It was a predictably eventful evening in LA this past Sunday at the 96th Academy Awards, hosted at the Dolby Theater.
Among the stand-out moments were John Cena’s naked walk across the stage to present the award for Best Costume Design and Al Pacino’s decision to skip over the nominations for Best Film altogether, instead going straight to announcing the winner.
There were also plenty of talking points to be gleaned from the red carpet, not least relating to the plethora of eye-catching outfits on show. As per reports, actress Kelly Ripa and husband Mark Consuelos were among those to steal the show, with the former causing a particular stir on social media.
Celebrities dominating headlines for their choice of garment for any particular awards ceremony is nothing new.
Yet in the age of social media, where live photos from the red carpet can be shared around the world at the click of a button, it’s become arguably more popular than ever to discuss and debate outfits in real time.
As such, it’s only natural to expect that an event of the magnitude of the Oscars, and those fortunate enough to be in attendance, is always going to be heavily scrutinized.
Honoring the “Super Seniors” of Springdale High School
The Class of 2022 was in for a surprise when they celebrated their graduation at the Springdale School District. In addition to honoring the recent graduates, the event paid respect to four exceptional veterans who, had they not decided to serve in the military, would have graduated in 1956. Known by their endearing nickname, “super seniors,” Carl Stults, Bobby Burke, Charles Leroy Moon, and Bob Self were among the veterans who received honorary diplomas with the graduating seniors.
These four young guys were all seniors in high school in 1956, yet none of them graduated from Springdale High School. Carl Self revealed, “Springdale didn’t recognize the GED at the time, but I took a test when I joined the Air Force. I eventually graduated from Little Rock Central with a diploma. It wasn’t until they got together for lunch one day that the school district learned about their missing diplomas.
The Class of 2022 was delighted to learn that these “super seniors” will be participating in the graduation ceremony. It was a lesson in sacrifice and honor as much as a celebration of their accomplishment. Jared Cleveland, the superintendent of Springdale, delivered sentimental letters honoring the heroes’ bravery and devotion from U.S. Representative Steve Womack and Governor Asa Hutchinson during the ceremony.
They served both during and after the Korean War, according to Womack. They weren’t thinking about themselves or asking themselves, “What about me?” at the time. They performed their duty. Isn’t that the authentic essence of America? The instructors paused to recognize the outstanding accomplishments that each veteran has made since enlisting in the Air Force in 1956.
These four extraordinary guys finally earned their long-awaited diplomas from their alma mater, after 66 years. It was a just reward for all of their hard work. “Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog,” as the saying goes.
Greetings on your honorary diplomas, Bob Self, Charles Leroy Moon, Bobby Burke, and Carl Stults! Their devoted dedication to our nation is incredibly admirable. We are fortunate to live in the wonderful country we do today because of courageous people like them. By sharing this story and expressing our gratitude, let’s honor these men for their incredible achievements and selflessness.
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