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Walnut Ridge, Arkansas Lawrence County School District www.bobcats.k12.ar.us November 20, 2019 12 pages Vol. 45 Issue No. 3 ~ Walnut Ridge High School supplement to The Times Dispatch since 1976 ~ 2019 Bobcats Celebrate Legendary Homecoming By Hannah Wade During Homecoming week, signs Senior Maid in a silver Corvette, driven by were made, faces were painted, and lots of Malessie Lamb with Boston and Sylis as memories were made. Our big day started passengers. Maid of Honor Katie Kersey, off by everyone gathering in the gym taking rode in a white Corvette driven by her dad, club pictures and then playing the long- Jacob Kersey with former classmate, Cade missed Homecoming games. Raglin. After breaking for lunch, despite Finally, Queen Sydney Burgin rode the rain, the parade began. Parade line up in a dark grey Corvette with her pages, started at 12:30 leading off with the fire and Macy Rose Broadway and Kam Thielemier; police cars, followed but the Pride band, she was driven by her father and brother. clubs, cheer, Alleycats, and the Bobcat After the parade, the homecoming football team. royalty were announced and Sydney was The royalty started off with Karlee crowned. Due to the rain, the crowd moved Brewer as Freshman Maid. Karlee rode in a inside the gym for the pep rally. burnt orange Corvette with her dad driving That night, the royalty were again and her brother, Andrew riding passenger. annouced before the game. This time they Next was Chloe Davis, Sophomore Maid. were escorted by their fathers. Chloe was driven by her parents in a red The game against Harrisburg ended Corvette. Junior maid was Chloe Bounds, the with a 44-15 loss. Harrisburg took who rode in a red Mercedes driven by home the win but the Bobcats took home Homecoming 2019: Queen Sydney Burgin (center) is Michele Mullen. the memories. surrounded by her court. From left: Hannah Wade, Chloe Hannah Wade, was next in line as Davis, Chloe Bounds, Karlee Brewer and Katie Kersey. Pages, Macy Rose Broadway and Kam Thielemieir, are Xander Shows the True Meaning of standing in the front. Homecoming

WRHS students were You’re Invited: WinterBall 2019 reminded of the true meaning of ‘Homecoming” when Xander Layton, a student at WRHS, made a surprise A Winter Stroll Down Main appearance at the pep rally. Xander sustained critical spinal December 14th, 2019 injuries this summer and has been a patient at Arkansas Children’s Hospital The Studio on Main St. since the July accident. He plans to resume classes in January. Grand March starts at 7 p.m. Pictured with him and his (Receiving line starts at 6:15 p.m.) dad are principal, Jacob Kersey, Josh

Porter, Andrew Hill and Jon Alba. Public is welcome. Admission is free. By Nash Gill 2 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20, 2019 Our WRHS The Symbolism of the Semicolon By Bryleigh Morris The semicolon is often used as a punctuation mark to indicate a pause in a sentence. The semicolon tattoos, however, are used to support people dealing with anxiety, depression, suicide and other mental illness. The semicolon has a much deeper meaning than just a form of punctuation; it’s a sign of hope that we have the power to move forward. “A semicolon represents a sentence the author could have ended, but chose not to. That author is you and the sentence is your life.” The Semicolon Project started as a one-day event in April of 2013, by founders Charlee Chandler and Matthew Wills. They encouraged people to post pictures of semicolons drawn on their wrist to the internet to support suicide prevention. It was very successful and the project is ongoing, with April 16th as an annual day of awareness. What Are You Most Thankful For? By Kel Slusser

Ty Flippo – Not Korwin Olivia Ford – God Hailey Jensen – Jesus Cody Gray – Everything Isaiah Mabry – Mom, God and Gavin Davis – Not being a woman Mystery Students Athleticism Jayden Hollister – Friends by Gavin Davis Grady Privett – Family Anna Saffell – Naps Andres Marin – Family Rhoni Riggs – Friends She’s anything but fake Meathead’s the name Some might call her Snowflake Kanye West’s New Way of Life Football’s the game She’s part of a dancing organization By Parker Papi If you don’t wear Gym Shark You’re a shame She’s in the junior year of her Kanye West has recently become more active spiritually. West’s education new album is called Jesus is King; he started Sunday Service in January 2019. Sunday Service has been held every Sunday, including the Sunday when the album dropped. Cat’s Dispatch Staff Sunday Service started out in an enclosed rehearsal space, then Co-Editors — Mollie Blackshear and Hailey Jensen moved to a series of secret locations including the Adidas headquarters Sports Editor — Olivia Ford and secluded fields in Calabasas, California or Wyoming. At the beginning, the event was by invitation-only, after a little while, it became Cartoonist — Kayleene Long open to the public at venues across the country, both sacred and non- Layout & Design - Anna Saffell sacred. Jesus is Lord was released on October 25. Songs included Closed on Sunday, Jesus is Lord. In Closed on Sunday West sings “Closed on Sunday, you my Chick-Fil-A…” Jesus is Lord is the shortest song on the Staff Writers — Grady Privett, Mattie Craig, Hannah Wade, Jacob Buxton, album at just 49 seconds. Maddie Flippo, Mady McGinnis, Chloe Brown, Gavin Davis, Ty Flippo, Haley Smart, Kaylan Decker, Cody Gray, Chris Gulledge, Andrew Hill, Isaiah Mabry, Connie Lane, Disclaimer: The views expressed in this paper are those of the authors Andres Marin, Skyla Henry, Rhoni Riggs, Kel Slusser, Skyla Henry, Maggie Gibson, named, and are not necessarily those of The Cat’s Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School or any other students/employees. While we try to Ray Yang, Roger King, Abby Rounsavall, Kyle Russell, Austin Stover Kayleene Long, ensure that the information we provide is correct, we are a student Haley Matthews, Bryleigh Morris, Parker Papi, Cameron Robertson, Sydney Robinson, newspaper, mistakes do occur and we cannot always guarantee the accuracy of our material. If you do notice mistakes, please let us know. and Bailee Witt We welcome letters to the editor or guest writers. Contact Stacy Rice, advisor. 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, November 20 , 2019

When she was 10 years Holocaust old, she traveled to America where Rest in Peace, Mrs. Pratt she was reunited with her siblings Survivors’ in Washington D.C. Sadly, Starboin’s parents were executed Series at the Auschwitz Concentration By Grady Privett Camp and she barely remembers anything about them. On October 29, the Starobin went to grade Walnut Ridge AP English 11 school in the U.S. and then and 12 classes traveled to BRTC attended the University of Illinois to gain a peek into the worst to get her teaching degree. genocide in human history from After graduating college, she a person who experienced it was naturalized and became an first-hand. Ester Starobin was elementary school teacher. When just a young kid when Hitler and her children were born she took Mrs. Ginger Luther Pratt the Nazi regime took over her nine years off of teaching and took 6th grade Social Studies beloved homeland of Adelsheim, care of them. She first returned as Walnut Ridge Middle School Germany where her father’s a substitute, and then taught again family had resided for over 200 in a middle school. years. Eventually, she retired Music Recommendations Ester and her three and became a volunteer at the By Skyla Henry sisters did not have to experience Holocaust Museum in D.C. She I, Skyla Jade Henry, have Irvine, California. The lead singer the harsh conditions of the work now volunteers on a daily basis at decided to list for you some under- is Sameer Gadhia. camps, because her aunt had the museum where she shares her rated yet high quality musicians Will Joseph Cook – He is helped them escape to England story, she also travels across the and bands to bop to. You can trust a pop artist from England who is where they would be safe. nation telling people her story. me because my music taste is known for his vocals and bright superior. melodies. What Do You Want For Christmas? Videoclub – They are a Declan McKenna – He is By Kyle Russell French group made up of Adèle a 20 year old kid from England. Castillon and Matthieu Reynaud. His songs are often very political Coach Blake – New shoes Roger King – A rack (a term for Their music is upbeat and fun. and one of his most popular songs, Kobe Smith – New baseball glove $1,000) HalfNoise –They are an Brazil, is criticizing FIFA. Gracey Collins – Iphone 11 Plus Layre Berganzos – A motorcycle alternative rock band based in Cuco – He is the son of Savannah Nelson – A boyfriend Mrs. Ross – Family and friends to Nashville, and the musical project Mexican immigrants. His style Austin Stover – Lambo be happy and healthy of Zac Farro, the drummer of is very unique. He sings in both Sydney Burgin – Cole Manning Kinley Davis – MacBook Pro Paramore. English and Spanish throughout Jerzie McQuay – TV Lindsey Bateman – Ray-Bans Young the Giant – They his songs and has a broad variety are a rock band, formed in 2004 in of styles. What Was Your Favorite If You Could Go Anywhere for Halloween Costume as a Kid? Christmas, Where Would You Go? by Mady McGinnis By Isaiah Mabry Parker Papi – Sumo Wrestler Jacob Buxton – Bumble Bee Logan Sain – Bahamas Memphis Moore – Alaska Sydney Robinson – Minnie Mouse Kayleene Long – Pumpkin Jon Alba –Texas Alex Jones – Hawaii Mollie Blackshear – Hippy Abby Rounsaball – A mime Mrs. Rob – Paris France Chloe Davis – St-Lucia Kyle Russell – Mario Mason McGinnis – Ninja Mrs. Holland – Colorado Mari Thomas – Bahamas Austin Stover – Blue Power Chase Ervin – Cowboy Noah Roark – Texas Mollie Blackshear – Disney World Ranger Isaiah Mabry - The Grim Reaper Mrs. Brady – Bora Bora Nash Gill – North Pole Hailey Jensen – Pumpkin Anna Saffell - “One time I was a Katie Kersey – New York City Sydney Burgin – Hawaii Brandon Bethany – Batman care bear” Melanie Jones – Bora Bora Kel Slusser – Powhatan 4 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Class of 2020 Savannah Steals the Show With Peace and Harmony By Bailee Witt By Haley Smart Sydney Savannah Nelson was born March 26, Harmony Rayne Wells is 18 years 2002 to Mike and Sherry Nelson. Her brothers are old and was born April 28, 2001 to Alana Tyler, age 21, and Dalton, 19. Savannah has two Fears and Gary Fears. She has two brothers, cats and two dogs, her black lab named Riley, a Gage, 19 and Jimmy, 15. basset hound named Cooper, plus her cats, Hippie Harmony has attended Walnut Ridge and Midnight. for 10 years. Her most embarrassing moment Her best friends are Kailey Blazer, Grady Privett, was making her friend run into a slide and Zach Caspall, Jerzie McQuay, Dalton Nelson and chip his tooth. Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Drew Brewer. Her nicknames with her friends Pattin, who “helped her when she needed is Sav; her parents it’s Sissy. She has attended someone.” Walnut Ridge since pre-school. Some of Harmony’s best friends Savannah’s favorite teacher is Mr. Haynes are Angel Wilson, Daniel Woodard, Nathan because “he’s funny and makes me laugh when Simmons and Keith Cook. The accomplish- I don’t want to.” Her most embarrassing moment ment she is was coming to school after getting mad at Trevor. Harmony’s Faves most proud She is most proud of her grades in AP classes. of is managing to keep A’s and B’s Advice she has for underclassmen is do “not get App – Snapchat throughout high school. caught up on the little things”, and her advice for high school is not to Store – Rue 21 Harmony’s biggest change worry about relationships. Movie – Chucky since her freshman year is she “talks Her best excuse for a tardy is she woke up late, because her Class – Art to more people now.” Her advice for biggest struggle is getting to school on time. The best advice she has underclassmen is “Don’t give up. You will ever received is “take a deep breath and move on,” from her mom, her Holiday – Christmas be glad when you make it to 12th grade.” mom is also her role model because Song – Upon leaving high school, Harmony will she is the strongest woman she Safe and Sound miss her friends more than anything. knows. One thing she cannot live Savannah’s Faves without is her mom, something that App – Instagram bothers her is being interrupted. She Pizza topping – What’s Your Favorite has changed a lot since freshman Pineapple Thanksgiving Meal? year, she has become a more open, By Jamie Patrick talkative person. Class – English w/ Mrs. Rob After high school she will Drink – Sweet Tea Abby Beaty- Turkey Hailey Jensen – Mac and cheese miss having teachers that care about T.V Show – Stranger Things Kaylan Decker- Stuffing Mrs. Rice – Uncle Tom’s her the most. She is in FBLA, Key Food – Mashed potatoes Mrs. Brady- Dressing Bacon-Wrapped Jalapenos Club, NHS and MAT. Her favorite Restaurant – La Casita Camron Caldwell- Pizza Andrew Hill – Chicken Dressing year of high school was junior year. Carissa Caldwell- Possum grits Lily Lewis – Turkey Her biggest fear is being Ice cream – Mint Kimberly Willis- Turkey Chris Gulledge – Fried Chicken & lonely and her biggest fear about Chocolate Chip Mrs. Ross- Sweet potatoes Hot Sauce leaving high school is not being Celebrity Crush – successful. After high school, she plans to be an LPN, then later on an Mark Wahlberg RN. Holiday – Thanksgiving

Sophomore Holly Berry looks for a Field Trip: book. LawCo. Library Students in Mrs. Rice and Mrs. Hallman’s English classes (Far right) Mason Ashlock, Abby learned all the LawCo Library Rounsavall and Dagan Lillard relived has to offer digitally. the memories of their youth at the library. Class of 2020 5 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Keeping Up with Katie Rushing to Graduation by Kaylan Decker by Rhoni Riggs KayLynn (Katie) Rebecca Jones Austin Lee Rushing was born on was born on February 21, 2002 to her loving January 4, 2001 to Terra Rushing. He has father Kenny Jones. She has an older brother, an older sister, Jessica Rushing, 25. His Skyler 21 and three younger sisters Stormy best friends include Austin Stover, Chris 14, Zoey 13, and Charley 7. Her best friends Gulledge and Bo Johnson. include Kaylan Decker and Zoey Wilson. Mr. Rice is his favorite teacher Katie has been at Walnut Ridge because he helped Austin figure out what School for 6 years. She is in FCCLA, he wanted to do after high school. His Key Club, and National Honors Society. greatest accomplishment is learning to Her favorite teacher is Mrs. Rob because weld and that’s what he intends to do after she is KayLynn’s human diary. Her most high school. embarrassing moment in school is when Mr. His advice for the underclassmen Kersey got on to her for not being in class. is “take it day by day.” He can’t live So her best excuse for begin late to class is “I was doing something for without chocolate milk. His best excuse Mrs. Rob.” for being late is he over slept. The only One of her greatest accomplishments is making it to senior year thing that has changed about him since and overcoming all the obstacles freshman year is that he has gained along the way. Her advice for weight. Katie’s Favorites underclassmen “if you didn’t hear Austin’s Favorites The best advice he ever App – Snapchat it with you own ears or see it with Pizza Topping – received is ‘trust yourself first.” your own eyes, don’t invent it with Extra Cheese If he could restart high school and Movie – The Notebook your small mind and share it with change anything he said that he Class – Child Care your big mouth.” Class – Anything with wouldn’t because “everything that Management One thing she cannot live Mr. Rice without is her daily rant sessions has happened was either a blessing Drink – Sprite with Drink – Chocolate Milk or a lesson.” with Mrs. Rob. Her biggest T.V. Show – Lucifer strawberries and mangos pet peeve is hypocrites. Since His greatest fear entering high T.V. Show – Judge Judy freshman year she has become Food – All of it school was not having any friends Food – Chicken more open and blunt. Restaurant – Fuji’s and when he leaves he will miss playing football the most. Austin’s Holiday – Christmas After high school she plans to Ice cream – Cookie attend ATU in Russellville to major Dough role model is his Uncle Eddie Restaurant – Chick-fil-A in psychology. because he’s always there for him. Welcome Home, Xander

Senior Jon Alba and the entire Bobcat football team welcome Xander Layton back to WRHS. 6 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Class of 2020 Welcome Back, Brycen A to Zoey by Ray Yang By Chloe Brown Brycen Philip Thomas, also known Zoey Wilson was born to Sabrina and as BT, was born to Amanda and Brandon Daniel Wilson on April 15th 2001. Zoey has Thomas on May 4, 2001. Brycen has three two sisters, Danielle and Summer Wilson. younger brothers, Mari, 16 and Jack and Zoey’s best friend is Chloe Brown and Zoey has Ellis, who are 10. attended Walnut Ridge for 13 years. Her favorite He attended Walnut Ridge from fifth teacher is Mrs. Howard. Zoey’s most memorable through eighth grades before returning for moment in school was last year on the FCCLA his senior year. His best friend is Jacob trip to Conway. Sparks and he has a Shih Tzu named Ryder. The accomplishment Zoey is most proud Brycen received the ‘Key to the City’ of is having made it this far in school. The words from Jonesboro when he was just 16. He Zoey leaves to underclassmen is “good luck.” was working as a lifeguard when he saw a Zoey’s best excuse for being late is, “Sorry, there child drowning; he pulled him from the pool was a train.” One thing that Zoey cannot live and successfully performed CPR, saving his without is her phone. Her biggest pet peeve is life. Although his actions were pure instinct, when people obnoxiously smack their gum. it was the hardest thing he has ever done. Since freshman year Zoey has went from being quiet to speaking His biggest change since his freshman year is he “started to do her mind. Zoey does not think that she is going to miss anything about my work,” which is also his advice for underclassmen. It is also the one high school. She has been involved with FCCLA for two years now. thing he would change, if he could do it all over again. The best advice Zoey’s favorite quotes is, “Act as if what you do makes a difference. It Brycen has ever been given was from his role model, his mom. does.” by William James. He will miss his friends The best advice she has ever received was, “Be the bigger most after high school. Brycen’s person” from her sister, Summer. Zoey’s favorite year of high school was best excuse for being late to class Brycen’s Favorite 11th grade. If Zoey could start high is “I was using the bathroom.” His App – Snapchat school again she would change the pet peeve is people smacking while people she started with. Zoey’s Favorites: eating. Pizza – Pepperoni Her biggest fear going App – Snapchat Throughout high school, Movie – Black Sheep into high school was the teachers. Song – I’ll Always he has been involved in basketball, Drink – Dr. Pepper Her biggest fear upon leaving high Remember You baseball, football and FBLA. His Store – Walmart school is not knowing what’s going Pizza topping – Cheese biggest fear going into high school T.V. Show – to happen next. After she graduates Restaurant – El Acapulco was people picking on him. His Criminal Minds she’s looking forward to sleeping in. biggest fear about leaving school is The hardest thing Zoey’s ever had Drink – Coke that he will be all on his own. Book – to do was Mrs. Rob’s English paper. Holiday – Christmas After high school, Brycen My Side of the Mountains Growing up Zoey’s friends and Food – Nachos plans to earn a college degree and Food – Shrimp family called her “Zo” or “Zoebug.” Ice cream – Vanilla become a police officer. Holiday – Halloween Just a Minute Ago Bobcat Bio: Jamie Patrick by Mady McGinnis By Andrew Hill

Mollie Blackshear bought the $84 FBLA went to the fall conference Class – Junior Last binge watch – The hoodie Fortnite came back Club – Band Office Fortnite died The IPhone 11 dropped BFFs – Megan Cole, Leyre Tech/App We celebrated football Livvie Howard got her car stuck Fernandez and Dylan Sheets addiction – homecoming in the rain at the fire station Relationship status – Taken Snapchat Kayleene Long and Shyanne Jennifer Lawrence got married Foley became fish Bryleigh Morris turned 16 Pet peeve – People tapping Last person Report cards went out Cameron Robertson caught and their pencils texted – Megan Sydney Robinson’s ex “died” killed a wasp with his bare hands Worst habit – Being late Cole Class of 2020 7 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Stanfill is Superbad Your Main Gal, Leaffie By Austin Stover By Abby Rounsavall

Zacharia Leo Stanfill, better known as Leaffie Heaven Cook is the daughter Stanny, McLovin or just Zach is 17 years old, of Kerry Green and Keith Cook. Her siblings born June 10, 2002. He is the offspring of Edgar include Shasta Green, Keith Cook Jr and and Brittany Stanfill. Zach has four siblings: Elizabeth Cook. She is 17 years old and has Percy, Athena, Khalessi, and Aaliyah. Stanfill is attended Walnut Ridge for 13 years. Along the oldest of five children. Zach has a chocolate with her siblings, she has two pets Marley and lab named Abby. Xena. Her best friends include Ashka Pittman, Zach Stanfill is very popular as he’s Catherine Finney and her sister, Elizabeth. friends with almost everyone, but his closest Her role models are Mrs. Holland for all the friends consist of Valorie Cook, Austin Stover, help she has provided, and her mother, who Chris Gulledge, Austin Rushing, Roger King, helped her figure out who she is. Jonathan Alba, Dylan Sheets, Peyton Callahan, Her favorite teacher is the one, and and last, but not least, Bo Johnson. only, Mrs. Holland, “she is always there for Stanfill’s favorite teacher is, “The her kids no matter what.” Her favorite year of high school was 11th grade. Falling asleep in Zach’s Favorites Robster, because of the willow limb.” One of his memorable moments class has been her most embarrassing Drink – Sprite from high school was passing out in a moment and oversleeping is her best Food – Pizza Rolls rolling chair. Zach’s proudest moment of excuse for being late to class. As you Leaffie’s Faves: Entertainer – his high school career has been passing can tell, she likes to sleep. App - Facebook Mrs. Rob’s class. She has some advice for Pizza Topping - BBQ Kevin Hart underclassmen: “Do your work and Zach is normally a chill person, Class – ALE Celebrity Crush – but his biggest pet peeve is when people don’t sleep in class.” Wise words Scarlett Johanson. act like your best friend when they really from Miss Leaffie Cook, y’all should Drink - Mt. Dew Teacher – Mrs. Rob don’t even know you. probably listen to the woman. She Band – Green Day participates in choir. What she will Store – Wal-Mart miss most from high school are the Bobcat Bio: Jonathan Alba people who struggled to help others. T.V. Show – By Andrew Hill Leaffie’s biggest pet peeve Wentworth Class – Senior is when people smack their food. Book – Club – Key Club The one thing she couldn’t live Memory of Light BFFs – Mia Roberson, Blane Wade, Isaiah Mabry and without is her best friend Ashka. Her Andrew Hill favorite quote, “I began high school Entertainer – Fluffy Favorite teacher – Mrs. Lamb with straight A’s; now I’m not even Food – Potatoes Relationship status – Taken by the best straight,” comes from Amberlyn Holiday – Thanksgiving Political view – Christian Murray. Song – Pet peeve – Smacking gum Not knowing what to do is her Favorite Meme – A small price to pay for Salvation biggest fear going into high school. Someone You Loved The hardest thing she has ever had to Restaurant – do was math - I’m sure most people Chinese or Taco Bell Fun Facts can relate. She is most excited to get Ice Cream – By Ty Flippo married after graduation. As for plans after high school other than getting Cookies and Cream 1. Tomato sauce was sold as medicine in the 1800’s. hitched, she plans to attend BRTC Celebrity Crush – 2. In 1980 a Las Vegas hospital suspended workers for betting on when and get her CNA license. Ruby Rose patients would die. 3. A sneeze travels out of your mouth at over 100 mph. 8. A snail can have 25,000 teeth. 4. Butterflies taste with their feet. 9. In Utah it is illegal to swear in front of a dead person. 5. India has its own Bill of Rights for cows. 10. Almonds are a member of the peach family. 6. Helen Keller was immune to flashbangs. 11. The hottest temperature recorded on earth was two billion degrees. 7. Dartboards are made out of horse hairs. 12. Competitive art used to be in the Olympics. 8 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Class of 2020 2019-2020 Cheer Captain The Story Unfolds with T. Hart By Sydney Robinson By Cameron Robertson Maci Shea Smelser, 17, daughter of Tristin Hayden Hart, 17, was born to Kyle and Michelle Smelser, was born Kristin Rose and Eric Wiggins on March, 3 October 23, 2001. She has an older brother 2002. He is the middle child of three children, Drake Smelser, 21. She has two dogs including his big brother, Craig Wiggins, and named Sadie and Bella, and two cats, little sister, Garistin Ward. His brother is his named Otto and Julius. biggest role model because he grew up and She has attended Walnut Ridge became successful. His best friends include since kindergarten. Her best friends are Garrett Cook and Sam Adams. Mattie, Hailey, and Hannah P. Her favorite Tristin has been a Bobcat and has teachers are Mr. Haynes and Mrs. Mary attended Walnut Ridge for the full 12 years. because they give the best advice and help His favorite teacher is Mrs. Rouse because with everything. “she is the best.” The hardest thing he has ever Maci’s best accomplishments will be had to do was take one of Mrs. Rob’s tests. graduating with honors, and serving as His accomplishment he is most proud cheer captain. Her advice to underclassmen of is being on A/B honor role. Tristin’s advice is, “study! And be active in clubs and to underclassmen is “don’t slack off.” The one school activities.” Best excuse for being late is “There was a train!!” thing this sweet and caring person can’t live Cheer is what she will miss without is his family. His biggest pet peeve is smoking. He has changed most about high school. Maci is since his freshmen year by his “attitude involved in many clubs including Maci’s Faves Tristin’s Faves changed along with (his) body.” FBLA, FCCLA, Key Club, NHS, and A p p – S n a p c h a t App – Snapchat Clubs he is in include FBLA Cheer. Favorite quote is “There are T.V Show – Movie – Step Bothers and Key Club. Tristin’s favorite quote is many beautiful reasons to be happy.” Grey’s Anatomy “Don’t tread on me,” by Metallica. Even Band – Creed though he can hold himself, Tristin’s She has become more outgoing and Book – Wonder social since freshman year. Holiday – Christmas biggest fear while going into high school After graduation, Maci plans Restaurant – Chili’s Book – Wonder was bullies. After he graduates he plans to attend UCA or WBU, and meet new Ice Cream – Song – It’s a Great Day on becoming a diesel mechanic. people. Her biggest fear in 9th grade Vanilla with Reese’s to Be Alive His biggest fear upon graduating year was “forgetting where a classroom Drink – Dr. Pepper Restaurant – high school is not succeeding in the was.” Her favorite year of high school B a n d – J o n a s B r o t h e r s real world. This guy is already looking Wings to Go forward to working after graduation. was junior year. The hardest thing she Movie – has done throughout high school was Ice cream – He is going to go far in life because he passing chemistry with an A. Dirty Dancing Cookies ‘n Cream doesn’t want to be a lazy scrub.

FBLA Attends Fall Conference By Lindsay Bateman, WRHS WRHS FBLA Reporter Homecoming Walnut Ridge High School Future Business Leaders of America Days loaded the bus to attend the Fall Leadership Conference at ASU on Oct. 10. The conference began with the announcement of the District II = officers and then proceeded with the Pledge of Allegiance and national Legendary anthem. The guest speaker this year was Walt Coleman, former NFL referee of 30 years, who is an Arkansas native. Coleman spoke about how to be a successful leader. He informed us of three rules to remember as adults: Everyone is important, never lose a sense of humor and you Kayleene Long and Skunk... will make plenty of mistakes throughout life. A Love Story Our WRHS 9 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Do’s and Don’ts of the Deer Woods He Said, She Said By Roger King By Dagan Lillard --Do-- --Don’t-- “It might not be the best thing “Oh, that just butters my biscuit.” you’ve ever read, but it’s the best – Dagan Lillard 1. Wear camouflage 1. Don’t leave your ringer thing I’ve ever written” – Ty Flippo “Bro, we’re going to the Holocaust 2. Use scent away on “I don’t get songs stuck in my tomorrow.” – Hailey Jensen, 2. Don’t bring or eat chips 3. Come prepared for an head; I don’t think that much.” – *going to the BRTC Holocaust 3. Don’t shoot at the first Hannah Harper Speaker Series* all-day hunt deer you see “Do you have to know a lot of math “I have a feeling, if you’re an 4. Bring some warm 4. Don’t leave before dark to be an accountant?” – Mollie underclassman and you’re a girl, 5. Don’t hunt on private clothes Blackshear you’re probably a lesbian.” – Mady land without permission “I don’t know if that’s bleach or McGinnis 5. Stay near cover 6. Don’t break hunting laws pizza roll on my shirt.” – Maggie “I just realized something 6. Bring your phone 7. Don’t hunt after shooting Gibson incredible – I have two boxes of hours have ended 7. Listen carefully for deer Mrs. Rice, talking about hot chocolate at my house.” – 8. Don’t go too far into Muhammad Ali, “He was a boxing Jacob Buxton 8. Bring binoculars unknown woods icon…”; “…and then he did 9/11” “I don’t usually miss school!” – 9. Check the weather 9. Don’t forget your GPS – Madison Jones. *No, Maddie. Hannah Hatfield 10. Don’t forget that modern 10. Bring a flashlight *Talking about 9/11* “The “I have the dot orgs to prove it!” – gun season starts Nov. 9 - Dec. 1 Japanese really did it!” – Maddie Hailey Jensen Flippo. *Nope. “I’m gonna have Nash tutor me.” – “My eyes were glitching” – Sydney Sydney Robinson Robinson, talking about the night “Y’all are so lucky to have me in Causes of School Shootings Vary she became Tik Tok famous. your lives.” –Alex Jones By Maggie Gibson *Shyanne Foley, to Gracey “She has a boyfriend…” – Collins* “Gracey, do you know Cameron Robertson, to Austin As they say, “You've only snap, whether it be them harming what the Bible was originally Stover, who replied, “Just because got one life to live, and you're not themselves, or them harming written in?” Gracey’s response, there’s a goalie doesn’t mean you promised a tomorrow.” School others. “Times New Roman.” can’t score.” shootings are a constant problem Another reason is mental “Coke and Pepsi are the same *Classroom conversation about not only in the United States, but health. Studies have shown thing. Pepsi is a Coke product.” – the whistleblower* “I saw a guy in globally. According to the K-12 that most school shooters were Hailey Jensen Game Stop wearing a whistle.” – School Shooting Database, the mentally ill or showed symptoms “How do you get a fake ID? You Raelea Vanpram number of school shootings in of mental health problems. Timely order them from China and they *What does VSCO stand for?* 2019 has fallen from an all-time psychiatric support could help send them with a bunch of free “Save the turtles.” – Cameron high of 110 in 2018 to just 67 so prevent some of these shootings. chopsticks” – Kel Slusser Roberson far this year. It seems as if every However, in most cases these “I would totally join a cult if they *Alex Jones and Kayleene Long year the numbers are slowly just illnesses are not always properly didn’t have the mass suicide at the comparing fat rolls* Skylar increasing… diagnosed or treated. end.” – Grady Privett Louthan, jumps in, “Honey, y’all Shootings happen all the Some people blame the “I’m built like a trash can” – Logan ain’t got no fat rolls.” time, for many different reasons. violent acts of these “children” Blackwood “Hey, how are you?” The most reported reason, on horrific and gory video games “Wherefore art thou Brownman” “Good.”*Maddie Flippo and Mrs. however, is bullying. People and movies. Some people blame it – Abby Rounsavall Rice say all at the same time* bully all the time. It’s one of the on just the fact that not everyone “Save the planet, eat the children” “We’re such basic white girls.” – biggest problems with society is mentally stable. But no matter – Lily Lewis Mrs. Rice today, judgement. It’s awful that what, we will never really know “Oh a corndog… Nice!” – Ashton *Science Club, going to Wonders of people go every day of their exactly why shootings happen. As Davis Wildlife Aquarium, in Springfield, lives scared of being judged. terrible as they are, until “they” “War lasts forever, like depression” MO* Student A, “What is an Sometimes people don’t know make the schools better, they are – Dagan Lillard aquarium?” Student B, “Like a when enough is enough – until it only going to continue. These “It’s Nickleback. If you don’t like zoo, only liquid.” is too late. They don’t realize that things can be prevented, but not Nickleback, you’re a communist.” after time, people are going to without change. – James Allred 10 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Happening Now Not Being Able to Let Go By Connie Lane Students learned first Earlier in the month, 13 senior girls (including me) and two hand about juniors took a field trip to Barnes and Noble in Jonesboro – a popular freedom of store with many books for all ages – and discussed how and why some speech and books get banned in schools, libraries, and other public places. censorship when The original plan was to meet Meredith Russo, the author of If I the event they Was Your Girl. If I have to be honest, I was excited to meet her. Meeting had planned to attend was a transgendered woman who is well-known and famous for writing a cancelled. best-seller and hearing about why Sadly, that excitement vanished when we were told the student- focused ‘Meet and Greet’ sessions had been cancelled. Why? Before Stop, Drop and Read publication of the book, she (the author) was accused of misdeeds by an By Maddie Flippo ex. Local high schools and citizens began voicing concerns. This caused an uproar in the community after which the author Walnut Ridge High School (grades 7-12) is participating in a herself, became the issue. The Jonesboro Sun and the Jonesboro/ reading enrichment program, “stop, drop and read” this year. Students Craighead Co. library heard from numerous individuals and churches and teachers are expected to read for 25 minutes during Enrichment, upset over the planned visit. one day a week. They may read whatever they choose, with no specific Additional security was requested by the library to assure the requirements or testing. safety of Ms. Russo and local patrons. Most local schools dropped plans The plan is to help Walnut Ridge students improve their to attend. vocabulary and comprehension, which should, in turn, improve reading I will not sugar coat my opinion, either. The writer made a few scores on the ACT/Aspire tests. This could also help students better there mistakes, yes, and she has to live with that. However, I believe she should ACT scores. be treated as if she were human and recognized as the award-winning What Are You Reading? We are happy writer she is. She should be treated respectfully, as a writer who wanted Ty Flippo –“some basketball book” to participate in to meet her fans and encourage writing by students. Livie Howard – Redemption this event and I enjoyed field trip: Plan B. Hearing about books being banned Hannah Wade – If I Was Your Girl thank all the at schools filled me with education. Though, when I think about what Mattie Craig – The Bible teachers and that poor writer had to go through, I think to myself… many people have Mollie Blackshear – Bone Gap staff for helping to live with their mistakes and be rudely reminded of them every time in Anna Saffell – Perks of Being a Wallflower us in every their lives. Bryleigh Morris – The First Time She Drowned possible way.

Bobcat Bio: Sophomores Remember When Briana “Breezy” Jones By Dagan Lillard By Jacob Slankard …Tara Wells stabbed Bethany …Chloe Davis and Jayden Wells in the back with a pencil Hollister broke up because she beat Class - Sophomore …Drey Hibbard literally started him at tetherball Club Involvement – Book Club cutting peoples clothes off …Drey Hibbard and Sydney BFFs – Danielle Stover, Jacob Slankard, Tabitha …Ty Flippo, Mason Andrews, Robinson dated Vanover and James Allred Noah Roark, and Landon Brady …Hannah Beary and Noah Roark Favorite Teacher – Mrs. Holland “fixed” Mrs. Shaffer’s pencil dated Favorite Class – Art sharpener …Chloe Davis and Garrison Doyle Relationship Status – Single Pringle …Chloe Davis and Olivia Farmer dated Pet Peeve – Lying found frogs in Jayden Hollister’s …Maggie Gibson and Andrew Last binge watch – Hart of Dixie pants Prestidge dated Tech Addiction – Borderlands 2 and 3 …Hannah Beary was a brawler in …Tara Wells and Mason Ashlock Most awkward moment – Crying in history class in 6th grade 4th grade dated Last person you texted – Danielle Stover …Olivia Farmer tried to kiss …Dagan Lillard played football What would you want for your last meal? – Subway, all the way Korwin Johnson and he punched …Maggie Gibson gave Andrew Freshman Flop – “Not doing all my journals and Cornell notes” her Prestidge’s promise ring back Current Events 11 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 Joker Expected to be Another Hit Duck Dynasty’s John Luke and By Anna Saffell Wife Welcomes First Child The movie, Joker, Especially after the shooting that By Mattie Craig premiered in theaters around the occurred in Colorado during the John Luke Robertson and with the caption “Yep, that’s a world October 4. There has been a premiere of the last Batman movie. his wife Mary Kate welcomed baby!” They decided to keep the lot of controversy and worry over After watching the movie, a son on Monday, October 14. name and gender secret until the this new movie. people are comparing performances Robertson, the second oldest son of baby’s birth. The character of the Joker of Joaquin Phoenix (2019 Joker) Duck Dynasty’s Willie and Korie The couple may sound is based on a man who was a to Heath Ledger (2012 The Dark Robertson, announced little John familiar to some, as they were stars harmless nobody, who turned into Knight). Heath Ledger won a Shepherd’s birth on Instagram with on the popular show Duck Dynasty somebody totally villainous and posthumous Academy Award for a picture of the baby, born ten days years ago. They got engaged dangerous, because of how badly his role in The Dark Knight. early. in 2015 and are both currently society treated him. He simply Critics are saying The pregnancy attending Liberty University in goes insane, becoming violent and Phoenix’s performance is amazing announcement was first posted by Virginia. abusive to everyone around him. – just as good, if not better – than John Luke on Instagram in May Some people believe Ledger’s performance. Many spotlighting the character of Joker believe Phoenix has a great chance could encourage and affect a type to be an Oscar nominee and receive Remember When… of thinking that might inspire an his first Oscar for his role in Joker. By Jasmine Cox act of violence or a mass shooting. …Parker Papi almost got left at …Hall surfing was a thing the mall during an FBLA trip …We didn’t have a choice of what …Walnut Ridge middle school to eat during lunch Teacher of the Year, Every Year caught on fire …Mrs. Essman had us practice By Chris Gulledge …We got to take naps in songs and dances for hours elementary school …We had recess Becky Robinson, better known on …Dr. Holloway’s class wasn’t …Gregory Duckworth was short campus as Mrs. Rob, has taught at Walnut Ridge hard (wait, did that happen?) in elementary High School for six years. She is an English …PBS Kids’ channel was the best …Mrs. Potter was the elementary teacher and is the best one we have. The classes …We didn’t have to worry about art teacher she teaches include AP Literature, AP Language what we wanted to be 11 and English 11. Mrs. Rob attended Black Rock High School. She received her B.A. from Harding Bobcat Bio: Noel Deason University, By Jacob Slankard Food – Country and her M. Ed cooking from Texas Class - Freshman T.V Shows – NCIS and Wesleyan BFFs – Blade Fisher, Cole Ball, Zach Cox, Jasmine Cox, Koltin University. Yellowstone Lewis, Bryce Davis, Kaden Davis, Jacob Slankard, James She previously taught at Black Rock Davidson, Justin Pegler, Kreccia Jones Authors – Lisa for 30 years. Favorite Teacher/Class – Mrs. Shelby/Math Wingate, Kristin Mrs. Rob enjoys reading and Relationship Status – Single Hannah Ranger riding. Her words of advice Last Binge Watch – Avatar, The Last Air Bender include “Be a non-conformist, and do Store – Cato not rely on others for things that are Favorite Meme – Jeffy Restaurant – Colton’s your own responsibility.” Tech Addiction – Minecraft and Facebook BFF – Alan Robinson Her philosophy about teaching Last person you texted – Mom Quote – “A book is is “Teachers show students where Worst Habit – Asking my parents to drive me to look but not what to see.” She is every day knowing I can drive myself a dream you hold in married to Alan Robinson and is Last Meal – Pizza, Ranch and jalapenos your hands.” – Neil looking forward to her retirement Freshman Flop – “So far, I’ve taken a few Fs Gaiman someday. because I didn’t want to do (the work).” 12 The Cat's Dispatch, Walnut Ridge High School, November 20 , 2019 The Boys of Fall Seniors of 2020 Take the Field for their Last Game By Olivia Ford The Walnut Ridge Bobcat football team is led by 13 seniors. These seniors include Jonathan Alba, Eli Biggers, Andrew Brewer, Daveon Fisher, Nash Gill, Tristin Hart, Isaiah Mabry, Andres Marin, Grady Privett, Austin Rushing, Thomas Smith, Brycen Thomas, and Jace Turner. Jonathan Alba, a defensive tackle for the Bobcats, has played football for six years. To pump him up before a game, he listens to Leave ‘Em with Nothing by Emanuel Vo Williams. Alba’s favorite post-game meal is surf and turf. His favorite football memory is seeing Coach Blake running down the sideline with Cole on the game winning touchdown against Salem. Eli Biggers, a safety/outside linebacker for the Bobcats, has played football for six years. Before games, Eli listens to Ballin’; and after games, he chows down on granola bars. His favorite football memory is when Nick hit Nathan Brown with an extra point. fries from McDonald’s as his post-game meal. memories involving football all revolve Andrew Brewer, a quarterback/ Tristin’s favorite football memory took place around the pre-game hype. cornerback/wide receiver for the Bobcats, when he watched Coach Blake run routes, then Thomas Smith, a wide receiver/ has played football for eight years. Andrew’s almost pass out when he came back. outside linebacker for the Bobcats, has favorite pre-game song is Slime Belief. His Isaiah Mabry, a wide receiver/defensive played football for eight years. His favorite memory made while playing football is when back for the Bobcats, has played football for seven pre-game song is Drip too Hard and his the Bobcats defeated Piggott on homecoming years. His favorite pre-game song is Dreams and favorite post-game meal is Sonic. Thomas’s by 1 point. Nightmares by Meek Mill. After a game, Isaiah’s most cherished football memory is when the Daveon Fisher, an outside linebacker/ favorite meal is a Subway sandwich. team made the second round of playoffs his defensive end/defensive tackle for the Bobcats, Andres Marin is a kicker for the Bobcats. junior year. has played football for eight years. To pump While he has played football for only two months, Brycen Thomas, an inside linebacker/ him up before a game, he listens to Back On. he played soccer in high school back home in outside linebacker for the Bobcats, has After a game, he enjoys eating “anything Colombia. His favorite pre-game song is Calle played football for eight years. His favorite that ain’t spicy.” Daveon’s favorite football 13, and his favorite post-game meal is pizza. His pre-game song is We are the Champions, memory was made when he got his first favorite football memories are the first games in while his favorite post-game meal is pizza. interception playing pee-wee. which he had not missed any field goals. Brycen’s favorite football memory is when Nash Gill, a middle linebacker/ Grady Privett, a left guard for the the Bobcats defeated Corning. quarterback for the Bobcats, has played Bobcats, has played football for five years. To Jace Turner, a defense tackle-slot football for eight years. Nash’s favorite pre- get him ready for a game, he listens to Don’t for the Bobcats, has played football for eight game song is Time Marches On, while his Give Us a Reason. His favorite post-game meal years. His favorite pre-game song is Slime favorite post-game meal is McDonald’s. His is McDonald’s chicken nuggets. Grady’s favorite Belief, and after a game he will be at Main favorite football memory is when he watched football memory is when the team beat Piggott Street Pizza enjoying his favorite post-game Coach Ward run “the fastest I’ve ever seen” by 1 point last season. meal. Jace’s favorite football memory is when lightning struck the ground in eighth Austin Rushing, a defensive tackle for when Coach Ward ran a 4.2 to the field house grade. the Bobcats, has played football for 10 years. His when lighting struck during practice. Tristin Hart, a safety/wide receiver

favorite pre-game song is Popout. After a game, for the Bobcats, has played football for eight Biggers Eli and Bounds Chloe

Austin enjoys eating a Hot n’ Spicy McChicken years. To pump him up before a game, he Students; Mystery from McDonald’s with Davion. Austin’s favorite listens to Slime Belief. After a game, he enjoys