had many intention; they just don’t want opportunities, but one of the to go to school, but I like to best decisions I ever made think I put more effort into it was jumping at the chance than most. to become “Paws.” Paws, One time I told my mom the Bobcat mascot, is part of I had a fever so when she gave with the cheer squad. me a thermometer to take my When Mrs. Mary temperature I ran scalding hot asked me to be Paws, I water over it so it showed a thought it was going be easy really high temperature. I got to and boring, but I was in for a skip school that day. surprise. Although it was a hot, smelly, and tiring job, I still had fun. I I have had ups and made new friends from Hannah Wade to Lilly Maple, to every one of downs throughout school. For the cheerleaders. example, I have been in trouble, Road trips with the cheer team and the band were some of but I have also gotten awards the best times I ever had in high school. As Paws I learned to trust, for being a good kid in school. laugh, and be there for those who needed me. All the good awards went away My favorite part of being the mascot was seeing the little kids once I got into high school and I smiling, knowing that someone dressed up in a suit as a big cat could think that’s partly because I had bring such a big smile. more freedom. When I am in that suit, I do not have to worry about what I do, One time, I got in how I do it, or when I do it. I’m just there to entertain the crowd and trouble for Juuling in school; cheer on the Bobcats. Whether it’s football season or basketball pep I got caught by my agri rallies, Paws is there to keep everyone pumped for the team. teacher. I got five days of in- The downside is I can’t say a single word. I couldn’t be more school suspension (ISS) for my thankful to have had the chance to be Paws. punishment, but it was okay with me because I had work from my classes I needed to Wolves Up: Seniors Olivia Bickers and Kate Cole are work on. And if I wasn’t forced looking forward to being ASU Red Wolves in just a few months. Current Events 11 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Final Goodbyes Lessons Learned By Dakota Girard By Olivia Bickers “One day, you’re 17 and you are planning for During my time in high school, I’ve managed to maintain a someday. And then quietly, without you ever really great academic standing and still have my fair share of fun. There are noticing, someday is today. And then someday is many lessons I’ve learned, like don’t wait until the last minute to do yesterday. And this is your life.” my work or always allot time for a social life outside of school. After During my high school career I made the greatest graduation, I plan to keep up my success in school, but will probably friends that I could have ever made. I stepped out take a break from my cyberbullying and physical abuse to boys named of my comfort zone just enough to join a few clubs Slade. throughout high school. I’m planning on rushing in the fall and joining a sorority to My most memorable moments in high school ensure my good standing with Arkansas State University. In the came from being in the school band. Mr. Long summer I’ll continue to work at my current job at Cheers Unlimited taught me not only to be a better clarinetist, but a better person in coaching young girls to cheer. I’m most excited for growing my general. Being in band, I made new friends each year. friendship with one of my smartest friends, and future suite mate, I highly recommend underclassmen to step out of their Kate Cole. comfort zones and try new things. In between my sophomore and Throughout my high school experience I’ve had many junior year I got a job. My junior year was difficult as I tried to handle challenges, but have learned the most during my senior year, and my job, schoolwork, and band but that’s because I procrastinated. I would like to thank Walnut Ridge for welcoming me with the most do not recommend anybody to procrastinate. open arms! It is finally the end of my senior year and we only have a few I’ve learned to make new friends, try new things, and that days left. All I can think about lately is the future. What story does honesty is always the best policy! My advice to underclassmen would my future hold? That is the one question I haven’t answered yet. be to just go with the flow, and try your hardest to not slap anyone. I am going to BRTC then transferring to ASU – Jonesboro to pursue an Ecology degree. We all have a story to tell and everybody’s story is told differently. My experience throughout high school is full of many Poetry in April things but, good advice is not one. I listened in class, made good by Skyla Henry and Maggie Gibson grades, did my part as a high school student. As I look back on my last three years of high school, I wish I had more fun. I do not regret On April 26th here at Walnut Ridge High School, the English anything though. department at WRHS celebrated National Poetry Month by creating My best advice to give anyone is to cherish every moment custom poems and bringing them to life. like it is your last moment. Do not wait until it is the last minute to do We all got to go outside and write our own poems with chalk on anything. the sidewalks of the school. We used our own choice of colors and decorations, such as a personalized drawing of what our poem represented. We all had a great time going out into the nice weather and getting to write poetry.

You’re Gonna Miss This... The seniors celebrate their last day of high school with a cookout on the front lawn. Cade Burris, Jackson Forrester and Dylan Aaron cooked steaks, brats, hamburgers and hot dogs. Nick Foster prepared peach and apple cobblers in Dutch ovens. Other students provided chips, drinks and desserts. 12 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Current Events Why So Sad? Suicide Occurs at The Outlook on Teen Depression Concord High By Maggie Gibson School By Haley Smart Each year there are 19-year-old Sydney Aiello, was roughly about 140,000 teen found dead on March 17. Just a suicides just in the United couple of days later, a sophomore On Wednesday, April 24, States alone, along with who was in the classroom while an eighth grader at Concord High 1,400,000 attempts. The causes three were shot dead took her School shot and killed himself are endless; it could be a own life too. Due to her age, her in the cafeteria bathroom. The major disappointment, stress, name was not released. child, whose name has not been depression, substance abuse, Then, it was a father of released, was 14-years-old. traumatic experiences, anything a little girl who lost her life over Officials dismissed honestly. six years ago in the shooting at school Wednesday, Thursday, About 40 percent of Sandy Hook, Jeremy Richman. and Friday due to the shooting. all teenagers will suffer from He struggled with depression School was to begin again depression. But 70 to 80 percent after his little girl passed away. Monday, April 29 with grief of all teens will experience at As you can see, counselors on the campus. least one depressive episode in depression is everywhere. It’s The police are looking their life. basically inside of everyone, and into the incident further to Depression is a thing that more and more teenagers are see if the suicide was caused Senior Jordyn Jones by bullying or other serious arrives as her classmates gather to people of all ages experience. succumbing to it. The numbers celebrate their last day on campus. Over the years, studies have keep growing and no one really matters. shown that the depression and knows how to stop it. Cleburne County is suicide rate of not only teens, There are traumatic where Heber Springs and Greers but everyone, has increased things that happen to people Ferry Lake are located. drastically. every day that we don’t have any People from around the control over. If you happen to be Students Receive CPR Certification world suffer from it; some seek one of the many that suffer from help in hopes of getting better, this, trust me, many others are By Max Hibbs while others choose to deal with also suffering from it. You aren’t it themselves. alone. Recently three innocent If you have concerns, you people decided to take their lives. could always talk to someone, a Two of them were survivors from counselor of some sort, someone the devastating school shooting you trust, you could even call the in Parkland, Florida. They each Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255. suffered from survivors’ guilt and Just know that you aren’t alone. PTSD. There are many other people out A recent graduate, there to support you.

Students in Mrs. Howard’s Family and Consumer Science classes recently completed the training to receive their CPR certifications. Pictured with their certificates are (back row) Left to Right: Cody Colburn, Danielle Stover, Hunter Stafford, Cameron Robertson, Kyle West, One is Silver and Triston Voyles, Jesse McLaughlin and Blade Fisher. Seated in front: Catherin the other’s Gold: Finney, Jemimah Akpan, Sidney Robinson, Faith Mills and Leah Malewski. Forever Bobcats Taylor Not pictured but also receiving certifications from the American Heart McGinty and Zack O Association for Adult, Child, and Infant CPR, AED, and First Aid from Mrs. Diana (far left and far right) Howard’s Family and Consumer Science classes; Rhoni Riggs, Kaylan Decker, made lifetime friends Manuela Akpan, Cameron Caldwell, Drey Hibbard, Briana Jones, Madison with Charles Mabry and Jones, Carmen Lane, Shayna O’Brien and Raelea Vampran. Olivia Bickers, both first- Special thanks to school nurse Stephanie Nichols for instructing the year seniors at WRHS students. Current Events 13 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 New Classes Offered at WRHS Make the Most of High School By Jacob Slankard By Victoria Swindle Walnut Ridge High School has announced the new courses I’ve experienced many things since entering high school. I’ve being offered next fall for grades 9-12. learned who my friends and my enemies are and how to gain the trust Introduction to Criminal Justice prepares students to perform of students and teachers alike. the duties of police and public security officers. Sudents who take this One thing that will stay with me is knowing “despite everything class will be able to earn one credit toward the total 24 credits needed that happens, things get better.” I, myself, have faced many hardships to graduate. This course is available for grades 9 through 12. in high school, but I’ve found that as long as you focus on the good Child Care Guidance, Management, and Services is available things then everything will come out alright. for grade levels 10 through 12. The total amount of credit students Just don’t let go of all of those good memories, the trips you’ll will be able to earn is one credit. This course will provide students go on, and the friends you will make. with information in the occupational field of child care guidance, After high school, most of that won’t matter anyways. That management, and services. one chick who was always talking smack, or the guy who rejected you; ACT Prep and Workkeys will provide individuals with practice none of that will matter. You’ll be gone after graduation anyways. on the ACT English, Reading, and Math. The total amount of credit You’ll make new friends and new memories in college. students will be able to earn is 1/2 credit. This course is available for There are some who will actually miss high school, like me. grade levels 11 through 12. I think that the best way to move forward is to just strive to make The Jonesboro High School Career and Technical Center even better memories. Meet new people and enjoy a new side of life. (formerly known as Vo-Tech) is offering courses for students in Remember the good times you had here, but don’t let it stop you from grades 10th through 12th. This is the first year this is being offered to making new memories with new people. sophomores at WRHS. Students can earn two elective credits, but the classes are morning only, from 2nd through 4th periods. BRTC is offering TOPSS programs for students who are in 11th Magic Johnson’s Disappearing Act and 12th grade and are able to provide their own transportation to and By Olivia Ford from BRTC. The courses will teach students valuable trade skills. On the basketball court, Earvin “Magic” Johnson was one team, joining Bird and Michael of the game’s most entertaining Jordan on the USA’s gold meda- WRHS Class of 2019 players. He burst onto the NBA winning Dream Team at the 1992 scene as a rookie with the Los Olympics. Angeles Lakers, earning MVP However, his work for honors in the playoffs, teaming the Lakers on the sidelines and with Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul in the front office have paled in Jabbar, to defeat the Philadelphia comparison to his exploits on 76ers. the court. Magic’s attempt at At 6 feet 9 inches, Magic coaching the Lakers in 1993 ended towered over other point guards abruptly after five wins and 11 and was able to consistently post losses in only 16 games. them up when he was not leading The once proud Lakers just the vaunted “Show Time” Lakers failed to make the playoffs for the fast break. With his leadership sixth straight season. Just when abilities and talented teammates, the owner, team, and fans need the Lakers won five titles in the someone (hint—Magic Johnson, It’s a Small World: 1980s. the president of basketball Aaron Schapira of Belgium Magic’s basketball will graduate with the operations) to deal with contracts, WRHS Class of 2019. achievements were not limited to lead the team to a successful draft, the NBA. Earlier, he led Michigan and help lure talented free agents State to an NCAA tournament to join LeBron James as he return Call Me Mabry: title defeating Larry Bird’s Indiana to glory—the always talkative Charles Mabry is all smiles State team. After he retired, he Magic Johnson only had two knowing that his days in high school are behind was a member of the greatest words for all to hear—“I quit.” him. collection of players ever on one 14 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 Senior Wills By Grady Privett the field; to Andrew Brewer, a Smelser, the title of being the rope; to Johnathan Alba, top I, Claire new celebration partner; to Isaiah new cheer captain; to Mrs. Mary spot on the weight room board; Fisher, being of Mabry, the football run out chant Smith, a new student who doesn’t to Dagan Lillard, my dad jokes; sound mind and and lastly, to Walnut Ridge High leave her class but one period a to Mason Andrews, Noah Roark, body, do hereby School, the best of luck getting day; to Mr. Hynes, a new student and Landon Brady, my position leave to Reece rid of the rest of the high school aide; to Jenny Davis, a new back as representative of White Oak Archer, a new students. spot and many more tricks in the Baptist Church. softball warm I, Slade Dalton, being of air; to Bailey Augustine, many I, Garrett Brown, being of up partner; to sound mind and body, do hereby more great ball years; to Jacey sound mind and body, do hereby Grady Privett, leave to Nash Gill, my position as Jones, confidence in her ball leave to Mason all of my anger so he can have Kru leader and a new weekend skills; to the basketball team, a Ashlock, the endless rants; to Hannah buddy; to Eli Biggers, someone new manager; to Alexis Dalton, a ability to get Wade, my student athlete work new to look up to and my catching whole lot of threes and to Coach state records in schedule; to Mollie Blackshear ability; to Isaac Biggers, my Halbrook, winning seasons and weightlifting. and Bryleigh Morris, a new lunch superior shoe game; to Connor championship games. I, Ashleigh hide out; to Holly Berry, a post- Manning, my lethal three-point I, Nathan Brown, being of Morris, being game bus buddy and my game shooting ability; to Cody McEntire, sound mind and body, do hereby of sound mind day rock’n’roll playlist; to Coach my fishing pole; to Gavin Davis, leave to Grady and body, do Fisher, a good teacher’s aide for trap crew captain spot; to Trevor Privett, my hereby leave to his prep period and somebody Smith, my parking spot by the bench max; Bryleigh Morris, the motivation to to yell at him in-between classes; field house; to Logan Blackwood, to Sam Lewis, not drop out; to Mollie Blackshear, to Mr. Harper, somebody to my height; to Johnathan Alba, the ability to the ability to put up with Bry come say ‘Good Morning’ and my tackling ability; to Andrew snap the ball; without me; to Robby, someone ‘Have a good day’ every day; to Brewer, a new number one target to Peyton to throw her grade book at; to Coach Coffman, a cup holder; on the field; to Grady Privett, my Callahan, a Rice, a new bestie (I know I’m volleyball and softball teams, cheetah-like speed; to Cannon solo in Jazz irreplaceable); to Grady Privett, infinite dubs and to Kai Fisher, Baker, my second born child to band; to Seth someone else to rant to; to Katie, the title of “Fisher” given by Mr. have and love; to Cole Manning, Rounsavall, my attitude, roast sessions, and late Haynes and any leftover high my awful skill at picking women; mellophonium; to Tristin Hart, nights; to Alexis Dalton and Anna school knowledge I might have to Landon Sain, my lifting abilities a working shoulder; to Andrew Claire, a third member to the trio; left. and a new work out partner; to Brewer, a roll of bubble wrap; to Heidi Moore, a new girlfriend I, Cade Mike Steele, my spot as practice to Blane Wade, loyalty to the to help her up; to Livvie Howard, Burris, being squad captain; to Sam Lewis, my lineman and to Mason Ashlock, Sonic runs and to Holly Berry, of sound blocking ability; to Kyle Russell, my football locker. someone else to stare at Harry mind and my spot in left field; to Will Davis, I, Malachi Tinker, being of Styles with. body, do my spot as Bramlett’s favorite; sound mind and body, do hereby I, Drew Brewer, being of hereby leave to Walker Hibbs, my locker in leave to Peyton Callahan or Austin sound mind and body, do hereby to Nash the gym; to Garrison Doyle, my Stover, my parking spot. leave to Grady Privett, a new arm Gill, a set of comb for your mullet; to Mason I, Baylee Davis, being of rest in band; to Kailey Blazer, good knees Andrews, any position as a Rep sound mind and body, do hereby another stud like myself and to and ankles; for White Oak at the school; to leave to Kaci Kirksey, Luke Combs Joseph Rogers, my diploma. to Mrs. Noah Roark, a new baby sitter; jam sessions; to Hailey Jensen, I, Tate Anderson, being Rice, a new sports editor; to to Brandon Bethany, my crown; a new base; to Shyanne Foley, of sound mind and body, do Landon Sain, my squat max; and to Parker Brand, some gum I superstitions and a two ball hereby leave to Hailey Jensen, all to Mr. Haynes, a new favorite found. partner; to Katie Kersey, Red Bulls of my decks of cards; to Mollie student; to Cole Manning, my I, Taylor McGinty, being of and the aux on the bus; to Andrew Blackshear, all of my card playing football locker and 1500 rushing sound mind and body, do hereby Prestidge, advice and after church skills and tricks; to Dagan Lillard yards; to Connor Manning, the leave to Kaci Kirksey, great cheer dates; to Chloe Davis, throw and Logan Blackwood, the Tenor clamps for every team’s best memories and new friends; to downs; to Livvie Howard, rant line; to Grady Privett, the position player; to Cannon Baker, a new Ethan McGinty, a great high school sessions and to Holly Berry, post- of Band Council President; to nickname other than Shannon experience; to the cheer team, game hugs. Chase Ervin, my mains in Super or Nerb; to Coach Ward, a new a great season; to the volleyball I, Nick Foster, being of Smash Bros; to Hunter Henry, my safety/linebacker/corner back/ team, another great year and two sound mind and body, do hereby cymbal and tambourine playing outside linebacker/coach on more great supporters; to Maci leave to Grady Privett, my jump skills; to Mady McGinnis, my love 15 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 By Grady Privett Anime & More Anime Angel’s Feather By Abbigale Rounsavall It begins when Hamura Shou, twin brother of Kai Misonou, comes to Yuusei Academy as a sports student. The Boy and the Beast ` The story branches out to tell the truth behind Hamura’s Kyuuta is a young orphan who lives on the streets of Shibuya, past as well as Kai’s. It also portrays shōnen-ai between Kai and his who stubbles into an amazing world of beasts. Kyuuta is taken in by supposed to be friend, Nagi. Kai had forgotten about his older twin Kumatetsu, a gruff, rough-around- the-edges warrior beast. brother so Shou went looking for him. Kumatetsu has been looking for the perfect apprentice and he thinks Kyuuta is the one. Despite their constant bickering, they both begin training and they slowly begin to form a bond as a surrogate father and son. The Promised Neverland Many children live at an isolated orphanage hidden away from the outside world. They all live what they think is a happy life surrounded Kiss Him, Not Me by friends and under the care of Mama. Kae Serinuma is what you would call a “fujoshi.” She loves when The only rule of the orphanage is that they must never go she sees any boys getting along. One day her favorite anime character outside the gate, for there is said to be danger out there. Until one day, dies and the shock causes her to lose a lot of weight. Four hot guys at the children learn the true horror of what’s in store for their short lives. her school ask her out but she doesn’t want to be with them. She wants them to be with each other.

for the Marvel Cinematic Universe and my ukulele skills; to Skylar to Mrs. Mary, a new Banking and Picture This: Louthan, my spot on the Jazz Financial Systems team; to Chase Hole in Space-Time Band; to Hannah Hatfield, the Ervin, perfect pitch; to Skyla Henry, everlasting nickname “Hanners”; ‘Stuart Little’ on Blue-Ray; to Abby By Jacob Buxton to Parker Papi, a reserved table Rounsavall, a less depressing list in the lunchroom; to Trishton of anime recommendations;to Black holes are one of the biggest mysteries in the study of Wilson and Jacob Buxton, the Rome McEntire, better coding space and its mechanics. Black holes consume everything, including keyboard in Mrs. Rice’s room competition partners; to Mrs. Rob, light, and therefore cannot be photographed. and to Livvie Howard, the correct an underclassman to have therapy Until recently, the appearance of a black holes have been pronunciation of your first name with 4th period; to Zachary debated. A few weeks ago, the Event Horizon Telescope team captured until the end of time. Caspall, a long relationship; to and released the first ever picture of a black hole. I, Kaiden Stormes, being Quinn Carson, an in-depth guide The team got the now-famous picture by pointing six of sound mind and body, do to playing top lane; to Mike Steele, telescopes that were spread across five different continents. These hereby leave to a new set of earbuds; to Cannon telescopes were aimed at the same point in space for a whole week in Dagan Lillard, a Baker, an even longer mullet; to April last year. passing grade Adam Granger, a nicer sister; to Rather than capture the black hole itself, the team measured on his driver’s Mattie Craig, cooler friends in the influence from the black hole, including the event horizon, the test; to Mollie Spanish; to James Allred, the new spot in which the black hole’s gravity gets too strong for even light to Blackshear and Parker Papi ‘Fudge’ game in music; escape. Hailey Jensen, to Savannah Nelson, the picture of Now that the team had the data from the telescopes, they the Editor-in- Drew Brewer in your clothes and needed a way to store it all. They had used several hard drives to store Chief title; to a wig and to Mrs. Hallman, an ear all of it. In the end, all of the data from the telescopes amounted to Mrs. Rice, an hair consent form. over five petabytes of information. organized desk; I, Graham West, being They also needed a way to read the data. So, Katherine to Trishton Wilson, a memorial of sound mind and body, do Bouman having worked on a similar project called CHIRP (Continuous plaque for Author; to Tyler Ditto, a hereby leave to Dagan Lillard, High-resolution Image Reconstruction using Patch priors) was called well-deserved Bronze III; to Livvie EVERYTHING. in to help. Howard, a Baja Blast Freeze for 4th I, Olivia Bickers, being of When all is said and done, these people and this program have period; to Skylar Louthan, a secret sound mind and body, do hereby made an incredible contribution to the understanding of space. undiscovered slap bass technique; leave. to Jacob Buxton, a new laptop; 16 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, May 15, 2019 The End What’s Your Favorite Season? – from 2019 Seniors (in 2010)

“In order to be old and wise, you must first be young and crazy” – unknown These 2019 seniors have come to the end of their days at WRHS, but once upon a time they were wee, elementary students. Thanks to Mrs. Jennifer Biggers, literacy specialist at WRES, for sharing these photos and essays written by seniors as third graders. The spelling and grammatical errors are their own.

“The extrodonary season I like the best is Winter... My “First one your out favorite thing to do is of school!! There’s no play with my friends, math, no science, and snowball fight, no trying to think hard. sledding, and after “This is why I don’t like Your free! Also you drinking hot coco.” spring, winter, and fall. I don’t have to do what – Zack Osburn don’t like them because the teachers tell you you have to go to school, to do.” you can’t sleepin, you – Brighton Brand can’t ride my horse “The things I like to do in Fall are (earlier stated it’s name jump in leav piles, wear warm was coacoa), and you chlotes, and play foot ball.” can’t go swiming.” –Claire Fisher – Jackson Forrester

Apparently, the dog ate “My favorit season is Cade Burris’ homework. summer becase it is warm you never won’t to wear jeans in summer.” –Liley Holsapple “My last reson is becuse babys are bore in late spring and erly summer.” – Drew Brewer

“I love playing in water, unless if it has anything in it besides “I like to jump in the people.” snow and crale threw it – Slade Dalton if it is deep enofe to.” – CJ Couch

“It is like this. It is chilli, or cold,

“Summer is hot, butterful, I like the cold. Also usually it is Foster Nick and Fisher Claire “And I like to sleep sleeping is

and grassy.” rainy. mostly it is wet.” – Tyler Hudson Students: Mystery to Answers good for you.” – Nathan Brown – Taylor McGinty