October 2010 Chatterbox - Ruston High School - Lincoln Parish ...
October 2010 Chatterbox - Ruston High School - Lincoln Parish ...
October 2010 Chatterbox - Ruston High School - Lincoln Parish ...
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B-E-A-T N-E-V-I-L-L-E Week! See Page 32<br />
RHS Distinguished<br />
Alumni and Teacher<br />
Series—Part 1<br />
See Page 2<br />
FBLA Prepares for<br />
Hot Halloween<br />
Happenings<br />
See Page 17<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong><br />
Box Tops<br />
<strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> Welcomes SACS!<br />
by Amber Brown<br />
Senior Editor<br />
Outside Our Box (2)<br />
Academia (3-6)<br />
Teacher Spotlights (7-8)<br />
Editorials/Opinions (9-12)<br />
Homecoming (13)<br />
Service and Social (14)<br />
Clubs (15-17)<br />
The Arts (18)<br />
Senior Spotlights (19-24)<br />
Student Center (25)<br />
Fun Page (26)<br />
Sponsors/staff (27)<br />
Bearcat Spirit (28)<br />
Sports (29-32)<br />
RHS Distinguished<br />
Alumni and Teachers<br />
information provided by the RHS Alumni Association<br />
by Natasha Alva<br />
News Editor<br />
SACS stands for the Southern Association of Colleges and <strong>School</strong>s. It is an organization which evaluates<br />
schools by an appointed committee that visits schools to determine if they may become accredited or<br />
not. On <strong>October</strong> 5, <strong>2010</strong>, two SACS committee members from Michigan, along with six others, came to<br />
evaluate all <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>School</strong>s. Our two team members spent more than half a day at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong>. Students were not aware of this, but ever since the last school year (2009-<strong>2010</strong>), teachers and administration<br />
have been preparing what is called a ―Self-Study‖ report to be read and evaluated thoroughly<br />
by the SACS agency, which is one of the main reasons that the committee chose to review <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong><br />
and see if the school‘s ―Self-Study‖ matched up to the real deal. <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> and all <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>School</strong>s can proudly say that<br />
we passed the accreditation. Mr. Milstead, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>‘s principal, had this to say about the matter: ―I never once doubted that<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> and the schools in <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> would pass the accreditation, because the parish has proactive leaders, excellent teachers,<br />
and wonderful students.‖ One source also stated that two committee members indicated <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> was one of the best schools they have<br />
ever visited, and they visit schools all over the country!<br />
The SACS committee members reviewed documents, evaluated information, and visited the facility, staff, faculty, parents, and students.<br />
The Ambassadors welcomed and greeted them at the door and introduced them to tour guides (a.k.a. Mr. Milstead and Mrs. Tatum). After<br />
the ice was broken, Mr. Milstead took the committee members to the RHS faculty lounge to eat lunch before actually beginning their tour<br />
of the school, which was only allotted thirty minutes of review. The SACS members informed Mr. Milstead that despite the construction<br />
adjacent to the boulevard, RHS still managed to stand out above the rest. One of the members added that they were ―impressed with the<br />
facilities‖ without an in-depth tour. Once the tour was completed, they proceeded to their mandatory interviews of four different groups to<br />
test the ―Self-Study‖ once more: the <strong>School</strong> Improvement Team (SIT), a student group (pictured below), a teacher group, and a parent<br />
group, who were asked a variety of school related questions. (Continues on page 3)<br />
Last month, on September 24, the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni Association<br />
held their annual awards luncheon at the Squire Creek Country Club. At the<br />
luncheon, three distinguished teachers and three distinguished alumni were honored<br />
and recognized. The distinguished teachers honored were current teacher<br />
Julie B. Stephenson, retired teacher Ruth C. Potts, and the late Mrs. Murrie Lee<br />
Turnbow. The three Distinguished Alumni recognized and honored were as<br />
follows: in the category of Commerce, <strong>Ruston</strong> businessman Johnny Maxwell;<br />
as Humanitarian, Cherry Pratt Kirkpatrick; and as Physician, Scientist, and Educator,<br />
Dr. Joan Blondin.<br />
The <strong>Chatterbox</strong> will be providing a more detailed report on each of these<br />
distinguished alumni and teachers in a 6 part series, covering one distinguish<br />
alumni or teacher each month. We begin our series on page two (2), covering<br />
Dr. Joan Blondin.<br />
SACS Students Interviewed: (From left to right) Beau Russell, Mary<br />
Glen Lyons, Demario Mitchell, Taylor Kaufman, John David<br />
Moore, Fre‘Drecia Payne, Jake Kyte, Neesha Sirawardane, Ashley<br />
Davison, and Cyril Nolan (Pictured at Left: Aaron Boersma)
O<br />
utside Our Box? <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 2<br />
Distinguished Alumni:<br />
Joan Blondin, M.D.<br />
Information provided by the RHS Alumni Association<br />
by Natasha Alva<br />
News Editor<br />
Dr. Blondin graduated from RHS in 1955. In 1959,<br />
she received her Bachelor‘s degree from Louisiana<br />
Tech‘s <strong>School</strong> of Home Economics with a specialty in<br />
Nutrition Sciences. Then in 1961, she attained her Masters<br />
Degree in Nutritional Sciences from Cornell University<br />
located in Ithaca, New York. After graduating<br />
from Cornell, Dr. Blondin served as an Instructor of<br />
Nutrition at the University of Alabama for a year, a Research<br />
Associate at Cornell for a year, and then as an<br />
Assistant Professor of Nutrition at LSU for two years. In<br />
1965, Dr. Blondin was accepted to the Louisiana State<br />
University <strong>School</strong> of Medicine in New Orleans and in<br />
1969 received her M.D.<br />
After graduating from the LSU Medical <strong>School</strong>, Dr.<br />
Blondin completed both her Internship and Residency in<br />
Jindal’s Plans To<br />
Improve LA <strong>School</strong>ing<br />
by Elizabeth Smith<br />
Business Manager<br />
Tuesday September 28, <strong>2010</strong>, Governor Bobby Jindal<br />
went to Dubach, Louisiana, to share his plans to for improving<br />
the school systems in Louisiana to the general<br />
public. He stated his two goals and how he planned on<br />
reaching them. He first plans on ―improving outcomes in<br />
Saluting Outstanding Student<br />
Achievement<br />
Throughout the Bearcat Nation<br />
Medicine in 1972, and<br />
her fellowship in Nephrology<br />
at Washington<br />
University, Barnes Hospital<br />
in Saint Louis, Missouri<br />
in 1974. From<br />
1974 – 1978, she served<br />
as an Assistant Professor<br />
of Medicine at Washington<br />
University and was<br />
on the admitting staff at<br />
both St. Louis City and<br />
Barnes Hospitals.<br />
Dr. Blondin‘s field of<br />
specialization is in internal<br />
medicine and nephrology.<br />
Her special interest has been intermediary metabolism<br />
of the kidney and mineral metabolism. Her<br />
particular clinical interest has been in the progression of<br />
chronic kidney disease. In 1978, she returned to North<br />
Louisiana and opened her private practice of Nephrology<br />
in Monroe. Because of her interest in higher education<br />
in Louisiana, she accepted an appointment to the<br />
Louisiana State Board of Regents and served as its<br />
chairman.<br />
higher education‖ by, ―enacting performance expectations<br />
and incentives at colleges and universities‖. Secondly, he<br />
plans on ―encouraging flexibility and accountability in K-<br />
12 education‖ by, ―reducing red tape and bureaucracy in<br />
the state‘s education system,‖ ―ensuring that every child<br />
is taught by an effective teacher and that every public<br />
school is led by effective instructional leaders‖ and<br />
―better communicating public school performance‖.<br />
After his speech, Governor Jindal answered two questions<br />
during a short interview on education.<br />
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Blondin<br />
has remained committed to research, the publication of<br />
her findings from such research in many technical texts<br />
and periodicals, professional lecturing, and classroom<br />
teaching. Her expertise has been widely recognized by<br />
her peers resulting in her being appointed to prominent<br />
positions in numerous professional organizations from<br />
the local to the national level. The list of Honor Societies<br />
into which she has been inducted reads like the entire<br />
Greek alphabet.<br />
More important than all of Dr. Blondin‘s professional<br />
achievements and awards is the universal agreement<br />
and often expressed sentiment that she is a wonderful<br />
colleague and friend. Just one confirming example of<br />
this is her having been selected by the students and faculty<br />
of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport as<br />
the <strong>2010</strong> recipient of the Allen A. Copping Excellence<br />
in Teaching Award. Nominators cited Dr. Blondin, a<br />
faculty member since 1996, for the way in which she<br />
uses every opportunity to mold students and young residents<br />
into both successful clinical physicians and responsible<br />
citizens. The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni<br />
Association honored Dr. Joan Blondin by recognizing<br />
her as its <strong>2010</strong> Distinguished Alumni in the field of<br />
Medicine and Education.<br />
Q: How will you implement better<br />
communication of the school performance?<br />
A: There is already a system in place;<br />
we are just going to translate it to<br />
where everyone can understand it.<br />
Q: When are you going to enact the<br />
new grading scale?<br />
A: There is already one in place, we<br />
will just translate it.<br />
Flag Raising on Sherwood Drive<br />
by Natasha Alva and Lauren Townsend<br />
News Editor and Asst. News Editor<br />
On Friday, September 25 th , residents of Sherwood Drive gathered at the end of their<br />
cul-de-sac with members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post (VFW) and other friends<br />
to pay tribute to former Marine Corps First Sergeant Bruce Spaulding. The flag raising<br />
ceremony honored Spaulding and all veterans, and inspired patriotism for local citizens.<br />
The ceremony began with a prayer, followed by a short speech by Earvin Ryland,<br />
organizer of the event. Ryland explained the work that took place to make the event<br />
possible. The flag used was actually received by Ryland by an anonymous sender.<br />
Ryland called Col. Lynn Clark of <strong>Ruston</strong>‘s VFW for assistance, who coordinated with<br />
the city of <strong>Ruston</strong> to assist with the flagpole. With a restored flagpole and a new flag,<br />
Spaulding was given a memorial ceremony that will be honored by all patriots.<br />
Bruce Spaulding was a twenty year Marines Corps veteran and a true patriot. He<br />
served two terms as the commander of <strong>Ruston</strong>‘s VFW post. Both of his sons attend<br />
RHS and his daughter is a <strong>Ruston</strong> graduate. Both sons raised the flag at the ceremony,<br />
which would, as Ryland says, ―make [Bruce] very proud.‖ J.D. Harper, the current commander<br />
of the <strong>Ruston</strong> VFW post, stating ―Bruce was a great person… He was all about<br />
spreading patriotism, so he would be thrilled by all of this. That flag will wave in his<br />
honor and the honor of all veterans of our armed service.‖ Hopefully, the memory of<br />
Bruce Spaulding and the American flag waving on Sherwood Drive will spread patriotism<br />
to all who look upon it.
A<br />
cademia<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 3<br />
Physics Students Step-up to Tech<br />
by Amber Brown and Gray Taylor<br />
Senior Editor and Graphics Designer<br />
While most of the student body attended the Homecoming Assembly on September<br />
24 th , a select few of Mr. Elliott‘s Physics Honors students went to the Tech Step engineering<br />
program at Louisiana Tech. The students representing <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> were seniors<br />
Gray Taylor, Robbie Davenport, Will Byargeon, Walker Holmes, Michael Thompson,<br />
and Amber Brown.<br />
Once everyone arrived at Louisiana Tech, the Tech professors provided donuts and<br />
coffee for breakfast. From around 9:00 am to noon, the chosen ones constructed intricate<br />
model bridges simply using manila folders. The project took almost three hours to<br />
build and required everyone in the group to work together. Mr. Elliott walked around to<br />
the other schools‘ tables to see if anyone else needed help. At Noon, the students took a<br />
lunch break and enjoyed pizza and sodas on the campus lawn. Afterwards, the students<br />
went back to work on their bridges, using equations to configure how much weight their<br />
bridge could support. This event was the first of three Tech Step meetings being held<br />
this school year, the other two will be held in December and January.<br />
Physics students at Louisiana Tech Step plan and then build their bridge project.<br />
Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong> Prepares Lessons<br />
for I.A. Lewis<br />
by Amber Brown<br />
Senior Editor/ Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong> Member<br />
Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong>‘s Goal: ―To instill in the 6 th grade students at I.A. Lewis a desire to<br />
become caring, confident, and contributing leaders in life.‖<br />
Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong> is one of the newest organizations at RHS, seeing as it was just<br />
created by the Classes of 2011 and 2012 (the now upper-classman) at the end of last<br />
year, when students that were looked up to as leaders were invited to the OWL Center<br />
located in Dubach, LA. Even though Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong> is still a ―baby‖ compared to<br />
some of the older clubs like FFA, it still has many plans to put into action. Mrs. Letendre,<br />
the clubs‘ advisor, has already put the plans of Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong> visiting I.A.<br />
Lewis almost every month into action. Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong>, with the help of Mrs. Letendre,<br />
will be paired up to teach these 6 th graders for 45 minute increments each month, starting<br />
in November with the lesson on ―Leadership‖ prepared by a group of six club members.<br />
These leaders were nominated and chosen last year by their actual ability to lead<br />
by example and actions.<br />
The 38 Leading <strong>Lincoln</strong> upperclassmen that will be providing the lessons for I.A.<br />
Lewis are as follows: Myketrian Amacker, Reeves Barr, Miyata Bridges, Amber<br />
Brown, Joseph Brunson, Lanette Buggs, Steven Caldwell, Mary Cox, Ashley Davidson,<br />
Anna Fuller, Eric Goree, Jake Haddox, Brandon Hearn, Rachel Hill, Molly Humphries,<br />
Bobby James, Taylor Kaufman, Chelsea Koonce, Nick Letendre, Danielle McCoy, Cyril<br />
Nolan, Caroline Oakley, Alex Osborne, Markia Patton, Fre‘Drecia Payne, Evan Puckett,<br />
Jordan Rushing, Beau Russell, Macie Sutherland, Chris Taylor, Ashlyn Thompson,<br />
Casey Turner, Maggie Ward, Sidney White, Brittany White, Maddie Wiggins, Carrington<br />
Wilson, and Sidney Wilt. These students plan to represent RHS well while being<br />
positive influences on their peers and the community.<br />
<strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> Welcomes SACS!<br />
(Continued from Page 1)<br />
by Amber Brown<br />
Senior Editor<br />
After speaking with Mrs. Tatum on this very special (and quite stressful) day, she<br />
had this to say: ―SACS committee members seemed to really like <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
The thing they commented on the most, to me, was how impressed they were with our<br />
student body.‖ The student committee that was interviewed said that ―Mr. Art said that<br />
we stuck out from the rest of the Louisiana schools- we‘re the best!‖<br />
On <strong>October</strong> 6, <strong>2010</strong>, the long awaited results were given. All principals were summoned<br />
to the LPSB (school board) and the Chairman (head) of the SACS committee<br />
informed them of their school‘s accreditations. The results warrant a round of applause<br />
as it is clear that <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> students attend one of the top, well-rounded school<br />
districts in the country. <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> and all <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> schools should be<br />
proud to have this honor!<br />
Speech and Debate at BPCC<br />
submitted by Mrs. Olsen<br />
Speech and Debate Coach<br />
At the BPCC Invitational, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> took 9 students who brought home a 2nd<br />
place Overall Sweepstakes trophy. Contributing to Sweepstakes award were the following<br />
student winners: Novice <strong>Lincoln</strong> Douglas Debate - 1st place - Brianna Worley;<br />
Advanced <strong>Lincoln</strong> Douglas Debate - 1st place - Walker Holmes; Novice Cross Examination<br />
Debate - 4th place - Savannah Woods and Preston Ponder; Advanced Cross<br />
Examination Debate - 3rd place - Stephen Zhong and Josh Phillips; Jr. Extemporaneous<br />
Speaking - 2nd place - Jonathan Verrett; and Sr. Extemporaneous Speaking - 3rd<br />
place - Josh Phillips.<br />
I would like to thank <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>‘s teachers for sharing your students with me.<br />
New Tech Students<br />
Build Catapult<br />
by Christian Amos<br />
Sports Editor<br />
Two freshman New Tech students showed their craftsmanship by building a two<br />
and one-half foot wooden catapult. The structure was constructed by Jordan Bruner<br />
and Lucas Hashimoto for Mr. Savage‘s math class. ―It took one night to build it because<br />
we‘re just that awesome!‖<br />
The catapult was put together with many materials such as: screws, nails, hooks,<br />
bungee cords, sticky tacks, duct tape, a swim cap, and a measuring cup to hold the item<br />
of shelling. Even RHS Student Council President Beau Russell stopped by to test out<br />
the freshmen‘s work. This is just one of many projects the New Tech students will be<br />
working on all year to test their aptitude.
A<br />
cademia<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 4<br />
El día de Brujas<br />
by Stephany Arias<br />
Senior Reporter<br />
Eureka! A Math Play?<br />
by Emily Moore<br />
Arts Reporter<br />
On Thursday, <strong>October</strong> 7, <strong>2010</strong>, juniors loaded up on the buses<br />
and headed out. All students enrolled in Mrs. Courtney Martin‘s<br />
Algebra II class received the privilege of going to the Brown<br />
Theatre at the Civic Center in Monroe. It was an exciting event<br />
because math classes rarely ever get to go on field trips. Mrs. Martin didn‘t hide any of her excitement.<br />
The students all looked very classy and outshone all the other schools attending ―Eureka!‖,<br />
the math play.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> juniors were just happy to get out of class and didn‘t expect to enjoy the play, but<br />
they got a nice surprise. The play featured mathematicians such as Albert Einstein, Pythagoras, and<br />
several others. The actors even threw in some comedy. The play emphasized the order of operations<br />
(P.E.M.D.A.S). The characters‘ way to remember the order was ―Pancake Explosion! Many<br />
Deaths Are Suspected‖. Although, several <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> students stated that they thought ―People<br />
Envy My Down-right Amazing Swag‖. The play also used other nifty ways to remember mathematics.<br />
This play proved to be educational and enjoyable. Viewers will remember prime numbers<br />
and the triangle. Perhaps, the best point ―Eureka!‖ made was that math is found everywhere, even<br />
in nature. It is used in everyday life and is really a beautiful thing.<br />
After the play, students loaded up and headed to a crowded mall for some lunch. Upon arrival,<br />
students split up heading to Yummy Japan, Chic-Fil-A, and various other restaurants. All <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
<strong>High</strong> students were told to be back on the bus and ready to leave at 1:15 p.m. sharp and then let<br />
loose to eat. Many followed their noses to Maggie Moos. It was an educational experience as well<br />
as a fun one and all those who attended will picture Einstein during any math test in the future.<br />
Los orígenes de Halloween se remontan a la cultura Celta en Irlanda. De acuerdo a su religión<br />
Druida, el Año Nuevo era el 1 de noviembre. La celebración comenzaba el 31 de octubre y duraba<br />
hasta el día siguiente. Los espíritus de todos los que habían muerto durante el año se levantaban y<br />
deambulaban por las calles esa noche, la cual era considerada maligna. La costumbre de amenazar<br />
con bromas u obtener caramelos (Trick or Treat) también tiene su origen en los irlandeses, ya que<br />
ellos iban de puerta en puerta pidiendo a sus vecinos y amigos contribuciones para la celebración<br />
de All Hollow‘s Eve.<br />
National Merit Scholar Semi-<br />
Finalists and PSAT Testing<br />
by Polly Michelle Gwan<br />
Academics Reporter<br />
On <strong>October</strong> 13, <strong>2010</strong>, many <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> juniors, sophomores,<br />
and freshman participated in the national PSAT testing exam. The PSAT, an<br />
acronym for the Preliminary Scholar Aptitude Test, is a test taken by almost<br />
all juniors across the United States in hopes of being named a National Merit<br />
Scholar and receiving scholarships offers to multiple schools all over the<br />
country. In order to qualify for National Merit Scholars, junior students must<br />
take the PSAT and must have one of the top 50,000 scores in the country, of<br />
those 50,000 scores juniors are either chosen as one of the 34,000 Command<br />
Students or one of the 16,000 National Merit Semifinalist. Of that 16,000,<br />
only 15,000 will be chosen as National Merit Finalists. In the end of the process,<br />
1,300 students will be chosen as Special Scholarship recipients and<br />
8,400 will finally be chosen as National Merit Scholarship winners.<br />
In recent years, RHS has been proud to have many prestigious students<br />
be named as National Merit Scholars including: Matthew Moore and Wesley<br />
Henderson (2006), Aubri Teague (2007), Anna Ward (2008), and Collin<br />
Smith and Matt Robertson (2008-09). This year, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> is again proud<br />
to name two students, Valerie Wheat and Elizabeth Sawyer, as National<br />
Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalist. Now, they will continue on in the process<br />
towards being named National Merit Scholars.<br />
Le Français au Lycée <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
submitted by Mrs. Greenwood<br />
RHS French Teacher<br />
Le Cercle français du Lycée <strong>Ruston</strong> a commencé l‘année avec grand<br />
élan. On ne manque pas de projets pour cette année. Quelques activités<br />
prévues sont :<br />
1. La Table Française – Une réunion détendue des élèves du Français pour<br />
parler français et pour s‘amuser. La première réunion a eu lieu mardi après<br />
midi à Crescent City. Nous espérons que des élèves de Cedar Creek vont<br />
nous joindre la prochaine fois.<br />
2. Notre première réunion de Boules et Beignets va avoir lieu le 23 octobre,<br />
où nous allons planifier pour La Semaine Française…et bien sûr, jouer<br />
aux boules et manger des beignets.<br />
3. La Semaine Française – le 4 – 10 novembre. Les activités seront annoncées.<br />
4. Le Congrès d’ALCFES – le 4 - 6 février – un weekend de « FUN » en<br />
français avec des élèves de toute la Louisiane (à Lafayette).<br />
5. Un voyage en France et en Suisse – le 24 mars – 3 avril. Nous allons<br />
visiter la belle Paris, les châteaux de la Loire, les plages de Normandie, et<br />
le Lac Lucerne en Suisse.<br />
D’autres projets prévus sont, le Bearcat World Tour avec les élèves en<br />
espagnol et en allemand, et le Mardi Gras.<br />
Les membres du Comité Directeur du Club Français<br />
Co-Président - Elizabeth Sawyer<br />
Co-Président - Meny Hernandez<br />
Publicitaire - Shelby Giddings<br />
Secrétaire - Mary Conly Hammons<br />
Chef d‘activités - Benecia King
A<br />
cademia<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 5<br />
PTA Supports RHS<br />
by Jocria Thompson<br />
Social Reporter<br />
The PTA is the Parent Teacher Association of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. It was formed about 6 years ago by a group of parents looking to<br />
support the teachers and students of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>. The PTA Officers of <strong>2010</strong>/2011 are Melinda McIntire-President; Tisdale McDonald-<br />
Treasurer; Ammi Schillinger-Secretary; Renee Davison-Sweatshirt Committee; Nancy Diaz-Newsletter Committee; Julie Kyte-Corporate/<br />
Family Sponsorship (President next year); and Beth Craig-Membership.<br />
This year, PTA will participate in a number of activities, including The Bridge Newsletter which comes out twice a year and "bridges"<br />
the information gap between students and parents and The Christmas Coffee for Staff and Teachers. There is also Teacher/Staff Appreciation<br />
Week and many more. The PTA board meets once a month at RHS in the Teachers Lounge. Several of the board members are rotating<br />
off the board at the end of this year so they are looking for parents who would like to join our board. Please contact Melinda McIntire<br />
for any information. Also, it only costs $10.00 a year per family to join the PTA. Please encourage your parents to join the RHS PTA as<br />
supporters of our RHS teachers and staff so they can be the best high school in Louisiana and prepare the students for their future careers.<br />
SHARP CATS<br />
submitted by Mrs. Thomason<br />
Freshman Academy<br />
Polly’s Declassified Freshman<br />
Survival Guide: Classroom Don’ts<br />
by Polly Michelle Gwan<br />
Academics Reporter<br />
NO….<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
RHS Freshman Academy recognizes<br />
<strong>October</strong> Sharp Cats!<br />
The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Freshman<br />
Academy is proud to recognize some of<br />
our outstanding students each month by<br />
naming them <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Sharp Cats.<br />
The academy faculty feels that honoring<br />
exceptional students is an important part<br />
of supporting and encouraging our freshmen.<br />
Each month, 6 students from the<br />
Freshman Academy are nominated by<br />
their teachers to join the ranks of the<br />
Sharp Cats. Through their accomplishments,<br />
the students selected for this program<br />
have set an outstanding example in<br />
some aspect of campus life. Some students<br />
have exhibited an intense rigor for<br />
academics or demonstrated their love of<br />
learning. Some have enhanced their<br />
grade point average standing while others<br />
have shown exemplary attitudes and behavior.<br />
They are determined to learn and<br />
genuinely lead and inspire others on our<br />
campus. It is with great pride that we<br />
present to you these students...for they are<br />
truly Sharp Cats!<br />
We are so proud of our freshmen, and<br />
we hope that you will join us in our appreciation<br />
of these extraordinary students:<br />
Chandler Haddox, Kaitlyn Heiden, Garrett<br />
Hipp, Ashley Reynolds, Chance<br />
Rhone, and Deondray Spivey.<br />
Walking on left side of the hallway! This is America - not England.<br />
Hugging the opposite gender! Save that for church.<br />
Getting attitudes with teachers and walking out on them! You will get a referral.<br />
Revealing areas on your body that don‘t want to be seen! It‘s not your first birthday,<br />
so don‘t wear the suit.<br />
PDA in the hallway! 3 FEET, 3 FEET!<br />
Dirty words! *GASP* Your Mammy would be ashamed.<br />
Tight, tight clothes! You‘re a RHS student, not Katy Perry.<br />
Running in the hallways! It gives upperclassmen more reasons and chances to<br />
trip you.<br />
New Tech Announces VIPS<br />
submitted by Mrs. Cox-Bonial<br />
NT@R Coordinator<br />
Where’s Rusty? . . . Cells to the Rescue! . . . Boo Who? . . . What Not to ‘Net . . . Patent<br />
Pending . . . What is Life? . . . How To Manual . . . New Tech Tool Kit . . .<br />
Each of these cryptic phrases reflects a title from the first curricular projects recently<br />
rolled out by the New Tech @ <strong>Ruston</strong> staff. From Global Studies to Biology to<br />
Animation and Visual Effects to Geometry and Algebra I, NT@R students have been<br />
engaged in rigorous challenges that have resulted in a diverse array of project products.<br />
To encourage the students to stretch themselves in creating and developing excellent<br />
products, the NT@R staff has begun the practice of naming its VIPS: Very Impressive<br />
Project Students. Each set of VIPS represent the student groups who did<br />
the most outstanding work with the project products and presentation.<br />
Consideration is given to the different components of projects, such as oral presentation,<br />
multi-media, product development, and group dynamics and success. The first<br />
group of VIPS included the following:<br />
ALGEBRA I:<br />
Alicia Mitchell-Love, Tanner Stark, Jed Davidson, and Tyler Townsend;<br />
Caleb White,<br />
Katie Sawyer, and Emily Compton<br />
ANIMATION AND VISUAL EFFECTS:<br />
Best Video: Henry Thompson, Stephen Hall, Joey Franklin and Alexis White;<br />
Best Audio: Britt Manning, Shelton Wooley, Melinda Martin, Michael Tolar,<br />
and Darby Rowland;<br />
Best Ad: Treigh Allen, Mary-Hollis Graham, Andrea Long,and Jeffrey Early<br />
BIOLOGY:<br />
Anna Claire Wyatt and Jack Lindsey; Josh Chrisman, Ryan Dooley, Jamarius<br />
Washington, and Daniel Kimrey; Aranaye Clay, Caleb White, Sam McIntire,<br />
and Charis Kennedy<br />
GEOMETRY:<br />
Jonathan Craig, Brianna Worley, and Erick Huynh<br />
GLOBAL STUDIES:<br />
Kristen Clark, JaMari Harris, Dusty Thomas, Jamarious Washington, Jermiran<br />
Spivey and Michael Tolar; Lillie Perry, Tray Brown, and Nate Perry; Jonathan<br />
Craig, Josh Chrisman, Montrel Davis, and Thristan Cecil<br />
Congratulations to these outstanding students and their impressive work. The New<br />
Tech @ <strong>Ruston</strong> staff looks forward to the continued growth and development of the<br />
student body and the ongoing progress each will make in producing excellent work<br />
worthy of recognition. Keep reaching higher!
A<br />
cademia<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 6<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
Resume’s Reminders<br />
submitted by Samantha Wilson<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Resume’ Staff<br />
BUY YOUR <strong>2010</strong>-2011 NOW! Pre-order sales for<br />
this year‘s yearbook are available for $40 in Mrs. Strickler‘s<br />
room, 208. The 2009-<strong>2010</strong> yearbooks are still available<br />
for $45 dollars.<br />
SENIORS! Reserve a spot in your senior yearbook<br />
today! Stop by Mrs. Strickler‘s room or ask a staff member<br />
about purchasing an ad as a senior to be placed in the<br />
<strong>2010</strong>-2011 yearbooks. Last but not least, support your<br />
RHS Resume‘ by purchasing baked goods for the Halloween<br />
bake sale on 27 th , 28 th , 29 th. Thank you for your<br />
continued support!<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Online Training<br />
for Students and Teachers<br />
Website:http://lincolnschools.simplek12.com/<br />
Students' User ID is firstnamelastname and the password<br />
is password.<br />
LOGIN EXAMPLE:Randy Foster would be randyfoster<br />
and password.<br />
Click CONTINUE to access online courses such as:<br />
"What Students Need to Know About the Internet," Web<br />
2.0 Tools, and Microsoft Office Training.<br />
If questions, please email Debbie Pender<br />
dgpender@lincolnschools.org) or call her at (255-1430).<br />
RIGOR, RELEVANCE, AND RELATIONSHIPS<br />
RUSTON HIGH SCHOOL<br />
2009-<strong>2010</strong><br />
RECOGNIZED AGAIN FOR<br />
EXEMPLARY ACADEMIC GROWTH<br />
CONGRATULATIONS STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF<br />
FOR PROVING THAT RUSTON HIGH SCHOOL PROVIDES<br />
A QUALITY EDUCATION FOR A QUALITY LIFE!<br />
Rotary Club<br />
Winners<br />
by Polly Michelle Gwan<br />
Academics Reporter<br />
Congratulations to the September <strong>2010</strong>, Rotary Club<br />
Winners! To qualify as a RHS Rotary Club Winner, you<br />
must be a senior with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher<br />
and be an officer or a member of at least one RHS club<br />
or organization.<br />
September‘s Rotary Club Winners are Elizabeth<br />
Sawyer and Valerie Wheat. Congratulations to both<br />
girls for receiving such high honors!!<br />
Rotary Club Winners<br />
Month<br />
September<br />
<strong>October</strong><br />
November<br />
December<br />
January<br />
Students<br />
Elizabeth Sawyer<br />
Valerie Wheat<br />
TBA<br />
TBA<br />
TBA<br />
TBA
T<br />
eacher Spotlights <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 7<br />
Name: Kellye Ratcliff<br />
Position at RHS: 9th grade counselor<br />
Family: Wade (husband), Marley and Sydney (daughters)<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: Magnolia <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 1987<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech Math and Speech Education, Masters in Counseling<br />
Teaching experience: 3 years at RJHS, 11 years at RHS<br />
Favorite team/sport: Arkansas Razorback Football, Bearcats all sports<br />
Favorite Quote: ―What is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right.‖<br />
If you could have one wish what would it be? See all students be happy and do well<br />
Is there anything you would like the students to know about you? I love <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>!<br />
Pet peeve: Not treating others with respect<br />
Name: Dawna Keys<br />
Family: George (husband), Ryan, Justin, Seth, Adam, Quint (sons)<br />
Position at RHS: 10th grade counselor<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: Jonesboro– Hodge<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech, Business and Counseling<br />
Teaching experience: 21years at RHS<br />
Favorite childhood memory: Getting up early on Christmas morning to see what Santa brought<br />
Favorite team/sport: <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> - all sports<br />
Pet peeve: Students who do not perform to the best of their abilities!<br />
Name: Diana Humphries<br />
Pet peeve: lazy students<br />
Family: Ben (husband), Kelly, Molly, Maggie (daughters)<br />
Teaching experience: 28 years<br />
Position at RHS: 11th grade counselor<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 1980<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech English, Masters in Counseling<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I don't get embarrassed<br />
Favorite childhood memory: I had the perfect childhood with two awesome parents!<br />
Favorite team/sport: RHS Bearcats - all sports<br />
Favorite Quote: ―To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.‖<br />
Is there anything you want the students to know about you? I want the best for my students and will do all I can to help them.<br />
Name: Kay White<br />
Family: Russell White (husband), Jon and Graham (sons)<br />
Position at RHS: 12th grade counselor<br />
<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> attended/year: Natchitoches Central <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>– 1983<br />
College attended/ major: LA Tech Bachelor‘s of Science, Business Education Major, Minor English,<br />
Master of Arts: Secondary <strong>School</strong> Counseling<br />
Teaching experience: 11 years at RHS, 9 years at Louisiana Technical College<br />
Favorite team/sport: Supports all Bearcat teams!<br />
Favorite quote: The most wasted day of all is that on which you have not laughed.<br />
Pet peeve: Whining<br />
Name: Jan Martin<br />
Family: Stanton (husband), 2 children, 1 grandchild, and 3 dogs<br />
Position at RHS: Guidance Secretary<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 1978<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech, Business<br />
Teaching experience: 15 years<br />
Favorite childhood memory: Going to the beach in the summer<br />
Favorite team/sport: RHS all sports!
T<br />
eacher Spotlights <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 8<br />
Name: Walter Moss<br />
Family: Michee (wife) and two kids<br />
Position at RHS: Band Director<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: Ouachita <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> back before Super Wal-Marts<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech - music, ULM - Masters<br />
Teaching experience: 18 years at RHS<br />
Favorite childhood memory: I was never a child<br />
Favorite quote: ―In God we trust… all others pay cash.‖<br />
Name: Rebecca Strickler<br />
Pet peeve: Lying, cheating, and stealing<br />
Family: Jay (husband), Chris, Anna (children), Dan, Chris, Michael (step kids)<br />
Position at RHS: Art 1<br />
Clubs/organizations advised: Art Club, Yearbook (Resume‘)<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: Homer <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 1983<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech, Art Education<br />
Teaching experience: 7 years<br />
Most embarrassing moment: While in a European art museum, I hooked arms with a man who I thought was my husband, but wasn't!<br />
Favorite childhood memory: Traveling with my family in my dad‘s plane<br />
Favorite team/sport: New Orleans Saints… Who Dat!!<br />
Name: Mindy L. Martin<br />
Pet peeve: When people say ―at‖ at the end of a sentence!<br />
Family: My dog Jasper<br />
Teaching experience: 7 years<br />
Position at RHS: Choir and piano<br />
Favorite team/sport: <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Bearcats!<br />
<strong>High</strong> school attended/year: Vanderbilt Catholic <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 2004<br />
College attended/major: LA Tech, Bachelor in Music Education<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I fell backwards in a chair while teaching and a student caught me.<br />
Favorite childhood memory: All the camping/ hiking trips in the mountains with my dad<br />
Favorite Quote: ―Nothing is more intolerable than to have to admit to yourself your own errors.‖ -Ludwig van Beethoven<br />
If you had one wish it would be? Unlimited funds for traveling<br />
Is there anything you would like the students to know about you? It would be great if I said ‗I‘m tone deaf.‖<br />
Cats and Dawgs in Harmony<br />
by Emily Moore<br />
Arts Reporter<br />
LA Tech Bulldogs and <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Bearcats make our union stronger<br />
through music. <strong>October</strong> 8, <strong>2010</strong>, the Tech drum line came to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
during second period to speak with the Bearcat drummers. There were even<br />
some <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Alumni in the Tech band! The <strong>Ruston</strong> drum line took<br />
away with it some great new techniques. Senior Matthew Sanders, a snare<br />
drummer, said, ―It was AWESOME!‖ Another snare drummer, senior<br />
Bradlee Martin, shared Matthew‘s enthusiasm saying, ―It was COOL!‖<br />
Junior and first bass drum, Ora Cater, answered, ―It was nice and there was<br />
one cute guy.‖ Most all percussionists stated that it was a good experience.<br />
On Saturday, <strong>October</strong> 9, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>‘s band, along with other local<br />
high school bands, joined at the Tech stadium. Band members from Sterlington,<br />
Neville, Rayne, and others joined the Tech band in playing<br />
―America the Beautiful‖ on the field at half time. The Tech drum line<br />
joined forces again with the Bearcat band again on <strong>October</strong> 13, <strong>2010</strong>, at<br />
Tech‘s band room. With all of the time these two <strong>Ruston</strong> school bands are<br />
spending together, there is no question that the Cats and Dawgs are most<br />
certainly singing and playing in harmony.
E<br />
ditorials/Opinions <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 9<br />
Students Talk SACS<br />
by Jocria Thompson<br />
Social Reporter<br />
On Wednesday <strong>October</strong> 5 th , the students at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> were told that there were many important<br />
people visiting our school and that they were from SACS. The visitors would be touring our school,<br />
interviewing students, and observing classes. Despite the significance of this visit, many students at<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> have no idea what SACS is. SACS is an acronym for the Southern Association of<br />
Colleges and <strong>School</strong>s. It is an organization developed to determine if a state‘s school systems, including<br />
public and private schools, are accredited.<br />
We asked one of the students interviewed by SACS, Fre‘Drecia Payne, how it felt to get chosen. She<br />
told <strong>Chatterbox</strong>, ―It felt good when I got chosen to be interviewed. It felt like all of my hard work in<br />
school paid off. To me, it was an honor to be chosen to represent <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> at an important<br />
time.‖ We also asked her if there was anything she would like to tell RHS students about SACS. She<br />
told us, ―SACS is very important because it shows people and other schools how great <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong> is. By passing, we let others know that we are capable of only the best.‖<br />
All of the students who represented <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> did a wonderful job. They represented every<br />
day kids at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>. They also demonstrated that <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> has hard working students. We<br />
should all try our best in everything we do as we never know when we are going to be called to step up<br />
and perform. On behalf of the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> staff and students, we thank each of these students<br />
for representing our school with character and integrity.<br />
SACS students interviewed relax after posing for the ―official‖ picture:<br />
(Top row, from left to right) Beau Russell, Mary Glen Lyons, Demario<br />
Mitchell, Taylor Kaufman, and John David Moore.<br />
(Bottom row, from left to right) Fre‘Drecia Payne, Jake Kyte, Neisha<br />
Sirawardane, Ashley Davison, and Cyril Nolan.<br />
Respect Your Elders, Sonny<br />
by Lauren Townsend<br />
Asst. Editor<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> goes way back, way back to the<br />
day of the dinosaurs! I‘m joking; <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> is just old,<br />
not pre-historic. <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> was started in 1921;<br />
thus, our school has a long list of alumni that is continually<br />
growing as each year passes. Some alumni couldn‘t<br />
leave RHS, so they taught here. One you may know is<br />
Mrs. Julie Stephenson, who not only came back to <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
but also won the Teacher of the Year award. Another<br />
teacher who was a RHS student teacher was Mr. Ruth Potts, who is now retired. Other<br />
alumni include <strong>Ruston</strong> businessman Johnny Maxwell, humanitarian Cherry Pratt<br />
Kirkpatrick, and the Physician, Scientist, and Educator, Dr. Joan Blondin.<br />
So why do alumni matter at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>? Some students claim, ―It is nice being<br />
able to talk to our teachers about school, especially since they experienced the same<br />
school life and problems we are facing now. Teachers who went to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> are<br />
more comfortable to talk to because they are more familiar with our school life than<br />
teachers who went to different schools.‖ Another reason could be that RHS alumni<br />
have advice they can pass down to modern-day students. The best thing about alumni<br />
is listening to their funny stories about the teenage drama they went through during<br />
high school. So respect the Elderly Bearcat because he may just know something that<br />
you could use in the future!<br />
“Situation”: Head to the Gym for Safety<br />
by Elizabeth Smith<br />
Business Manager<br />
On September 21, <strong>2010</strong> <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> was put under ―lockdown‖ because a<br />
―situation‖ had taken place across the street. Many students on 1 st lunch shift<br />
were enjoying their lunches, and 4 th hour students were wishing it was their<br />
lunch shift, when all were interrupted as students and teachers were instructed to<br />
leave their classes or their lunch, make their way to the boy‘s gym, and sit in the<br />
top sections. Many students, at first, did not know what was going on but that<br />
their ignorance soon banished due to outside ―sources‖ (their cell phones).<br />
Students and teachers reactions to this new and very different kind of<br />
―lockdown‖ were witnessed by all those in attendance. Some students began to<br />
panic but many others just did not care; they were happy to be out of class. Also,<br />
while waiting to be informed, out of excitement and boredom students began to<br />
randomly clap and do ―the wave‖. This took place for several minutes until Mr.<br />
Milstead came out and said, there was a ―situation‖ across the street and that<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> was taking an extra precaution, because they did not know what the man<br />
had or if he might decide to reap havoc onto the school. Thus, this is why students<br />
had to go the gym and miss 4 th hour. After Mr. Milstead‘s announcement,<br />
1 st lunch went to class and 2 nd lunch went on to lunch, because the situation was<br />
over. <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> was safe once more!
E<br />
ditorials/Opinions <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 10<br />
Neville Never! <strong>Ruston</strong> Forever!<br />
by Gray Taylor<br />
Graphics Designer<br />
Crime Rates<br />
by Shamario Daniel<br />
Club Reporter<br />
Have you ever wondered why crime rates have gone<br />
up? I think I know one reason on why it has increased. I<br />
think the crime rate has gone up because many people<br />
don‘t have anyone to look up to or rely on during their<br />
time of need. As such, we should open up to those in<br />
need. Just as important, people need to take responsibility<br />
for their own actions and be held accountable at all<br />
ages.<br />
A Rayville police officer was shot and killed during a<br />
burglary call. An officer in <strong>Ruston</strong> was shot while answering<br />
a call at a local repair shop; he now faces a long<br />
recovery time after being in critical condition. It seems<br />
we hear more everyday about increasing crime rates.<br />
Police officers are very important and people should<br />
treat them with more respect. I had two family members<br />
who were policemen who were killed, and I have two<br />
family members who are in the force now.<br />
Instead of blaming crime on lack of police enforcement,<br />
let‘s remember that police officers can do just so<br />
much. Reducing crime rates requires the police to enforce<br />
the laws, but even more, it requires that people<br />
accept responsibility for their actions. We all need to do<br />
what we can to help.<br />
Yoplait; For Each Lid<br />
YOU Can Make a Difference<br />
by Lauren Townsend<br />
Asst. News Editor<br />
You scream, I scream; we all scream for… YO-<br />
GURT? Not only is yogurt a healthy, delightful<br />
treat for all, but it is also a hero to breast cancer<br />
patients. Yoplait® is collecting its lids not to recycle<br />
but to donate 10 cents to Susan G. Koman for<br />
the Cure® for each lid sent in. Each year Yoplait®<br />
asks yogurt lovers to send in the tops by December<br />
21 st in order to donate a guaranteed sum of<br />
$500,000.00; right now the amount donated is up<br />
to $1.6 million! Every lid is a step toward saving a<br />
life from breast cancer.<br />
Yoplait® isn‘t just donating to any cancer cause<br />
organization; Susan G. Koman for the Cure® has a<br />
story and a purpose. Susan G. Koman was a woman<br />
who had love, friendship, and unfortunately,<br />
breast cancer. Even though she was diagnosed<br />
with this dreadful illness, she did not give in to<br />
grief; she became a fighter. Throughout her sickness,<br />
she worked on ideas on how she could help<br />
fellow breast cancer patients cope and fight against<br />
the disease. She never did give up, even towards<br />
the end of her life. Even though she did not entirely<br />
defeat breast cancer, she did leave behind hope<br />
and the will to keep on fighting for all patients; her<br />
legacy and war on breast cancer is now carried on<br />
by her sister, Yoplait®, and fellow warriors<br />
against the disease.<br />
So what can you do to save a life? It is a very<br />
simple process that anyone can do. First, you go to<br />
any store in your area that sells Yoplait ® products,<br />
such as Yoplait® Original or Light yogurt.<br />
Next, grab a spoon and chow down on your delectable,<br />
healthy treat. Finally, follow these three easy<br />
steps: save, rinse, and mail to Yoplait®. For every<br />
lid you send in, Yoplait® donates 10 cents to Susan<br />
G. Koman for the Cure® to help women with<br />
breast cancer. Who knew that you could help save<br />
lives by just eating yogurt?
E<br />
ditorials/Opinions <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 11<br />
Should Flash Drives be Allowed at <strong>School</strong>?<br />
by Whitney Durrett<br />
Photographer<br />
Almost every student at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> uses a USB Flash Drive. The most popular brands used are SanDisk<br />
Cruzer, HP v100w, Kingston Datatraveler, LaCieiamakey, and Transcend JetFlash. The great thing about flash drives is<br />
that they are light-weight! You can take them anywhere and they weigh practically nothing. Another positive thing<br />
about them is that they are removable. You can get data off of the computer and transfer that info to other computers<br />
very easily! They also hold large amounts of data. Flash drives range from 1 GB to 64 GB in capacity.<br />
Even though there are many positive points to flash drives there are also many negative points to them. They can<br />
carry and spread viruses from computer to computer. If you save a virus- infected file onto your flash drive, it can infect<br />
your drive and the next computer you plug it up to. The virus can hide folders previously saved to the drive and<br />
virus application files will appear as your other files.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> allows and some classes require flash drives for classes and assignments. If the files students save onto<br />
the drives can infect the school‘s computers, why are they allowed and sometimes required for classes? If the students<br />
are cautious about what they put on their flash drives the computers at RHS should be safe from viruses transported by<br />
flash drives!<br />
How to Survive in the<br />
Halls of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
by Patricia Duhart and Jocria Thompson<br />
Social Reporters<br />
1. You have to get to know your teachers.<br />
2. You have to be on time to class.<br />
3. You have to get to know your counselor.<br />
4. You have to have a positive attitude.<br />
5. Stand in your place, not someone else‘s.<br />
6. Do not be in everyone‗s business; that can cost you a trip to jail.<br />
7. Join a club and be active.<br />
8. Instead of just looking at your homework, do it.<br />
9. Try not to get so far behind because it will kick you in the behind.<br />
10. The most important tip is to have fun and get in the school spirit.<br />
I Feel Like a Monster<br />
by Emily Moore<br />
Arts Reporter<br />
Red Bulls, Monsters, Amps, Rockstars, Full Throttle, and Nos; the list goes on. Energy drinks have become very popular<br />
among teenagers and young adults, but what effect do these drinks have on consumers? Studies show that drinking one<br />
a day may not be so harmful, but drinking more than one could be dangerous.<br />
A sixteen oz. can of Full Throttle contains 144 mg of caffeine and 58 g of sugar; that‘s not the worst one. Many teens<br />
drink energy drinks to make up for lost sleep, leaving them cranky and exhausted when the energy wears off. Some athletes<br />
actually drink energy drinks before a game, which can have the most dangerous effect. The way energy drinks work,<br />
they cause the heart to beat faster, which pumps more blood. Running and being active does the same thing. Combined,<br />
these two can have lasting effects. When combined, the heart beats twice as fast as it beats when active.<br />
Energy drinks may taste good and leave you feeling<br />
energized, but are they safe? As long as the consumer<br />
controls his consumption, it shouldn‘t have many bad<br />
side effects.<br />
The three factors to watch when deciding to drink an<br />
energy drink are:<br />
1.) How much sleep is lacking<br />
2.) What physical activity is going to be done<br />
3.) Condition of health.<br />
Beware of energy drinks!
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ditorials/Opinions <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 12<br />
Shout Out: <strong>Chatterbox</strong> Staff and Sponsors<br />
by Stephany Arias<br />
Senior Reporter<br />
This year, we feel that <strong>Chatterbox</strong> is the best it has ever been!!!! This is due to our hard working staff, guest faculty and student writers, our adviser, advertisers, and our great<br />
sponsors who have made this paper a success. If it were not for their hard work, <strong>Chatterbox</strong> would not be nearly as diverse and appealing. Getting this paper in each of our students‘<br />
hands takes a great amount of time and hard work from each of our staff members, but it also takes a large amount of money to get it printed. As such, we are sending out<br />
our love and a big ―Shout Out‖ to each of our sponsors. <strong>Chatterbox</strong> is simply the best, and without them it would not be possible.<br />
Our current Platinum Level Sponsors for the <strong>2010</strong>-2011 <strong>Chatterbox</strong> sponsors are Mark Bartlett,LLC; First National Bank, The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni Association, and<br />
the Garrett Foundation.<br />
Our Gold Level sponsor is <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>‘s own Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Chapter 617.<br />
Our Silver Level sponsors include the <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> Sheriff Office, the RHS Business Dept, and our adviser and his wife, Lloyd and Christy Bruner.<br />
“Fallen” into This Book<br />
by Emily Moore<br />
Arts Reporter<br />
Fallen by Lauren Kate is a wicked awesome story. This book will blow others in the teen fiction genre out of the water. The fictitious creatures in this<br />
story are not so fictitious. In this book, angels, whom many people believe in, make for a more realistic adventure. As a forbidden love more memorable<br />
than Romeo and Juliet, it has a way sick plotline and some seriously rad action that makes this book a five star and soon to be best-seller. Film industries<br />
have already started plans to turn this gripping novel into a major motion picture and there is no question why.<br />
Luce Price is a teenager with a heavy burden trailing her to the boarding school she‘s sent to. Sword and Cross is a reform school for troubled teens that<br />
introduces a whole new world to Luce; it is a world where fiction becomes reality. Nonetheless, this isn‘t the Twilight series; there are no werewolves or<br />
vampires. However, Luce does have her own ―Edward‖ and ―Jacob‖ to deal with in the form of Daniel and Cam. Daniel makes clear that he isn‘t interested<br />
but Luce is sure there‘s something there. Cam appears perfect and he‘s available, and Luce is interested, but her connection with Daniel always comes between<br />
them. Something seems strange at Sword and Cross and Luce starts to wonder if there is something wrong with her. What she doesn‘t know is that there‘s a battle for her<br />
heart brewing, as well as a much more significant battle unseen by humans. Some notable characters appear and bring with them some unforeseen twists. People Luce swore she<br />
could trust betray her and her avowed enemy is actually on her side. Fallen leaves readers in high anticipation for the sequel Torment. This book is a MUST read and it simply<br />
cannot be missed.<br />
Beauty is Pain<br />
by Jocria Thompson<br />
Social Reporter<br />
Beauty is pain when you have to wake up every morning,<br />
Beauty is pain when you do not know how to do your hair,<br />
Beauty is pain when you cannot find anything to wear,<br />
Beauty is pain when you have ten minutes left,<br />
Beauty is pain when your mom is shouting at you to get on the bus,<br />
Beauty is pain when have no jewelry on your body,<br />
What is beauty to me?<br />
Beauty is when you have an hour to get dressed,<br />
Beauty is when you can find that perfect outfit for that perfect date,<br />
Beauty is when you have just enough time to put on that beautiful make-up,<br />
And beauty is when your date tells you ―Honey, you look absolutely beautiful.‖<br />
Obsession<br />
by Shamario Daniel<br />
Club Reporter<br />
Obsession is something that makes you want to cry<br />
Like drinking hot tea without any ice<br />
It makes you want to holler like a toddler without his mama<br />
Obsession is almost like a disease<br />
And sometimes makes you want to fall to your knees<br />
I wonder how bad it feels but sometimes the thought moves you like a wheel<br />
Obsession couldn‘t get any more worse<br />
Than an annoying four year old little brother<br />
If you don‘t‘ know how this thing called obsession feels<br />
You should go run through an open field<br />
Obsession is something serious don‘t let it catch you<br />
Or else it won‘t let you go, and that‘s a promise.
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ditorials/Opinions <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 13<br />
So You Think You Can Dance?<br />
by Patricia Duhart<br />
Social Reporter<br />
There was a lot of dancing at the RHS Homecoming Dance on September 25, <strong>2010</strong>, held at the LA Tech Student<br />
Center. The band, Heavens to Betsy, kept the night rolling by playing familiar and entertaining songs despite the persisting<br />
electrical shortages. Everyone made their enjoyment known by singing along and dancing to almost all the<br />
songs.<br />
It wasn‘t just the music that made this Dancing through Life: the Emerald City of the Wizard of Oz themed dance a<br />
success and the night one to remember. The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Keywanettes and Art classes provided astounding decorations.<br />
Their backdrop was captured by Photographer Tim Garlington, with Portraits Plus in <strong>Ruston</strong>. A special thanks<br />
goes to all of those who put hard work into making this year‘s Homecoming one of the best yet!<br />
Heavens To Betsy performs for RHS‘ Homecoming.<br />
DRIVER’S EDUCATION<br />
• 6 – Hour Pre-Licensing Class<br />
• Course is State Approved<br />
• Must be 17 or older<br />
• Cost: Only $30<br />
For information, call: 251-1234<br />
submitted by<br />
Rachel Huckaby
S<br />
Key Club<br />
submitted by Mrs. Wages<br />
Key Club Sponsor<br />
ervice and Social <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 14<br />
Key Club is an international student-led organization which provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character and<br />
develop leadership. Our RHS Key Club is composed of sophomores, juniors, and seniors nominated by their teachers and is sponsored by the<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Noon Kiwanis Club. Throughout the year, we will complete service projects to benefit children locally, nationally, and globally. Our first<br />
service initiative this year is Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF. This is Key Club's 60th anniversary to assist UNICEF in fundraising to benefit children<br />
across the globe. When you see a Key Club member with their UNICEF donation box, please give to support this worthy cause. Funds will benefit<br />
Operation Uruguay to provide support to the Mandalavos Center. This center provides teens in Uruguay with education and health services. In<br />
honor of the 60th anniversary, help our Key Club reach its goal of collecting $600!<br />
KOM <strong>October</strong> Focus: Goal-Setting<br />
submitted by Aaron Boersma<br />
Senior KOM Council Member<br />
What is PYPM?<br />
submitted by Prenicia Gant<br />
PYPM Member<br />
The month of <strong>October</strong> has been about goal setting for our mentors and their freshmen. But, what is this whole goal setting<br />
thing anyway?<br />
When our mentors met with their mentees earlier in the month, freshmen all set goals to span throughout the year for different<br />
things that are going on. Now, we are not talking ―who can prank the teachers the most‖ kind of goals. We are talking<br />
about setting real goals that not only will help you in school but will also help you in everyday life as well. These could be<br />
things like not having any C‘s on your report card, making all A‘s, or maybe not having a tardy for the nine weeks. By setting<br />
goals like these we commit to working towards something greater.<br />
Goal-setting can be one of the most important steps towards a successful high school career. So whether you‘re a freshmen<br />
or a senior, I would encourage you to take aim and set goals. Who knows where it might lead you?<br />
Did you know that the brain is the boss of your body? Well, if you didn‘t know, now you do; that is<br />
exactly what 1 st grade students of <strong>Ruston</strong> Elementary <strong>School</strong> have recently learned. This science lesson<br />
is the first of eight lessons to be taught by the student teachers of PYPM. Student teachers taught this<br />
particular brain lesson through stories read with great emotion, rhymes, raps, and cheers to emphasize<br />
the brain‘s importance and how it needs ―extra protection‖. The young ladies who participate in PYPM<br />
include: Vanessa Cano, Prenicia Gant, Margarita Hernandez, Morgan LaPraire, Lauren Slaughter, Morgan<br />
Stanley, and Brittany White. These students work to put children on a path that will lead them to<br />
live alcohol, tobacco, and drug free lives.<br />
Bearcats Plant Pansies<br />
by Amy Gibson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
Looking for the perfect flowers for winter? Look no more!<br />
Ms. S. Griffin and her Biology 2 Plant Science class are growing<br />
a variety of pansies, dianthus, and snapdragons. The colors of<br />
these beautiful flowers range from red, white, blue, and yellow.<br />
The flowers planted by Ms. Griffin‘s class are all the way from<br />
Colorado, and were planted on September 15th. Pansies, dianthus,<br />
and snapdragons are good for looks and thrive best during<br />
cool weather. ―Pansies do better when planted while the weather<br />
is cool, around the end of <strong>October</strong>, and during the course of November.‖-S.<br />
Griffin. Once the flowers are ready, Ms. Griffin and<br />
her class plan to plant some of the pansies in the flowerbed under<br />
the flagpole. If you would like to see the flowers, Ms. Griffin<br />
suggests that once they've finished their project, you come on<br />
down to the greenhouse and take a look.<br />
Preparing the Pansies!
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lubs/Organizations <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 15<br />
FFA Forestry Qualifies<br />
for State Competition<br />
submitted by Robert Gilbert<br />
FFA Reporter<br />
The <strong>Ruston</strong> FFA chapter has been training hard for the<br />
annual Forestry competitions. With the first competition approaching,<br />
the team put in many hours of hard work. For a practice<br />
event the team entered Zwolle's invitational competition.<br />
With over 70 teams present, <strong>Ruston</strong> wanted to make a good showing. Though it was just<br />
a practice competition, <strong>Ruston</strong> did well by taking ninth place. Now the team had to look<br />
toward District.<br />
Working hard to get better in their performance, <strong>Ruston</strong> went off campus for<br />
some practice. Also the team brought in the help of a friend, Toby Hammons, an actual<br />
forester, to help teach and give advice. When District competition finally arrived <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
went down to Caney Lake in Jackson <strong>Parish</strong> to compete with 11 other local schools in<br />
our District. After the three hour competition <strong>Ruston</strong> came away with District Runnerup.<br />
Also two students were awarded high individual awards for the day: Layton Richard<br />
in Map Reading and Savannah Best in Sawlogs.<br />
After District the team looked to the first qualifying competition at Area. This<br />
competition was held at Louisiana Tech University where two of <strong>Ruston</strong>'s teams participated.<br />
The Blue team consisted of Savannah Best, Will Edmiston, Zach Hannibal, and<br />
Layton Richard. The Gold team was Chris Calhoun, Travis Morrow, Daniel Kimrey,<br />
and Dusty Thomas. Again <strong>Ruston</strong> did well winning third and fifth places. This ranking<br />
qualified the teams for State competition on November 3, <strong>2010</strong>. Also Layton Richard<br />
was named <strong>High</strong> Individual in Pulpwood. Good luck to both teams at State!<br />
4-H Club Reminders<br />
submitted by Mrs. Thomason<br />
Club Advisor<br />
November Club Meeting: Don’t forget our next 4-H Meeting<br />
is on Thursday, November 4 th during Advisory.<br />
Enrollment Forms: 4-H Members, if you have not turned in an enrollment<br />
form to Mrs. Thomason or Mrs. Tinsley, please do so. These forms let us know your<br />
chosen project area and how to contact you. This form also must be signed by a parent.<br />
We need to have these forms ready to submit at our meeting next week so that<br />
you can get your project book as soon as possible. If you have misplaced your form<br />
or need a new one, please come see Mrs. Thomason (Rm 307) or Mrs. Tinsley (Rm<br />
332) to get a new one.<br />
Bulletin Board: Near Mrs. Tinsley‘s room on the 3 rd floor is the 4-H Club<br />
Bulletin Board. For 4-H news and upcoming events, please take a look here. Also,<br />
at the beginning of each month, a new Clover Chat is placed on the bulletin board so<br />
you can plan for the month‘s events.<br />
Jr. Leader Meeting: Would you like to get more involved with the 4-H<br />
Club? The 4-H Jr. Leaders, known as Sigma Lambda Chi, meet once a month at<br />
various locations around town with high school students from other clubs in our parish<br />
and the 4-H agents. These students help plan and participate in parish 4-H events<br />
in our area. The next Jr. Leader Meeting is November 8 th .<br />
4-H Year at a Glance Calendar<br />
OCTOBER <strong>2010</strong><br />
21- Nov.7- State Fair of Louisiana<br />
23 – State Fair Talent Show/Quiz Bowls<br />
27- State Fair Livestock Sale<br />
30 – Club Officer Training<br />
TBA – Volunteer Leader Training<br />
NOVEMBER <strong>2010</strong><br />
3-5- AgMagic<br />
8 – State Fair Items Pick-Up<br />
Junior Leader Meeting<br />
13 – LSU Football Game<br />
25-26 Thanksgiving Holidays<br />
(See our bulletin board for the rest of the 4-H calendar)<br />
See You at the Pole<br />
by Whitney Durrett<br />
Photographer<br />
<strong>2010</strong> District II Runner-up Forestry Team<br />
Standing (from left to right): Savannah Best, Antonio Wilson (State Vice President),<br />
Adam Bryant, Layton Richard, Haley Grey, Will Edmiston, Zach Hannibal, and<br />
Travis Morrow.<br />
Kneeling: Daniel Kimrey, Dusty Thomas, Robert Gilbert, Chris Calhoun, Jacques<br />
Mathews.<br />
Advisors/Coaches: Mr. Mark Milstead (left), Mr. James Sandifer (right)<br />
―See You at the Pole‖ is a nationwide gathering in which students from schools<br />
across the nation gather at their school‘s flagpole and pray for their school. Many<br />
students at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> attended ―See You at the Pole‖ in the front of the school on<br />
Wednesday, September 22 at 7 A.M. to pray for the school and the students in it.<br />
―See You at the Pole‖ was lead by FCA and the student leaders of this club.<br />
Over thirty students gathered around the flag pole sang Christian songs, prayed as a<br />
group, and then broke up into small groups to pray about unsaved students and other<br />
things within the school.
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lubs/Organizations <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 16<br />
FBLA Officers Attend 5 th<br />
Annual Marbury Lecture Series<br />
submitted by Jared Spiller<br />
FBLA Reporter<br />
On September 28, <strong>2010</strong>, Cedar Creek <strong>School</strong> hosted the fifth annual Marbury<br />
Lecture Series. Once again, the officers of the Future Business Leaders of America<br />
(FBLA) had the privilege of attending. This lecture series was founded in 2006 and<br />
takes its name from William Ardis Marbury, Jr. and his wife Virginia. Both Marbury<br />
and his wife graduated from Louisiana Tech and went on to start William A.<br />
Marbury and Company, Inc.; an insurance agency. At its peak, this company was<br />
the largest insurance agency in the state of Louisiana. Commercial Union bought<br />
the company in the 1950‘s, and in that same decade, Marbury founded Bankers<br />
Life of Louisiana, a credit life insurance writer. Both of these companies are still<br />
thriving in <strong>Ruston</strong>. The purpose of this lecture series is to honor the Marburys‘<br />
significant contributions to the <strong>Ruston</strong> community and to present an opportunity<br />
for citizens to hear a lecture on the business ethics that the Marburys‘ applied to<br />
their everyday lives.<br />
The speaker for the 5 th annual Marbury Lecture was Mr. Bobby J. Conville, Jr.<br />
Mr. Conville is the Vice President of Investments at Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC.<br />
Mr. Conville reminded the audience that you should always be ethical whether the<br />
situation is business or life. He also explained how to decide if something was ethical<br />
or not, and informed listeners that your conscience was your best moral compass<br />
and that you should always follow it. In line with his beliefs, he also warned<br />
students that if they decided not to follow their moral compass, karma would eventually<br />
catch up with them. Mr. Conville‘s speech was very interesting and informative.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> FBLA officers appreciate and send a special thanks to Cedar<br />
Creek for the invitation.<br />
FBLA Chapter 617 Aims for Orlando<br />
submitted by Amber Brown<br />
FBLA Vice-President<br />
Last year, Chapter 617 of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>‘s FBLA captured seven State Championships and<br />
qualified twenty-seven members for Nationals, far passing any other chapter in the state.<br />
This year, members are already preparing to repeat that success as they aim for Orlando,<br />
location of the National Leadership Conference next summer. With the bar set higher every<br />
year for RHS, members will have to start early and practice often to repeat as top dog, or<br />
should I say, Top Cat!<br />
For the first time, RHS will place members into all four of the top individual honors competition.<br />
Brittany White will represent RHS for the Richard D. Clanton Memorial Scholarship;<br />
Natasha Alva will compete for Who‘s Who in FBLA for Louisiana; Jared Spiller will<br />
test and interview for Mr. FBL; and Amber Brown will test and interview for Ms. FBL.<br />
Winning any of these events will be tough as RHS tries to break into areas respectively won<br />
by more established FBLA chapters in the state with years of experience in these events.<br />
However, each of these represents our best chances yet. In addition to competing for Mr.<br />
FBL, Jared Spiller will also be running for District Vice-President, hoping to bring RHS a<br />
state office for the first time in about six years.<br />
This year, Chapter 617 has a record membership of 165. Most of these members are busy<br />
trying to decide on the event that they think will lead them to district and state championship,<br />
from individual to team events. Chapter officers are putting their teams together for<br />
chapter projects and working hard on their Business Achievement Awards (BAA). With the<br />
largest group of our members being freshman students, many chapters around the state are<br />
probably assuming (and hoping) that this is a rebuilding year for us after last year‘s success.<br />
Only time will tell, but the word on the street (well, Room 318), is that this year may be the<br />
best year yet. Chapter 617 aims for Orlando this academic year, and after state, hopes to<br />
have many members say the same thing that the Super Bowl Champion Saints said last year:<br />
―We‘re going to Disney World‖.<br />
This message brought to you<br />
by New Tech @ <strong>Ruston</strong>
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lubs/Organizations <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 17<br />
FBLA Prepares for Annual “Hot Halloween Happenings”<br />
submitted by Lloyd R. Bruner<br />
FBLA Adviser<br />
It‘s that time of year again – time for fire safety fun at Hot Halloween Happenings, brought to the public by the <strong>Ruston</strong> Fire Department with assistance from <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong> FBLA, Chapter 617! As has been the case for the past four years, FBLA members from <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> will work with Mr. Eric Brazzel and <strong>Ruston</strong>‘s finest firemen<br />
to promote fire safety while entertaining the public. Last year, attendance was estimated at over 600 kids, and this year‘s numbers are expected to be even more.<br />
The event kicks off at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, <strong>October</strong> 30, <strong>2010</strong>, at the <strong>Ruston</strong> Fire Department located on 920 E. Georgia Avenue. There will be twelve game booths set up to<br />
entertain the kids, where FBLA members will encourage the kids to think fire safety as they play and win candy. Games include coloring, tossing games, an obstacle course, and<br />
even a smoke trailer. Fire trucks and equipment will be on display, and there may even be an opportunity for some visitors to ascend to the skies in the ladder truck. Starting<br />
around 11:30 a.m., hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be served in the Firehouse Café, prepared by the firemen and served by FBLA members.<br />
The games and fun will last until about 1:00 p.m. Best of all – everything is free! The <strong>Ruston</strong> Fire Department and FBLA encourage everyone to take a few hours Saturday<br />
and come enjoy some family fun while learning about fire safety. Bring your cameras - Sparky will be there! (Rumor is that Batman will be there too!)<br />
What is PCI?<br />
by Shamario Daniel<br />
Club Reporter<br />
Do you know what PCI is? PCI is a club also known as Pre College Initiative.<br />
PCI was started by the Louisiana Tech NSBE Club to equip and encourage<br />
students into going to college. The PCI club meets once a week to work on<br />
community service activities, fun engineering competitions, and personal<br />
growth activities. PCI‘s first meeting was Tuesday, <strong>October</strong> 5 th , in the girl‘s<br />
gym. At the after school meeting, students in PCI participated in a boat building<br />
competition. Diamond Melton was one of the members who won the competition<br />
with a boat that held eleven bottles of finger nail polish. Congratulations<br />
to Diamond Melton.
T<br />
he Arts<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 18<br />
Muffins and Music<br />
by Emily Moore<br />
Arts Reporter<br />
The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Bearcat Choir is busy as always preparing for upcoming events. They are getting ready for their annual ―Coffee and<br />
Carols‖. They are also practicing for this upcoming year‘s events. The annual ―Bearcats on Broadway‖ is in the making. In addition, the most<br />
exciting event coming up is their trip to Europe at the end of the year.<br />
But how are they preparing? Besides practicing and organizing and preparing, they can be found every morning in front of the auditorium<br />
entrance. Their coffee cart sells coffee, cappuccinos, and hot chocolate. They also have yummy banana nut, blueberry, and chocolate chip<br />
muffins. Honey buns, fruit chews, rice crispy treats, and other snacks are available every morning before the first bell.<br />
The choir did a beautiful job on their performance at the Homecoming assembly. They gave all people attending just a little taste of what<br />
they‘ve got in the making. There‘s no doubt that they have left people excited and ready for upcoming choir performances.<br />
Beginning Band<br />
by Emily Moore<br />
Arts Reporter<br />
If you read ―What is Band?‖ in the September edition<br />
of the <strong>Chatterbox</strong>, you were enlightened on what the<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Band really does. This month, it is<br />
the beginning band‘s turn to be in the spotlight. Band<br />
members can always be seen practicing in the field, jamming<br />
out at the pep-rallies, and making spirit at the<br />
games. But where are the beginning band members?<br />
This year, Mr. Moss and Mr. Wood have recruited several new people for the beginning band. With<br />
three freshmen and a junior baritone, three freshmen tubas, a freshman saxophone, and a sophomore<br />
percussionist, the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Band will be set for next three years. Beginning Band is a great course<br />
for any year. Even as beginners, players are accepted into the band family. On home game days, beginners<br />
have several jobs to do. ―Manual Labor Friday‖ is the name for game days. Beginners arrive at<br />
class, grab the coolers, and head to the ice machine. They fill them up with ice then load them in the<br />
truck.<br />
Beginning Band members arrive at the school around 5:00 p.m. along with the band. Members have<br />
their own uniforms, which is a red polo tucked into blue jeans with a belt. Beginners march in with the<br />
band and help unload the instruments that can‘t be carried, then help to load them up afterwards. Beginning<br />
Band is a fun class to take. No one is refused and there is plenty of room. Learning an instrument<br />
is a good opportunity and can be done as credit!<br />
Art Club<br />
submitted by Mrs. Strickler<br />
Art Teacher<br />
Art Club is finally getting kicked off! Sponsors Ms. Ashworth and Mrs. Strickler have planned a<br />
school year of rewarding service projects for members to be involved with that will benefit the school<br />
as well as the community. Our first activity has already begun; members have been volunteering to<br />
face paint at the home football games. Students of all ages have been visiting our booth and leaving<br />
with a design and a smile on their faces!<br />
Work days are taking place so that the Art Club can create their big<br />
fundraising project…our ―paw print‖ ornaments! Last year‘s red and<br />
white paws will have a new look for the <strong>2010</strong>-11 school year. Be<br />
watching for these to be on sale soon. They make great Christmas gifts<br />
for teachers, friends, and even one‘s self! There will also be some with<br />
Sr. ‘11 on them that would make nice gifts for those deserving graduates.<br />
Members are in the process of choosing their officers who will lead,<br />
delegate, and keep us all organized. Stay tuned for more news about<br />
our awesome club, and remember, ―If you don't create change, change<br />
will create you‖.<br />
We have all your instrument<br />
needs at<br />
Piney Hills Music!!<br />
214 N. Trenton Street<br />
232-3002
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<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 19<br />
Name: Trimeche ―Meche‖ Raymond<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Breisha, Tori, Alexis, Tevin, Vee, and Ja<br />
Favorite...<br />
Subject: Prostart 1 and 2 Movie: Life Animal: Lions (I am a Leo) Color: Black Book/Magazine: Tears of a Tiger<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Falling down the stairs sophomore year (two times)<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Some of the teachers & the school spirit<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: FBLA, BUMS, and COE<br />
College plans: BPCC for Culinary Arts and then Culinary school<br />
Your hero: Mrs. Maxwell and Mrs. Hammons<br />
Name: Matthew Manning<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Mom, Dad, sister<br />
Favorites…<br />
Subject: 6th hour Movie: Hangover Animal: Don‘t like animals Color: red Book/Magazine: <strong>Ruston</strong> Daily Leader<br />
Quote: ―Grab a root and growl!‖ -Coach Frasier<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Ha! Next question.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Sports<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football and Baseball/FBLA :)<br />
College plans: LA Tech<br />
Your hero: Superman<br />
Name: Beau ―The President‖ Russell<br />
Age:18<br />
Family: Skip & Carolyn, 3 sisters, 2 brothers (biological) Many more nonbiological<br />
Favorites…<br />
Subject: Meow Movie: Heavyweights Animal: Seanosorous Color: Red Book/Magazine: Bible...duh oh and <strong>Chatterbox</strong> :)<br />
Quote: ―Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer & petition, with thanksgiving present your request to God. And the<br />
peace of God will guard your hearts & your minds, in Christ Jesus.‖ Philippians 4:1-7<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Anything Garrett Warren does in public.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: All 1,111 students<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football, Student Council, FCA, FFA, LYFE<br />
College plans: Northwestern State/ SMU; Business Entrepreneurship<br />
Your hero: Skip Russell and Diana Humphries<br />
Name: Joshua Mayfield (R.I.O.T, Da Truth)<br />
Age: ―Age ain‘t nothing‘ but a number‖<br />
Family: Everybody who loves God & Da‘ Truth<br />
Favorites…<br />
Subject: English Movie: Prince of Persia Animal: Double dragons do exist- I‘ve seen one Color: White/gold<br />
Quote: ―Whatever‘s done in the dark comes to the light‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: ONLY when the truth hurts<br />
What do you like best about RHS: <strong>School</strong> spirit and the whole staff body<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> counts right?? LOL<br />
College plans: LA Tech majoring in Criminal Justice<br />
Name: Reghan Lopez<br />
Age: 17<br />
Family: Kim (Mom), Paul (Dad), Kendall (sister), Jack, Bella, and Chica (dogs)<br />
Favorites…<br />
Subject: Algebra Movie: Top Gun Animal: Dog Color: Pink Book/Magazine: All the Twilight books<br />
Quote: ―Friends are Angels who lift us to our feet when we have trouble remembering how to fly‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Tripping up the stairs<br />
What do you like best about RHS: <strong>School</strong> spirit<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Cheerleading, Key Club, KOM, FCA<br />
College plans: LA Tech/ Marketing<br />
Your hero: Mama (my Grandma)
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<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 20<br />
Ladarius Maxwell (Dre)<br />
Age:19<br />
Family: Shellt Maxwell<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: English Movie: How <strong>High</strong> Animal: Dog Color: Red Book/Magazine: Holes<br />
Quote: ―It‘s not about how hard you can hit; it‘s about how hard you can get hit.‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: When Isacic was chasing me and I fell down the stairs and rolled down most of the stairs.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Pep rallies<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football & FCA<br />
College plans: Southern, major in Business<br />
Your hero: God & Mother<br />
Name: Demetrius Mays (D-Mays, Flomatic)<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Latana (Mom), Desmond, Joshua, Justus (brothers), Jaszmine, Na, Latanisia (sisters)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Band Movie: Love & Basketball Animal: White tiger Color: Blue Book/Magazine: Only read when I have too<br />
Quote: ―What‘s good‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Throwing up all over Cypress Springs<br />
What do you like best about RHS: My black ID<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Band G, and that‘s not for Geek<br />
College plans: Army<br />
Your hero: God and Mother<br />
Name: Amanda Dunn<br />
Age:17 1/2<br />
Family: Claudine (Mom), Eric (older brother)<br />
Favorites…<br />
Subject: German Movie: Final Fantasy 7: Advert Children Animal: Pandas Color: Green Book/Magazine: The Book Thief<br />
Quote: ―I will cut you! ...with my brain‖ –Garrett Mills<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I don‘t have one<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Nothing<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: FBLA, German, Art<br />
College plans: Art Institute / Graphics Design<br />
Your hero: My older brother, Eric<br />
Name: Kawaii ―Kiwi‖ Murphy<br />
Age: 17<br />
Family: Mary (Mom), Philip (brother), Phylicia (sister)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Advanced Math LOL! Movie: SALT Animal: Hamster Color: Purple! Book/Magazine: Seventeen<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Being a Freshman<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Fridays<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: 4-H, PCI, LYFE, FCA<br />
College plans: University of Illinois at Chicago (Forensics)<br />
Your hero: My Grandmother<br />
Name: Danielle McCoy/ Danibaby<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Lounita McCoy (Mom), Alexandria Osborne, Jade Hardy, Samantha Wilson (sisters)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Math Movie: Friday Animal: Dog Color: Red<br />
Quote: ―If you always do what you always do, then don‘t be mad when you always get the same results‖ -Bartlett‘s Poster<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Falling going up the stairs Frosh year.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Athletics<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: President of FBLA, Track & Field<br />
College plans: LSU!!! Geaux Tigers; Accounting<br />
Your hero: My Mom
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<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 21<br />
Garrett Warren<br />
Age:17 years, 302 days, 22 hrs., 54 min., 12 sec. (as of 9/8/<strong>2010</strong> @11:49)<br />
Family: Everybody knows<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: World History Movie: The Goonies Animal: Head lice or tapeworms Color: The color of the African elephant<br />
Quote: ―I play for the team on the front of the jersey not the name on the back.‖ -anonymous<br />
Most embarrassing moment: When I took the door off its hinges at school when I tried to open it .<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Would definitely say Mrs. Humphries (AKA… Mama), and Mrs. White (BFF)<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Track, FCA, LYFE, FCCLA, FFA, Football<br />
College plans: Becoming a Plumber and/or a professional speed knitter<br />
Your hero: My Grandma<br />
Name: Christian Amos<br />
Age: Withheld<br />
Family: RHS Band<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Music Movie: The Core Animal: Horse Color: Orange Book/Magazine: Intune Magazine<br />
Quote: ―The best players play hurt, the losers wallow in their own self pity‖ -George N.Parks<br />
What do you like best about RHS: I will be leaving it in 7 months!!<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Band, Choir, FBLA, <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
College plans: University of Louisiana at Lafayette or University of North Texas; Music/ Journalism<br />
Your hero: George N. Parks<br />
Name: Rhuye Gabrielle Primm (left)<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Mom, Dad, 2 half sisters<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Financial Math - Mrs. Dunbar! Movie: The Hangover Animal: My barrel horse, Mia Color: Tickle Me Pink<br />
Quote: ―You did it; You fix it.‖ -RhuyeNess<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I walked into a Senior class—I was a Frosh.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: The pep rallies<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Soccer, FCA, LYFE<br />
College plans: ULM/ Nursing<br />
Your hero: John Dison<br />
Name: Kaishawn Carter (Lil Doe Boy)<br />
Age:17<br />
Favorite…<br />
Movie: Friday Animal: White Tiger Color: Red<br />
Quote: ―How you wanna do it‖ ―Yea dat‖ ―fasho‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: In 6th grade I tried to jump over a rail and I didn‘t make it<br />
College plans: I want to go to Oregon or Cal. and major in Business<br />
Your hero: Obama<br />
Name: David Myree (Pun)<br />
Age:18<br />
Family: Connie (Mom), Pops (Dad), Ebony, Jackie (sisters), Tite (brother)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Movie: Friday Animal: Dog Color: Red<br />
Quote: ―Keep your head up. Don‘t let anybody bring it down.‖<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Football and Fridays<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football and FCA<br />
College plans: BPCC<br />
Your hero: God, Dad, Mom
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<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 22<br />
Name: Shelby Griffith, Elba, EL, Elsy<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Kim (Mom), Scott (Dad), Kaysee (sister), Maggie (dog)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Spanish with Mrs. Rivera!! Movie: 13 Going on 30 Animal: Hello Kitty Color: Blue<br />
Quote: ―If you‘re not first, you‘re last!‖ -Ricky Bobby<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I don‘t get embarrassed<br />
What do you like best about RHS: I love our tradition! Everyone has their place in the Bearcat Nation<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Varsity cheer, Competition squad, FCA, FCCLA, LYFE, First Priority<br />
College plans: University of Georgia-Go Dawgs! (undecided)<br />
Your hero: My Daddy<br />
Name: Maddie Wiggins<br />
Age:18<br />
Family: Ronnie (Dad), Carynn (Mom), Jordan (brother), Brennan (sister)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Lunch Movie: Heavyweights Animal: I‘m the animal Color: Green Book/Magazine: Outdoor Life, SI<br />
Quote: ―Never take life to serious because nobody makes it out alive anyway.‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I once had one to see what it was like<br />
What do you like best about RHS: We get out early and none of you young kids will<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football, Juggling, Student Council, Jumping Jack club<br />
College plans: either MIT or Princeton, I haven‘t decided<br />
Your hero: Coach Aultman, he is the man of all men<br />
Name: Jessica Grace<br />
Age:18<br />
Family: Dorothy Wilson (Mom), Jimmy Lee (stepdad), Bubba Jon (bro[ duh]), Jennifer (sister)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Any science but math... Movie: Ponyo! Animal: Penguins! Color: Green Book/Magazine: Lock and Key<br />
Quote: ―No man shall judge me on this earth but God on judgment day, so don‘t judge me!‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I had to wear Spiderman underwear in pre-K because I peed in my pants because the teacher wouldn‘t let me<br />
go to the bathroom.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: The end of the day<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: German club and FBLA<br />
College plans: Go to Steven F. Austin/ major in Psychology/ Culinary Arts<br />
Your hero: God<br />
Name: Jeremy Robertson<br />
Age: 18<br />
Family: Karonda (Mom), Angelica and Rachel (sisters), Josh aka chopp (brother)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Lunch Movie: Da Block Party Animal: Pit bulls Color: Red<br />
Quote: ―One Deep = Less Problems‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Don‘t have a clue<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Going home early<br />
College plans: Grambling/ Business<br />
Your hero: Drew Brees<br />
Name: Shelita Collins AKA Lee-Lee<br />
Age:19<br />
Family: Antoinette (Mom), Alozo (brother), Alonia and Shalacy (sisters), La‘Rocky (dog)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Financial Math (thanks to Mrs. Dunbar) Movie: Lottery Ticket Animal: My pet dog Color: Orange<br />
Book/Magazine: Sophisticated Black Hair Magazine (SBH)<br />
Quote: ―100% real, get wit it or get lost, go hard or go home‖ –The Collins sisters<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I asked if buffalo wings come from buffaloes in Coach Aultman‘s class Junior year<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Getting out of school earlier<br />
College plans: Get my CNA license and work from there<br />
Your hero: Jesus
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<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 23<br />
Name: Lizzy<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Regina (Mom), Darrell (Dad), Ebenae, Joy, Rickesha (sisters), Christian, Matthew, Jordan (brothers)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Spanish 2 Mrs. Cazenave Movie: Takers Animal: Elephant Color: Pink<br />
Quote: ―Whatever you are, be a good one‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Falling asleep at least 3 times in all of my 5th hours throughout my high school years<br />
What do you like best about RHS: The Faculty and Staff<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Track & Field & Band<br />
Your hero: My Mama, Marcie McTyer, Mkenzie Rhodes, Mercie Colvin, God, Jesus, Superman, Spiderman<br />
Name: Nakendra ―Ken‖ Foster<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Nikki (Mom), Tye, Kamara, Lou-Lou (sisters), Lekendrick (brother)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Lunch Movie: Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby Animal: dog Color: red<br />
Quote: ―When I started flirting with the hustle, failure became my Ex. Now I‘m engaged to the game and married to success.‖ -Lil Wayne<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I don‘t get embarrassed; everything is a joke to me!<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Sports<br />
College plans: GSU/ Nursing<br />
Your hero: Lil Wayne<br />
Name: Meagan Hammons (Meg)<br />
Age:16<br />
Family: Morgan (sister), Donna (Mommy), David (Daddy)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Marine Biology Movie: Breakfast Club Animal: Sea turtle Color: Yellow<br />
Quote: ―That‘s what she said…‖ -Katherine Chisolm<br />
Most embarrassing moment: When I fell going to the freshman parking lot and got mud on my knees<br />
What do you like best about RHS: BEARCAT SPIRIT<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: softball, FCCLA, FCA<br />
College plans: Nicholls State/ Marine Biology<br />
Your hero: My Daddy<br />
Name: DeMarlo Carter<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Earl K. Spencer Sr. (Dad), Tonya (Mom), Chauncey, Earl K. Spencer Jr. Obrian (brothers), Shanta, Alexis (sisters)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Basketball Movie: Coach Carter Animal: Dog Color: Black Book/Magazine: Holes<br />
Quote: ―The difference between winning and losing is working‖ –Coach Dunbar<br />
What do you like best about RHS: You reading this!<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football and Basketball<br />
College plans: Grambling State University<br />
Your hero: Coach Bush<br />
Name: De‘Andrea Roberson<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Janice Middleton (Mom), Naeem, Timyreon, J‘Colby (brothers)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Civics Movie: ATL Color: Purple Book/Magazine: <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
Quote: ―Let the choices you make today be the choices you can live with tomorrow‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: Cujo stole my shoes and I had to walk around barefoot to find him with my shoes.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: <strong>School</strong> spirit; My Senior year<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Pom Squad, Young Lawyers, German club, PCI<br />
College plans: National Guard & SSU or GSU/ major either Social Worker or Criminal Justice<br />
Your hero: God, my Mother & my Grandmother
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<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 24<br />
Hunter Stafford (Caveman)<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Debbie (Mom), Mark (Step Dad), Chase (brother), Mallorie (sister)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Movie: The Hangover Animal: Snake Color: Orange<br />
Quote: ―Git-R-Done‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I don‘t get embarrassed<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Seeing my friends<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: Football<br />
College plans: I have to have back surgery after I graduate but I‘m going to try to go to ULM or Tech for Wildlife Management.<br />
Your hero: My Grandpa<br />
Name: Xavier Bradford (PHAT PAT)<br />
Age: 17<br />
Family: Yancy (brother), Bieunkah (sister)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: All Movie: Scar Face Animal: Dog– name: Kilo Color: All<br />
Quote: ―Get it how you want it‖<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Funny students<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: FFA<br />
College plans: GSU<br />
Your hero: God<br />
Name: Kiyanah Taylor (Keke & Cinnamon roll)<br />
Age: 17<br />
Family: Meshan, Shonda, Melvin, Melvin Jr., Karmen Parker<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Sports medicine Movie: Blood Line Animal: Cheetah Color: Orange Book/Magazine: Seventeen<br />
Most embarrassing moment: LOL, Really.?!<br />
What do you like best about RHS: Deundre Davis<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: ROTC (9-11) & FBLA<br />
College plans: National Guard<br />
Your hero: Shonda Parker (My mom)<br />
Name: Ryan Moss (Lil‘ Moss)<br />
Age:18<br />
Family: Bryan Moss<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: Math Animal: Pit Bulls Color: Blue Book/Magazine: Joke books<br />
Quote: ―I can‘t accept not trying‖ -Michael Jordan<br />
Most embarrassing moment: I almost broke my leg Freshman year during Spring training.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: All the energy<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: I play Basketball for RHS<br />
College plans: play basketball<br />
Your hero: God & Dad<br />
Name: Josh Phillips<br />
Age:17<br />
Family: Gregg (Dad), Andrea (Mom), Sam, Jacob, Caleb (brothers)<br />
Favorite…<br />
Subject: History/ Civics Movie: Inception Animal: Binturony (it‘s a Bearcat) Color: <strong>Ruston</strong> red Book/Magazine: To Kill a Mockingbird<br />
Quote: ―Mrs. Sutton, they‘re making a sequel to 300. It‘s called 301.‖<br />
Most embarrassing moment: When I was a freshman in a JV soccer game, I went to kick a ball and completely missed it.<br />
What do you like best about RHS: It‘s big enough to make it fun but it is still small enough so that you know most everyone.<br />
Sports/Clubs/Affiliations: LYFE, FCA, Spanish, Soccer, Debate, Football(9), Baseball(9 & 10), KOM, Water polo, Alpine Skiing<br />
College plans: Harvard or Oxford or Grambling (BNFRT)<br />
Your hero: Sydni Wilt, Mary-Kyle McDonald, and Sarah Gordon, (The Trinity) and Robbie Davenport, too.
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<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 25<br />
Ask Russell<br />
submitted by Beau Russell<br />
RHS Class President<br />
Ask the Staff<br />
by Kori Teague<br />
Guest Reporter<br />
What would you be for Halloween and why?<br />
Most people want to be something scary or<br />
ugly, well, meow that I would wanna be a billionaire<br />
so freakin bad! Buy all the things I never had,<br />
be on the cover of Forbes Magazine… JK haha. I<br />
would be Gerry the fat kid off of Heavy Weights<br />
who likes to ride go carts!<br />
What’s your favorite part of Beat Neville<br />
Week?<br />
This year it was after the game when everyone<br />
and their pet dog was out on the field. BFRT the<br />
highlight of my high school career! Thank all<br />
y‘all for coming out! And for people‘s cars who<br />
were vandalized… let the haters hate!!!<br />
Attempt at Parental Peace<br />
submitted by Victoria Wheat<br />
RHS Freshman<br />
Every normal teenager fights with their parents.<br />
It is a part of life! Though it is not admirable to argue,<br />
I and many other adolescents find it a routine<br />
thing. Whether lexical (vocal) or one of those unheard<br />
glare arguments, they leave us, emotion filled<br />
teenagers, irate, upset, and/or possibly bewildered. I<br />
know my parents confuse me often; never explaining<br />
why they say something.<br />
More than likely parents do not say, ―Because I<br />
said so‖ solely to exasperate you or leave you without<br />
an answer. I have found parents say it for one of<br />
three reasons. The first is because they know you<br />
will not understand why they feel a certain way about a situation. The second possibility<br />
is that your parents care about you and know something unsatisfactory may<br />
come from the situation being discussed; maybe they know from personal experience.<br />
The third and standard reason in my family is because your parents do not want<br />
to verbalize inappropriate content that may become a possibility.<br />
No matter what the reason you receive from your parents, it is for your own good.<br />
Do not argue or rebel, because doing one of those usually makes it worse and you<br />
end up grounded if you are me. It is up to you. Allow your parents to be your foes or<br />
let them be your friends, but do not ignore them. The outcome is consistently better<br />
with them as your friends. If they know something from personal experience, trust<br />
their answer. ―Because I said so‖ can be an impeccably logical answer. Accept it, but<br />
only because I said so.<br />
What big events are happening around school?<br />
Around this time of the year, Bearcat Friday is<br />
always big. Many sports are preparing for their<br />
games. The competition cheer squad is preparing for<br />
their December competition. The RHS band has two<br />
marching competitions by the end of <strong>October</strong>. The<br />
Speech and Debate team has tournaments around the<br />
state on some weekends. The fall season has brought<br />
competitions for Bearcats of all sorts. So from all the<br />
staff to the competitors: good luck Bearcats! We<br />
know you can do it!<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong> Online:<br />
How to Get There<br />
by Amber Brown and Natasha Alva<br />
Senior Editor and News Editor<br />
Already, we are making our way towards being paperless.<br />
Some say that when teachers finally stop giving<br />
homework and tests, the world will be paperless. That stated,<br />
it‘s no surprise that many prefer we get rid of all paper<br />
altogether and make everything electronic. With the average<br />
Internet user now online around thirteen hours a week,<br />
the Internet must a great thing! It allows access to so much<br />
information and entertainment at anytime of the day.<br />
With newspapers, current information is easy to find<br />
because it is all right there on the paper. However, one<br />
may have to go back through a million papers to find one paper with the exact information<br />
or article needed. Unfortunately, stacks of newspapers do not have a search engine.<br />
These reasons are why the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> cordially provides you the school‘s monthly<br />
news on newsprint, and then a few days later, on the Internet.<br />
Now, that you know that the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> is online you also need to know how to get<br />
there. For those of you who have problems accessing it at the site listed on page 27,<br />
http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/chatterbox.html, we planned ahead and have another<br />
way for you to find us. Here are step by step instructions so that you can view the past<br />
editions of the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> whenever you want; all you need is Internet access.<br />
Step 1: Go to the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> website http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/<br />
Step 2: Select ―Extracurricular Activities‖ on the red sidebar to the left<br />
Step 3: On the Extracurricular page, select ―Clubs and Organizations‖ then ―Go‖<br />
Step 4: Select <strong>Chatterbox</strong> (it is one of the blue words on the fourth column)<br />
Step 5: Select which monthly issue of the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> you want to view<br />
If you are simply looking for the current edition of the <strong>Chatterbox</strong>, select ‗What‘s<br />
New‖ on the main page after Step 1 above. Mrs. Garrison keeps this up for us so that everyone<br />
can enjoy the <strong>Chatterbox</strong>. If you have any questions or problems, let us know.<br />
The <strong>Chatterbox</strong> reminds all students that everyone has a right to an opinion on issues. If you<br />
have an opinion and wish to write an article, the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> reminds you that all submissions<br />
are subject to staff, editor, and administrative review to ensure that the article provides information<br />
or promotes school pride, and does so without materially disrupting work, does not<br />
cause substantial disorder, or does not invade the rights of these. If you would like your article<br />
considered for submission, please email it to chatterbox@lincolnschools.org or turn it in in<br />
electronic format to one of our staff. Only signed editorials and articles will be considered.
F<br />
un Page<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 26<br />
WARNING: This fun page has been BEETLEJUICE’D<br />
HAPPY<br />
HALLOWEEN!<br />
SUDOKU PUZZLE<br />
IT’S SHOWTIME!!<br />
HALLOWEEN WORD SEARCH<br />
SEPTEMBER ANSWERS<br />
by Gray Taylor<br />
Graphics/Design Editor<br />
BLACK GHOST PUMPKIN<br />
BROOM GHOUL SPIDER<br />
CANDY MONSTER SPOOKY<br />
CARVING MOON TREATS<br />
CHILDREN MUMMY VAMPIRE<br />
COSTUME OCTOBER WITCH<br />
FRANKENSTEIN ORANGE
S<br />
ponsors and Staff <strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 27<br />
<strong>2010</strong>-2011 <strong>Chatterbox</strong> Sponsors<br />
Platinum Level Sponsors: ($200 +)<br />
Mark Bartlett, LLC<br />
First National Bank<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni Association<br />
Garrett Foundation (Grant)<br />
Gold Level Sponsor: ($100 - $199) RHS FBLA, Chapter 617<br />
Silver Level Sponsor: ($50 - $99)<br />
<strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> Sheriff’s Office<br />
Lloyd and Christy Bruner<br />
RHS Business Department<br />
<strong>2010</strong>-2011 <strong>Chatterbox</strong> Advertisers<br />
Business/Organization Owner/Manager/Contact Agent Page of Advertisement<br />
<strong>Lincoln</strong> ACHIEVE Cathi Cox 2<br />
BESTWAY Michael Kolb 4<br />
Seeker Springs Tamie Slawson 6<br />
The Strand Christin Cross 11<br />
Driver‘s Ed Ricky Durrett 13<br />
The Strand Jessica Farris 14<br />
Pow Wow Manuel and Nilda Chinchilla 17<br />
Piney Hills Music Nick Goff 18<br />
Geri G. Taylor Geri Taylor 28<br />
Nick Brown Show Nick Brown 29<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Locker Room Yvonne Craft 31<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> PTA Melinda McIntire 31<br />
Please thank and support these businesses, organizations, and individuals for making your <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>Chatterbox</strong> possible!<br />
If interested in sponsoring or advertising in the <strong>Chatterbox</strong>, email us at chatterbox@lincolnschools.org<br />
<strong>2010</strong>-2011 RHS <strong>Chatterbox</strong> Staff<br />
Senior Editor Amber Brown Senior<br />
News Editor Natasha Alva Senior<br />
Assistant News Editor Lauren Townsend Junior<br />
Graphics/Design Editor Gray Taylor Senior<br />
Senior Reporter Stephany Arias Senior<br />
Sports Editor Christian Amos Senior<br />
Business Manager Elizabeth Smith Junior<br />
Academics Reporter Polly Michelle Gwan Junior<br />
Arts Reporter Emily Moore Junior<br />
Clubs Reporter Amy Gibson Junior<br />
Clubs Reporter Shamario Daniel Junior<br />
Education Reporter Benicia King Junior<br />
Social Reporter Jocria Thompson Junior<br />
Social Reporter Patricia Duhart Junior<br />
Sports Reporter Reed Malek Junior<br />
Sports Reporter Arquisia Williams Sophomore<br />
Photographer Savannah Chrisman Sophomore<br />
Photographer Whitney Durrett Sophomore<br />
Guest Reporter Kori Teague Junior<br />
Adviser/Sponsor: Mr. Lloyd R. Bruner, chatterbox@lincolnschools.org<br />
The <strong>Chatterbox</strong> is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA).<br />
The purpose of the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> is to provide information and to promote school pride. We strive to meet the criteria set by the National Scholastic Press Association for student<br />
journalism. In addition, if a reasonable basis or belief that a publication would materially disrupt class work, involve substantial disorder, or invade the rights of these, it<br />
will not be published in keeping with the guidelines of Hazelwood <strong>School</strong> District vs. Kulkmeier (1998). Signed editorials may be sent to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, 900 Bearcat<br />
Drive, <strong>Ruston</strong>, Louisiana 71270.<br />
Access the current edition of the <strong>Chatterbox</strong> at: http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/whatsnew.html and archived editions at: http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/chatterbox.html
B<br />
earcat Spirit<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 28<br />
What’s Wrong with Showing True<br />
<strong>School</strong> Spirit?<br />
by Keekee Williams<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
Attending an awesome school like <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> provides such a rush of adrenaline<br />
and excitement. There are loads of things to do and numerous activities to participate<br />
in. The years of high school symbolize the bridge between your early days and approaching<br />
years of adulthood. Why not go all out and be all you can be? I think that<br />
every high school student should get into the habit of making high school fun and<br />
―repping‖ your class. For example, at every pep rally there are mini-games played<br />
against each class for the class competitions. If you‘re feeling proud about being a<br />
Bearcat, then you should get down from the stands and join the excitement that taking<br />
part in these contests creates. It doesn‘t matter if your friends will think you are such a<br />
dork and wonder why you even bother. It doesn‘t matter if you think your boyfriend<br />
will be embarrassed and maybe not speak to you for 5 minutes. Just do it! Get out there<br />
and have some fun by showing your support for the teams and <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>. Promote<br />
school spirit by telling others to join you in cheering for the win. Make signs and hang<br />
them around the school. Paint your face with that guy‘s football number that you secretly<br />
stalk. Just be involved in the exhilarating stimulation of school spirit!<br />
RHS Observes Breast Cancer<br />
Awareness Month<br />
submitted by Mrs. Reeder<br />
Cheerleader Sponsor<br />
<strong>October</strong> is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the RHS Cheerleaders, Belles and<br />
Pom Squad are honoring those who are fighting breast cancer, who have survived it,<br />
and those who have lost their lives to this disease. Breast cancer affects one out of every<br />
eight women in America, and many Bearcats know someone affected by this form<br />
of cancer. The Pepettes will start observing <strong>October</strong> as Breast Cancer Awareness<br />
Month each year at one or two home football games and then continue to raise awareness<br />
during basketball season at one Lady Bearcats‘ home game.<br />
RHS Varsity Cheerleaders were joined at the Neville game by the Tiger Varsity<br />
Cheerleaders in a pink balloon release and the recognition of four breast cancer survivors<br />
on the field during pre-game. The cheerleaders and Belles have sold pink t-shirts<br />
sporting a ―Bearcats Wear Pink‖ slogan and are collecting donations for the Susan G.<br />
Komen Cure Foundation by going ―Passionately Pink for the Cure‖ with pink ribbons,<br />
pink pom pons, and pink hair bows. Their goal is to raise $500 to help fund breast cancer<br />
research and education. Join them in helping fight breast cancer by donating $1 at<br />
the Bastrop game to reach their goal of $500 and stay tuned for more ways throughout<br />
the year you can be involved in the fight against breast cancer.<br />
Rusty Continues<br />
His Search for<br />
Ultimate Bearcat<br />
Fans<br />
submitted by Mrs. Reeder<br />
Cheerleader Sponsor<br />
As football season continues, Rusty has<br />
found many loyal Bearcat fans that sport their<br />
red and white and cheer loudly for the Cats!<br />
Rusty has selected three more Fans of the Week<br />
since football season began: Ouachita game—<br />
Marcie Wright, mom of #53 Austin Wright and<br />
Bearcat Belle Baylee Wright; Sulphur game—<br />
Brenda Millage, mom of #1, Chris Millage;<br />
Neville game—Mary Glenn Lyons, senior.<br />
Each fan of the week is recognized during<br />
4 th quarter of the game and wins an autographed<br />
certificate, t-shirt, and concession coupons.<br />
These Fans of the Week will also be featured<br />
on Channel 20 and in the <strong>Ruston</strong> Daily<br />
Leader.<br />
Rusty presents Fan of the Week<br />
Certificate to Mary Glenn Lyons
Senior Ja‘Ren Johnson proved his ability on the field this month by stacking<br />
up 100 + yards per game. Ja‘Ren‘s favorite thing about playing the game of football<br />
is just being on the field. He proudly wears the number 21 as well as the title<br />
Bearcat student-athlete. The amazing running back has received many fine<br />
awards and recognition for his athleticism such as: LHSAA All-state honorable<br />
mention in 2009 and first team all-district the same year.<br />
Ja‘Ren is undecided in both a choice for college and a major. His favorite<br />
thing about Bearcat Fridays is of course his favorite cheerleader, Mrs. Ratcliff,<br />
running up and down the hallways screaming. Be on the look out for Johnson on<br />
the field as he moves the chains and scores touchdowns for <strong>Ruston</strong>.<br />
S<br />
ports<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 29<br />
Freshmen Football Still Setting the<br />
Record Straight<br />
by Keekee Williams<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
Two Students Chosen for<br />
Academic Allstate<br />
by Christian Amos<br />
Sports Editor<br />
With an outstanding record of 5-2, the freshmen football squad are setting even higher<br />
standards in the game and representing <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> the only way they know how - winning.<br />
On Sept. 27, <strong>2010</strong>,in a battle against West Monroe, the young ‗Cats fell short of a glory with<br />
by a score of 20-0. The next game was also played at home on Oct. 4,<strong>2010</strong> against their<br />
country opponents, the Farmerville Farmers. The ‗Cats were again out to prove that they<br />
owned their own football field and they were dominant in all plays in the game. Jamarion<br />
Harris, # 20, arrogantly quoted that ―This game posed no challenge and there wasn‘t a play<br />
our team couldn‘t handle‖. Another tough opponent came on Oct. 11,<strong>2010</strong> - the Ouachita Lions.<br />
This game was switched to the Bearcats‘ home field, where once again the Bearcats prevailed<br />
with a score of 24-6. This elite team of young warriors are setting examples for the<br />
freshmen of next year, and we salute them on all their hard work and outstanding victories!<br />
JV Football Face Tough Opponents<br />
by Keekee Williams<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Junior Varsity football team has been exerting great effort and skill when<br />
it comes to facing the toughest opponents on the gridline. On Sept. 27, <strong>2010</strong>, the junior varsity<br />
players battled with the West Monroe Rebels in an ultimate face-off game. Unfortunately, the<br />
‗Cats came home with a lost; but they gained mutual respect from their opponent. On Oct. 4,<br />
<strong>2010</strong>, the challenger for the next game was scheduled to be the Farmers of Farmerville; but the<br />
game was canceled. Next up for the ‗Cats were the Ouachita Lion nations. Despite a strong<br />
performance by the ‗Cats, the Lions prevailed. <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> students and fans continue to<br />
cheer, applaud, and support our junior varsity football team as they play hard and bring home<br />
the victories and gain experience to prepare them for varsity!<br />
Coach Brown: sideline calls.<br />
Player of the Month:<br />
Ja’Ren Johnson<br />
by Christian Amos<br />
Sports Editor<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Runs as a Family<br />
by Christian Amos<br />
Sports Editor<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> boys and girls Cross Country defeated 17 advanced teams in Clinton,<br />
Mississippi, at the St. Andrews Invitational. Among the 17 teams, one was the<br />
Mississippi State Champs.<br />
Junior Chase Millien ran to first in the boys division along with 3 other teammate<br />
finishing within the top ten. Further, Sophomore Anna Hall ranked in at<br />
third and again 3 other teammates finished in the top ten behind the leader. The<br />
Lady Bearcats defeated St. Andrews by 13 points with a score of 56.<br />
Millien had this to say about his outstanding<br />
performance, ―I am really honored<br />
to run for such a great coach and be<br />
the leader of the RHS cross country<br />
team‖ At the Hamilton Invitational Chase<br />
Millien grazed the trail to fourth. He goes<br />
on to say, ―We are more than just a team,<br />
we‘re family.‖ Anna Hall finished third<br />
overall in the Hamilton Invitational to<br />
lead the girls. Hall stated, ―I just enjoy<br />
running for this awesome team; they‘re<br />
my family and inspiration.‖<br />
Seniors Casey Turner and Nick<br />
Richardson were selected to be on the<br />
<strong>2010</strong> 4-A Academic Allstate list Friday,<br />
<strong>October</strong> 8,<strong>2010</strong>. To make it on to<br />
this sacred list, one must have devotion<br />
on and off the field; most importantly<br />
in the classroom. Both students<br />
are active in many organizations<br />
at RHS. Turner, an offensive lineman,<br />
was broadcasted with a remarkable<br />
3.7 GPA by lhsaa.org. ―I didn‘t know<br />
I got it but I‘m proud of myself.‖<br />
Richardson being surprised by his 3.5<br />
GPA stated, ―It was surprising because<br />
I didn‘t know my GPA was that<br />
good!‖ He goes on to boastfully add,<br />
―It‘s a reflection of my hard work<br />
during the past four years‖<br />
Well done Casey Turner and Nick<br />
Richardson for representing <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
<strong>High</strong> in a very academic way.<br />
Anna Hall and Chase Millien admire<br />
Jay Hilton‘s State Champion picture.<br />
Ja’Ren received recognition as an Aaron’s Ace on<br />
KNOE TV for his performance in the Bastrop game!
S<br />
Cats Lose Homecoming Game to Tors<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> @ Richwood<br />
ports<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 30<br />
On September 24, the Bearcats played their Homecoming game<br />
against the Sulphur Golden Tors and lost 25-15, giving Sulphur<br />
their first win of the season and <strong>Ruston</strong> their third loss of the season.<br />
The ―Tors‖ struck first blood with a seven yard touchdown pass<br />
in the first half. Early in the second quarter, quarterback Chris<br />
Millage threw a six yard touchdown pass to sophomore John David<br />
Moore. A pair of interceptions by Sulphur in the second half put the<br />
On <strong>October</strong> 14, the Bastrop Rams held off a ridiculous Bearcat second half rally to<br />
remain undefeated (6-0). This loss puts <strong>Ruston</strong> at a 3-4 record overall and 1-1 in District<br />
4A play.<br />
The Rams took a commanding lead early in the game thanks to several longyardage<br />
plays. In the first half, Bastrop scored on a sixty-nine yard touchdown pass,<br />
sixty-two yard run, and a seventy-eight yard return touchdown. At the end of the first<br />
half the scoreboard read 36-13, and it began to appear like the game was going to be<br />
the much expected blowout it was supposed to be. But things didn‘t exactly turn out<br />
that way.<br />
The Bearcats came out strong after halftime with a 10-play, 69-yard drive that ended<br />
with a one yard touchdown run in which running back Ja‘Ren Johnson scaled a wall<br />
of defenders and charged into the end zone. In their next drive, <strong>Ruston</strong> went fifteen<br />
plays for seventy yards which ended in another rushing touchdown from Ja‘Ren Johnson.<br />
This touchdown was similar to the previous one he scored. On first and goal from<br />
Bastrop‘s ten yard line, Johnson again ran into a pile of defenders and the play seemed<br />
to be over. He broke free from the pile and scampered into the end zone to make it a 36<br />
-26 game. Blowout? Forget about it.<br />
Bearcats in a 25-7 hole. <strong>Ruston</strong> quickly responded with a 65 yard<br />
touchdown on a screen pass from Chris Millage to running back<br />
Ja‘Ren Johnson. But that would be the end of the scoring from either<br />
side.<br />
If there was any single factor that caused the Bearcats‘ defeat, it<br />
was turnovers. <strong>Ruston</strong> turned the ball over three times, whereas<br />
Sulphur went the entire game without doing so. This loss put the<br />
Cats at a 1-3 record on the season.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Holds Off Neville 20-19 in Epic Thriller<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
On Friday, <strong>October</strong> 8th, the second oldest high school football<br />
rivalry in Louisiana continued when the Bearcats hosted and defeated<br />
their archrival, the Neville Tigers 20-19. In the middle of the<br />
third quarter, Neville led 16-7 after a twenty-eight yard touchdown<br />
run. On the ensuing kick off, <strong>Ruston</strong>‘s Kentrell Brice ran through<br />
defenders to the end zone for a seventy-eight yard touchdown,<br />
making it 16-13, Neville. Later in the quarter, <strong>Ruston</strong> forced Neville<br />
to punt.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> quarterback Pierce Spangler promptly threw a thirtyeight<br />
yard touchdown pass to Toderick Jackson, giving the Cats a<br />
20-16 lead, sending the <strong>Ruston</strong> crowd into a frenzy. Neville responded<br />
with a thirty-nine yard field goal, putting the score at 20-<br />
19. Midway through the fourth quarter, <strong>Ruston</strong>‘s defense forced a<br />
turnover on downs.<br />
With 1:42 left in the game, Neville took the ball and drove<br />
down into Bearcat territory. After a penalty against the Tigers, they<br />
attempted a Hail Mary pass on fourth and sixteen, but it fell incomplete.<br />
The crowd erupted and students in the Cat Box stormed the<br />
field, and the Friday Night Lights shone brighter than ever.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Loses a Heartbreaker to Bastrop 44-41<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> vs. Sulphur<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Routs Richwood 35-0<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
In a completely one-sided affair, the <strong>Ruston</strong> Bearcats shut out the<br />
Richwood Rams 35-0 on <strong>October</strong> 1st.<br />
The game started slowly, with <strong>Ruston</strong> having only a 6-0 lead at<br />
halftime thanks to a touchdown pass from Pierce Spangler to Matthew<br />
Manning. The Bearcats absolutely dominated the second half, scoring<br />
three touchdowns through the air and one on the ground. The Bearcat<br />
offense attained a season-high 413 offensive yards on the game. Once<br />
again, running back Ja‘Ren Johnson had a stellar game, with 177<br />
yards rushing and a touchdown. In the Bearcats‘ opening drive Johnson<br />
ran the ball ten out of the eleven plays, racking up sixty-two rushing<br />
yards in that single drive. Quarterback Pierce Spangler threw three<br />
touchdown passes and Chris Millage threw one.<br />
Not only did the offense put up tremendous numbers, but the defensive<br />
contributed greatly to the outcome of the game, forcing three<br />
turnovers. Junior Cyril Noland recovered a fumble, while junior Kentrell<br />
Brice and senior Madison Wiggins each intercepted a pass. It<br />
seems like every time <strong>Ruston</strong> wins, it is a blowout victory. The Bearcats‘<br />
two wins this season have been by an average of thirty points.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> vs. Neville<br />
Bastrop took over and was forced to punt, injecting a new optimism into the <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
crowd. The ‗Cats went nine plays for seventy-seven yards which ended in a touchdown<br />
by who else? Ja‘Ren Johnson. He would finish the night with an astounding 185 yards<br />
rushing and five touchdowns, all on twenty-nine carries.<br />
The game was now 36-33. The Bearcats had scored twenty unanswered points, and<br />
they were three points away from tying up a game that was a blowout just an hour earlier!<br />
However, Bastrop took the ball and scored a touchdown after a failed onside kick<br />
by the Bearcats, dimming hopes of a <strong>Ruston</strong> comeback victory. With a 44-33 lead,<br />
Bastrop kicked the ball off. <strong>Ruston</strong> drove sixty-five yards down the field and Ja‘Ren<br />
Johnson scored with another one yard touchdown run. Quarterback Chris Millage<br />
scored the two point conversion, making it 44-41 in favor of Bastrop.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> tried another onside kick but it failed. Bastrop took over and let the clock<br />
run out to hold on to a lead that they had held the entire game, even though at times it<br />
seemed like the Bearcats were the ones who were winning. The bottom line is, it was<br />
expected by almost everybody for Bastrop to beat <strong>Ruston</strong>. Even though the scoreboard<br />
indicated otherwise, this game seemed more like a victory for <strong>Ruston</strong> rather than a<br />
loss. The Bearcats never quit, and showed great heart and character.
S<br />
ports<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 31<br />
I Want To Get Bearcat Excited<br />
by Patricia Duhart<br />
Social Reporter<br />
To kick off Homecoming week,<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> experienced their first<br />
lockdown. Despite the mishap in<br />
the beginning, things got rolling<br />
with the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Homecoming<br />
Assembly and the presentation<br />
of the Homecoming Court and<br />
Queen. During the assembly, they<br />
introduced the court and presented<br />
the Homecoming Queen to everyone.<br />
The court and their escorts<br />
looked their best and gave the Bearcat<br />
students and faculty a taste of<br />
what to look forward to as Homecoming<br />
got closer. Later that night<br />
was the pep rally. The Bearcats got<br />
loud and rowdy and showed their<br />
Bearcat pride! With the acknowledgment<br />
of the 10 th , 20 th , and 30 th<br />
anniversary of alumni Bearcats,<br />
RHS Homecoming showed the tradition<br />
our school is always trying to<br />
portray. A special thanks goes to<br />
Patrick Ramsey as our guest speaker.<br />
During his speech, he reminisced<br />
on his past days as a Bearcat in 96‘<br />
and he expressed his passion for the<br />
game of football and the love he has<br />
for <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>. This gave our football<br />
boys inspiration for the game<br />
the next night.<br />
While looking in the stands and<br />
witnessing nothing but red, white,<br />
and black, the varsity football team<br />
knew that they had much support<br />
behind them. Although it was a<br />
tough loss, the Bearcats stayed in<br />
the game and kept fighting! Despite<br />
the heartbreaking result of the game,<br />
everyone put the loss behind them<br />
and danced the night away at the<br />
Homecoming dance held on September<br />
25, <strong>2010</strong>. Homecoming<br />
week had a series of events, including<br />
fans showing their spirit and<br />
students getting jiggy with it at the<br />
dance. In the end, RHS will always<br />
live it up!<br />
Alex Cockerham<br />
Courtnei Dunn<br />
Miyata Bridges<br />
Beth Ramirez<br />
Alli Brasuell<br />
Margarita Hernandez<br />
The Homecoming<br />
Queen being<br />
escorted by Beau<br />
Russell during the<br />
homecoming<br />
assembly.<br />
Queen Markia<br />
Patton being<br />
escorted by her<br />
grandfather and<br />
Principal<br />
Milstead.<br />
Senior court (left<br />
to right):<br />
Lauren Prescott,<br />
Sydni Wilt,<br />
Mary-Kyle<br />
McDonald,<br />
Markia Patton,<br />
Elizabeth Moore,<br />
and Mary Cox
S<br />
ports<br />
<strong>Chatterbox</strong><br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>October</strong> 21, <strong>2010</strong> Page 32<br />
Seniors Win Beat Neville<br />
Week<br />
by Christian Amos<br />
Sports Editor<br />
The Class of 2011 represented well as they defeated the freshmen,<br />
sophomore, and junior classes. With an ending score of<br />
fifteen points, just one point shy of their winning score from last<br />
year, the seniors went on to win the Spirit stick at the ―Game<br />
Day‖ Pep Rally.<br />
Throughout the week, the senior class was represented by Byroneshia<br />
Santiago, Jemario Crowe, Matthew Manning, and Jonathan<br />
Jones. Manning ―crushed‖ the competition in the Orange<br />
Crush competition. During Beat Neville week, the shirt competitions<br />
were a split battle between the juniors and the seniors, but<br />
with the help of their creative idea of ―A Walk Through Time‖<br />
the seniors surpassed the rest. On Monday, the competition involved<br />
a wheel barrow race. The sophomore class was represented<br />
well by Devin Price and Alex West as they were the first to<br />
cross the finish line. In the egg toss game the junior class roused<br />
some ―eggcitement‖ when Jake Haddox and Nick Letendre held<br />
their eggs in hand throughout every toss.<br />
RHS Will Get New $3.1 M Field House<br />
by Christian Amos<br />
Sports Editor<br />
At a very important school board meeting on <strong>October</strong> 5, <strong>2010</strong>, members of the <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>School</strong> Board approved the<br />
funding of a $3.1 million field house to grace the campus of RHS. Construction on the building is expected to begin in mid<br />
2011. Experts say the entire facility is expected to be completed by the summer of 2012. If that holds true, two years from now<br />
all the athletes of RHS will have a bigger and better facility to call their own.<br />
The <strong>Lincoln</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>School</strong> Board voted 10-0 to approve the $3.1 Million project with two members absent. An architect in<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> has designed the much needed field house so that, if needed, add-ons can be made to the structure. This artist is <strong>Ruston</strong>‘s<br />
Mike Walpole. Walpole will serve as Noah to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>‘s Ark. Nearly 200 new lockers, a large weight room, and a large<br />
training room are just some of the features to be included in the new luxurious field house.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong>‘s athletic director, Coach Laird, wants to thank the people that ended the drawn out, anticipated wait, the school<br />
board. ―I want to thank the entire school board‖, Laird said ―I know we‘re in financial troubles, but they have found the importance<br />
of this for the RHS student body‖.<br />
Soon, hundreds of RHS athletes will have a modern area to train and build body and character.<br />
Accessed at www.rustonleader.com