Bye Bye Bowie! It’s so crazy how these past four years flew by so fast. I feel like just yesterday when I would wake up five minutes before my freshman Zoom classes. Just a couple of years ago I was dreading high school, but now looking back these have been some of the most eventful and heartwarming years of my life. 

Joining journalism my freshman year was simply because I liked to write, and I remember my seventh-grade journalism teacher giving us donuts every now and then. I am so happy that a little shy middle school took that leap because of all the opportunities this program has given me. Newspaper has given me a little family and so many fun memories. This little chapter has definitely been fun and so worth it!

To my Mamas and Dad, thank you for supporting me throughout the years and for all the great advice. My sweet little sisters, you guys will be my rocks for the rest of my life! Thank you for all the support and confidence you have given me, I will miss you two so much. Finally, a big shoutout and thank you to my Grandpa who is the only person who consistently reads every single paper from beginning to end. Love y’all lots!

To my teachers, you guys have made high school bearable and enjoyable. A few specific and unbelievably hard working people come to mind. Thank you Profe Walsh for being so incredibly kind during quarantine and every day after. To Mrs. Reyes and Mrs. Kowalick, thank you for giving me some of the best advice and encouraging me to explore the world. Of course a big thank you to Reeves. Your class by far has been the best decision I have made during high school. These past three years have had big ups and downs, but your class never failed to put a smile on my face. Thank you for all the advice and support you have given all of us since day one. 

To leadership, I can’t express how much I love you guys! Going into my first year of newspaper I was terrified of meeting new people. A huge shout out to Kate (Davey), you have been my day one bestie. You are so incredibly talented, funny, and trustworthy, these past few years would not have been possible without you. You’re literally one of the highlights of my day. I know you will go on to do great things, and I am so incredibly proud of you! 

Emme, I knew that we would be great friends the minute we met. You’re so silly and so supportive, I always know that you will be there for me, and I hope you know I’ll always be here for you too! You’re easily one of the smartest people I know, I can’t wait to see where life takes you. 

Mazzy, you’re one of the coolest, smartest, and funniest people I know. I love talking to you, I always feel like I can say whatever without feeling any judgment. You never fail to amaze me, your procrastination skills are top-tier, very impressive. You are definitely going to flourish next year, I’m so excited for you! 

Charlotte you are such a beam of light. You never failed to create a positive environment, I am so glad we got closer this year. You give some of the best advice, I hope all your dreams come true. 

Asher, I’m convinced you are one of the most kind and level-headed people on this earth. You are so incredibly hardworking, you deserve a medal for the number of times you have pulled through for everyone on staff. I love talking with you, you’re so funny and you always inspire me to try my best. I think we all need a little Asher in our lives. 

To the Dispatch staff, and my feature girlies, you guys are all so talented! I know that next year the paper will be amazing and will continue to grow all thanks to you guys. Thank you for all your hard work and making this year so much fun!