February 14, 2012 - Ruston High School

Chatterbox
The Voice of Ruston High School
900 Bearcat Drive, Ruston, Louisiana 71270
http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/chatterbox.html
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February 14, 2012
Superintendent of Education
for Louisiana Visits RHS
Inside
by Whitney Durrett
Editor in Chief
On January 26, 2012, the new Superintendent of Education for the state
of Louisiana, John White, visited Ruston High School. He visited New
Tech and met with some of Ruston High’s teachers. He spoke with students in New Tech about how they work and how they learn from doing projects. Members of the BESE
Board, Mr. Danny Bell, and Mr. Milstead accompanied him as he viewed Ruston High. (continues on
page 2).
Mrs. Shaw’s Pillow Cases
See Page 6
RHS Cheerleaders: National Champions
by Whitney Durrett
Editor in Chief
The Ruston High Competition Squad went to Dallas, Texas January
7th and 8th to compete at the National Cheerleading Association (NCA)
national competition. This year they competed in the Non-Tumbling
division and the Game Time division. After months of hard work, dedication, and determination to win, the RHS cheerleaders took the title as
the NCA Game Time National Championships for the second year in a
row. Junior, Caitlin Elliott told Chatterbox, “It felt better to win the second time around! It was so much
fun and we are so thankful to have won two years in a row.” (continues on page 32).
Ruston Team FBLA
2nd at Regionals
See Page 16
RHS Distinguished Alumni and Teachers
information provided by RHS Alumni Association
by Elena Till
Assistant News Editor
On Friday, October 24th the 8th Annual Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Educator Awards
Luncheon was held by the Ruston High School Alumni Association. Three distinguished teachers and
three distinguished alumni were honored and recognized at the luncheon. A young alumnus was also honored with a significant achievement award.
The three distinguished alumni recognized and honored were as follows: in the category of Commerce
and Industry, Captain Zane Skinner; in the category of Humanities and Education, Robert M. Lewis; and
in Humanities, Duddy Burkhalter Garrett. The distinguished teachers honored were current teacher Elaine
Johnson, retired teacher Bud Alexander (Coach Bud), and the late Mr. Morgan Peoples. Ryan David Dick
was the recipient of the inaugural Young Alumnus of Significant Achievement.
In the October edition of the Chatterbox, we began a series giving a detailed report on each of these
distinguished alumni and teachers, covering one distinguished alumni or teacher each month. Last month,
the distinguished alumnus Zane Skinner was covered. This month, we continue the series on page two (2)
with a report on distinguished alumnus Robert M. Lewis.
Seniors: Ensure that you get your cap and gown pictures to Mr. Bruner and
your required pictures to Mrs. Strickler by the March. 15, 2012 deadline!
Band Members
Win Awards
See Page 18
Basketbball
Winds Down
See Page 30
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Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 2
Distinguished Alumni: Robert M. Lewis
by Elena Till
Assistant News Editor
Robert M. Lewis went to Ruston High School the first year it received a Triple A ranking and was number 58, playing center, on the football
team. His football career started off great when he made the first all-state football team and received the Coaches Award. This year, his senior
year of 1966-1967 was a pivotal time in many ways and may have laid the groundwork for his life’s work. After his RHS graduation, Robert M.
Lewis continued his love of football by accepting a scholarship to the University of Arkansas where he lettered as linebacker, finishing his career
playing with the nationally ranked Razorbacks against the University of Texas for the national championship. Mr. Lewis received a Bachelor of
Science in Business Administration after four years there. Upon graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Sherard Thompson, and
moved to Oregon to enter graduate school and seminar, earning his master of arts in Greek New Testament and a Master of Divinity in 1977.
Apparently, Robert’s heart and strength was heading in God’s direction as he was the directional leader of the Fellowship Bible Church in
Little Rock for twenty years. During that time, the membership grew from several hundred members to over 5000 and was recognized as one of
the most innovative and influential churches in America. It was also during this time that he earned his Doctor of Ministry from Talbot Seminary
in 1985. His leadership skills have allowed him to launch several organizations in Arkansas including a state adoption agency, a counseling center and a church planting and consulting organization responsible for planting over forty churches. His Sharefest initiative brings hundreds of
churches together annually in Little Rock to serve the community. Also, he continues to serve on a number of boards, with a special heart for
agencies working to elevate the life of the people of Rwanda.
Besides being a devoted pastor and server of the community, Mr. Lewis has many other worthy accomplishments. He has written and produced many books and video
resources, selling over a million copies. His Men’s Fraternity video series is nationally recognized and has been used in over 15,000 churches, hundreds of businesses and
prisons and in twenty foreign countries, including China, Australia, Honduras and Spain. Another accomplishment is that he founded LifeReady, a video production company
that creates resources helpful in building strong marriages and families. In 1997, he was a Gold Medallion Finalist for Book of the Year with Raising a Modern-Day Knight
and in 2001 Lewis was named Pastor of the Year by the National Coalition of Men’s Ministries and was awarded the Community Service Award by the Governor of Arkansas.
Robert Lewis has made his life’s work of being available… to his wife and four children and three grandchildren, to churches and pastors and congregations around our
nation. He has filled the role of a pastor, a writer, a speaker and a visionary. And so, like the football squad in the fall of his senior year, 1966, he has met the challenges
placed before him, and has accepted recognition with honor.
Superintendent of Education for
Louisiana Visits RHS (cont.)
by Whitney Durrett
Editor in Chief
Ruston High is one of the first schools Mr.
White has visited since he was appointed Superintendent for the state of Louisiana. He was
greatly impressed with the school and how
well the students work and how they behave.
During his visit he visited with numerous New
Tech students about their likes and dislikes of
New Tech and they told him about how they
work and how their learning process works. He
also visited with Mrs. Boniol about how New
Tech is run and what is different about it from
the other types of classes Ruston High offers.
After visiting New Tech, Mr. White, along
with Mr. Milstead, members of the BESE
Board, and Mr. Bell, continued to the teachers’
lounge on the third floor to visit with some of
the many wonderful teachers Ruston High has
on staff. They met about students and how
they believe students can have a better learning
experience and what they like and dislike
about the Louisiana educational system.
Mr. White had a wonderful visit to Ruston
High School and was greatly impressed by what he saw. Ruston High is honored
to be one of the first schools he visited and hopes it is not the last time he visits!
Saluting Outstanding
Student Achievement
Throughout the Bearcat Nation
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Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 3
Preparing For College through Speech and Debate Camps
by Jaisle Bailey
News Editor
Last month the Ruston High Speech and Debate team travelled to St. Thomas Moore in Lafayette (STM) to compete in a tournament. Advanced Policy debaters Michael
Davidson and Clark Pierce received first place. Interper Darby Guinn placed first in OI. Even though these students have state bids, they are still hard at work! The team
competed in a tournament at Acadiana in Lafayette on February 3 rd and 4th. We will have those results for the next issue.
Every summer, member of the speech and debate team have to travel to a college that holds a camp. This is required so that students can improve their skills. Popular
camps include Western Kentucky University, University of Texas in Austin, and Michigan State University. The benefits include learning to navigate through a college library, networking with college professors, and experiencing college lectures. This is an all around great experience that helps the students grow as performers and debaters.
Cancer What?
submitted by Colton Boothe
It is that time of year again, Relay For Life! The National Honor Society and I are
gearing up for the big event once again this year, and I have a feeling this may be one
of the biggest years yet for Ruston High. If you did not know yet, last year our team
raised over $10,000! Are you sitting there thinking, “Yeah that is great but I am not in
National Honors Society, so how does this pertain to me?” GREAT, no FANTASTIC
question! Everyone, as in every student and faculty member is part of our team. Without you all and your contributions last year it would have been hard to get to our
$10,000 dollar mark and reach above it. You are a bigger asset than you may think, so
what can you do to help? Well you can tell your friends and family about it, you can
contribute to our fundraisers throughout now and April, and you can come to Relay
on April 20th!
Now in case you had questions, here are your answers (hopefully, if you still have
any please ask me!). Is Relay for Life an actual relay, as in running? No it is not a
running event, people from each team walk the track and the whole point is to make
sure someone is walking the track at all times. This symbolizes that cancer never
rests, and we won’t either until we find a cure. Where does the money that is raised
go exactly? All money goes into cancer research or into helping cancer patients.
New Members for National
Honor Society
by Jaisle Bailey
News Editor
National Honor Society recently sent out applications to students who have a 3.5 +
grade point averages and help out in the community. The following students made
it in:
Colton Boothe
Matthew Cardenas
Parker Carwile
Laura Cason
Farryn Cooper
Rachel Cowell
Channing Dorr
Melissa Dosher
Jacob Duke
Mary Hollis Graham
Chandler Haddox
Maggie Humphries
Sara Jones
Chad Leachmen
Kendall Lopez
Mary Margaret Manning
Courtney McKinney
John David Moore
Ty Oakes
Josh Owen
Zach Passon
Beth Ramirez
Rachel Ruff
Ben Serio
Erica Sorenson
Michael Tolar
Rebecca Wheelis
Caleb White
Shelton Wooley
Anna Claire Wyatt
National Honor Society is also helping out with Relay for Life. See Colton
Boothe’s article for more
When it goes to cancer patients it can range from gas cards to help them travel to and
from treatments, helping to pay the medical bills, and even helping women with
breast cancer learn how to do their make-up and adjust and wear wigs if they would
like. All money goes to helping the patients and to helping find a cure to abolish cancer. Why does it last from 6PM – 6 AM? This honestly is one of my favorite parts.
It lasts 12 hours to symbolize how cancer never sleeps, it never takes a step back and
says, “I have done enough damage, I will give the person a break.” It is an ongoing
battle that the patient fights. At the Relay a sheet will be read that explains this in
fuller detail. Why do the commercials have “Happy Birthday” sung by someone?
Well the song ‘Happy Birthday’ is basically the theme song for the American Cancer
Society and Relay for Life. By assisting patients with their needs, and hopefully finding a cure we give each Survivor another birthday for them to celebrate. Who is the
American Cancer Society? The American Cancer Society is basically the people
behind the research and the handling of the funds to assist patients. They do a whole
lot to help in anything cancer related. Relay For Life is their biggest fundraiser
WORLD WIDE, and raises the most money to combat cancer.
DRIVER’S EDUCATION
• 6 – Hour Pre-Licensing Class
• Course is State Approved
• Must be 17 or older
• Cost: Only $30
For information, call: 251-1234
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Chatterbox
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Ruston High School
February 14 , 2012
French Club
submitted by Mrs. Greenwood
French Teacher
Voilà la chanson que les enfants en France chantent pendant la saison de l’Épiphanie (entre le 6 janvier et Mardi Gras).
Qu’est-ce que c’est « la galette »? C’est la galette des rois - le dessert favori pendant la saison de l’Épiphanie.
Le Cercle Français est en train de préparer notre célébration de Mardi Gras, le 21 février.
Il faut le bien fêter, parce que le lendemain, nous nous trouverons dans la saison de Carême, les 40 jours avant Pâques.
Et pendant le Carême, on ne fait pas la fête (au moins en principe).
La galette des rois – King cake
Le Carême – Lent
Pâques - Easter
Page 4
J’aime la galette
Savez-vous comment ?
Quand elle est bien faite
Avec du beure dedans !
Tra-la-la-la La-la-la-lère
Tra-la-la-la La-la-la-lère.
Science Fair? We Care!
by Moe Labbe
Clubs Reporter
At the science fair, which took place on January 31, 2012, Ruston High had over 110 entries this year. This is the most projects RHS has ever had. The winning students
will compete in the Region II Science Fair on February 16, 2012 at Louisiana Tech University. We will be wishing them luck and will have those results for you in the next
issue. Congratulations go out to all the winners for their hard work. Great job to: Austin Meng, Dara Smith, Laura Cason, Melissa Dosher, Emily Colvin, Rachel Hegab,
Kaitlyn Heiden, Kendall Lopez, Kane Killen, Matthew Brewer, John Herron, Ty Oakes, Chad Leachman, Neesha Siriwardane, Clark Pierce, Seth Scriber, Nic McWilliams,
Macey Sutherland, Aubrey Simmons, Gaby Harpel, Alise Williams, Matt Oakes, Josh Owen, Margeaux Smith, Changin Dorr, Anna Claire Wyatt, Braden Hilton, Erik Martinez-Rodriguez, Landon Sims, Bethany Cardenas, Jonathan Abernathy, Courtney McKinney, Ryan Duke, Jacob Duke, and Zachary Elkharash. All of the participants did a
wonderful job and good luck next year!
To LIGO and Beyond
by Moe Labbe
Clubs Reporter
Last month, the STEM classes ventured to LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) to get a better look at gravity
waves. This is done by sending two lasers perpendicular to one another and observing the interference patterns of their reflections. Also, while
they were there, they got to explore their education center which had tons of hands on activities to explore science concepts. Before they left,
many of the students (including Mr. Frey!) were vacuum packed in large garbage bags. This was a great experience for all the students! The
Mini-Urban challenge is at the end of February and the STEM Physics class will be preparing for the competition to compete and hopefully win,
so we will keep you posted! The challenge is February 25, and we will bring you the results in the next issue of Chatterbox. Make sure to wish
them luck!
El Clubo De Español
submitted by Kari Hackbarth
Spanish Club Reporter
El 11 de diciembre, El Club Español tuvo una fiesta de Navidad en la casa de la Señora Cazenave. Todos trajeron un casero plato de estilo mexicano. Algunos de estos
incluyeron arroz español, fajitas de pollo, y paellas. Después de que todos comieron, escuchando con la música de Navidad mexicana, nuestros presidentes Carlos y Tomas
nos condujeron en un cambio divertido de regalo!
Leading Lincoln at RHS
by Emma Jones
Education Reporter
Leading Lincoln is a leadership program at Ruston High for juniors and seniors. Once a month, the members of Leading Lincoln commute to I.A. Lewis and a group of
students is designated to speak to a class about a certain aspect of leadership. Through this, a group of older peers can help instill virtues of leadership among the future generations of the Lincoln Parish community. The members will speak to the class about this topic, ask questions and give examples to help the students further understand what
it means to be a leader. Then, they engage the students in an activity that will help them apply this topic to everyday life.
So far the students have talked about the virtues of a leader, community service, and most recently, bullying. The members spoke to their classes about examples of bullying: verbal, physical, and over the Internet. They asked their students about why people are bullied and how we should react when we are bullied. The students were then
given examples of real life scenarios of bullying. Lastly, they discussed the difference between harmful bullying and playful teasing and the difference between the two. The
sixth grade students learned that day what integrity means as a leader and how bullying is very inappropriate for any leader as well.
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Ruston High School
Freshman Academy
submitted by Mrs. Pruden
Freshman Academy Coordinator
Ten Years Ago…
the Average RHS Freshman was 4 and in preschool.
the Average RHS Senior was 8 and in the third grade.
some of your teachers were graduating from high school.
Facebook and Twitter did not exist.
What can happen to you in the next ten years?
You COULD
graduate from high school AND
graduate from college AND
travel the world AND
buy your first car or home AND
start a business AND
get married!
Do you ever think about where you will be in 10 years? What plans do you have
in place now so that you can fulfill your vision for 2022? Is there someone that you
trust to talk to about your plans?
February 14, 2012
Page 5
Now, more than ever before, freshmen are expected to think about
their career options. To help you with your plan, Ruston High offers classes
in agriculture, business, family and consumer science, art, music, speech,
drama (and the list goes on) so that you can explore different careers to see
if they are a good fit for your personality. My advice is to take full advantage of what Ruston High School has to offer you in your career classes and
in the Career Counseling Center located in the library, where Mrs. Tatum
and Mrs. Bryan will help you investigate your options.
Do not take the easy road – stick to the challenging classes so that
every opportunity will be available to you when you graduate. Don’t get
sidetracked by the desire to have a 4.0 in place of a rigorous course of
study. Trust your teachers—they are the experts—and when the time comes
to apply to a college or university, aim for the Ivy League and frame your
acceptance letters! I want you to walk across the stage at graduation knowing, without a doubt, that you accomplished what you set out as a freshman
to do at Ruston High School.
My first year of teaching I asked my freshmen students to write a
prediction of where they would be in ten years; I kept these essays and after
10 years, I mailed them back to the students. This was an eye-opening experience for everyone involved. I challenge you today to write your own
prediction, use your remaining time at Ruston High to prepare you for your
future, and live your dreams in 2022!
New Tech @ Ruston
submitted by Cathi Cox Boniol
New Tech Director
The New Tech Student Leadership Team has been busy brainstorming ideas to enrich the second semester of the year. In conjunction with the upcoming Adopt-A-School
"GO GREEN!" emphasis as well as the NT@R Global and Community Engagement learning outcome, the group is developing a green project to be implemented in the community. Plans to "spruce up" an area in need are being coordinated with the City of Ruston along with the development of a new flower bed at an area senior adult facility.
The program is also recycling plastic bottles and aluminum cans as well as printer cartridges, a joint project with Hillcrest Elementary School. Leadership Team Officers
Shelton Wooley, Jonathan Craig, Michael Tolar, Emily Compton, Chandler Haddox, and Stephen Hall are joined in service by Caleb White, Anna Claire Wyatt, Gracie
Lewis, Jessica Woods, Josh Chrisman, Aranaye Clay, Ryan Dooley, Alicia Mitchell-Love, Jamarion Harris, Keon Johnson, and Haley Harris.
Along with service, the New Tech staff has put its culture in the spotlight and committed to recognizing students who embrace a culture of trust, respect, and responsibility
consistently. Freshman Trust Card "superstars" were treated to lunch at Pizza Inn, a donut party was hosted for freshmen and sophomores with Trust Cards in good standing,
and more than half of the New Tech student body celebrated their achievement with a trip to Louisiana Tech University for its production of "Robin Hood." Congratulations
to those students who are truly getting the job done every day in New Tech!
New Tech has also opened its doors to strong community partners who are contributing to the ongoing enrichment of its curriculum and project development. Bank of
Ruston has worked with all freshmen every other week with a specially designed Financial Responsibility program that has been implemented within the Animation and Visual Effects class. A special project will culminate the program at the end of the year. KXKZ radio, The Ruston Daily Leader, and KNOE Channel 8 TV were all on site to
work with the freshmen on their marketing campaign as part of the cross-curricular "FLOW" project and students will soon collaborate with R2 Productions and local filmmakers as they begin work on a film project.
Congrats To January and February Sharp Cats!
by Polly Michelle Gwan
Academics Reporter
Congratulations to the January and February freshman Sharp Cats! Sharp Cats are chosen by the freshman teachers each month by their academic and behavioral excellence. The January and February Sharp Cats are as followed: Ashley Henderson, Caroline Garrett, Peyton Spangler, Zac Davis, Latanzia Walden, Zenetra Holland, Kali
Stinson, and Josue Tehuatcle. Congrats to all these freshman students for their hard work!
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Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 6
A Place for Your Head?
by Moe Labbe
Clubs Reporter
Ms. Shaw’s sewing class recently made pillow cases. These pillow
cases are teaching the ladies in the class how to sew, measure, and cut
the fabric to make the pillows stylish for the Career Center couch. Be
sure to stop by the and check it out! Pillows are great, they are fluffy
and your head (which is a whopping 8 pounds!) rests so gently on
them and is comforted by it that you’re able to dream of rainbows,
unicorns, and maybe even school! Don’t take the making of cases for
said pillows for granted. Having naked pillows is totally unacceptable.
Be grateful that these girls are thinking about the pillows’ well being
and clothing them properly with handmade cases that add a personal
“homey” touch to the office. Mrs. Bryan and Mrs. Tatum appreciate
the gesture!
Pictured Right: Katherine Sanderson and Benicia King making pillow
cases in Ms. Shaw’s class.
Resumé
submitted by Emily Greer
Resumé Staff Member
Guys it’s time to start ordering the 2011-2012 Resume Yearbook. We will be having a Valentine’s Day Bake Sale on Tuesday the 14th and Wednesday the 15th.The price
is $50 as of December 1st! It would make a great gift for a graduating senior! See Mrs. Garrison in room 315 for more information. Seniors it’s time to start thinking about
your senior ads and pictures! Spring will be here soon enough. Senior Ad forms are available in Mrs. Stickler’s room. For more information please don’t hesitate to see Mrs.
Strickler in room 208 or a yearbook staff representative.
Senior Cap and Gown Pictures
by Lloyd R. Bruner
Chatterbox Adviser/ FBLA Adviser
It’s that time of year again Seniors – picture time! I am sure that each of you has already made your appointments to take all the pictures that you need for Chatterbox, the
Ruston Daily Leader, and for Resume’. If not – you need to hurry. Deadlines are drawing near and every year, someone misses out.
Chatterbox requires that all senior cap and gown pictures be sent electronically to [email protected]. Remind your photographer, especially if you use independent photographers. These are the pictures that will be used in the Senior Edition of Chatterbox that is published in June 2012 as well as the Ruston Daily Leader, usually
published in late April or May 2012. To be clear, here are the requirements for cap and gown pictures:
Cap and gown pictures must be in RHS colors.
Cap and gown pictures must be CAP and gown worn. Cap is on your head.
Guys – you must wear ties.
No excessive jewelry – no inappropriate jewelry – no inappropriate gestures.
Cap and gown pictures must be sent electronically by March 15, 2012.
Professional photographers know the requirements. If you use anyone who does not know them, have them contact one. You may take any pictures you want as it is your
right; however, understand that only photographs done to our traditions and standards will be published. We do this as a courtesy – it is not a right. So seniors, let’s make this
year great and send in quality pictures that show your Bearcat Pride. We want every senior covered this year!
Only send one official cap and gown picture to Chatterbox. Photographers already know this and they send in all their pictures at once. If you have questions, ask them. As
for any other pictures required for Resume’, check with them and ensure that you follow their instructions and meet their deadlines. Please do not send cap and gown pictures
to Resume’ and do not send outdoor pictures to Chatterbox.
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Chatterbox
utside Our Box?
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 7
Winter or Spring?
by Elena Till
Assistant News Editor
Every year on the second of February, groundhogs across the nation rise up and peer out of their habitations to take a look at the wide world. This day is very popular in
America; many people have celebrations and a movie called “Groundhog Day” was even made about it, starring Bill Murray. The tradition says that if the groundhog sees his
shadow there will be six more weeks of winter as he believes it to be an omen of bad weather. However, if he does not see his shadow then spring is on the way and winter is
coming to an end. This year there seems to be some controversy among groundhogs across the country as some saw their shadow and others did not. Probably the most
highly regarded groundhog is that of Pennsylvania, a state that widely recognizes and even celebrates this day: a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil (as in Philadelphia).
On Thursday, February 2, 2012, he saw his shadow yet other groundhogs across the states did not. The weather has been a bit out of the ordinary this year so it is no surprise
that the groundhogs are confused and may not be able to “accurately” predict the weather of the upcoming months. So will winter continue on or will spring begin?
A Month to Remember
by Moe Labbe
Clubs Reporter
Black History Month is celebrated every year during the month of February. It’s meant to celebrate achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of black Americans in American history. Since 1976, every U.S. President has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries
around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also take this month to celebrating black history in their countries.
Here at Ruston High we would also like to recognize such a glorious month. African Americans have had hardships and have the fortitude to overcome it all. Great people
and inventors have come from the black community. We have our commander and chief Barrack Obama, actors like Samuel L. Jackson and Morgan Freeman, and fantastic
musicians like Snoop Dogg and Lil Wayne. We can even go further back into the Civil Rights Movement and talk about Thurgood Marshal, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther
King Jr., who were all very influential people. I think the African American youth today should stop and appreciate this month because you can’t know where you’re going
until you know where you’ve been.
Military Appreciation for Chatterbox
by Sarah Kay Blaylock
Arts Reporter
RHS Chatterbox Staff,
Thank you so much for finding a place for our soldiers in the Chatterbox. I would also like to thank you for sending me a copy of the Chatterbox. I look forward each
month to receiving the Chatterbox so I can read about the great things that Ruston High School is doing!
SGT Taylor
Left: Coach Taylor and another
Military personnel supporting the
Louisiana Tech Dawgs even from
over seas!
Right: Coach Taylor standing in
knee deep snow!
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ditorials/Opinions
Ruston High School
Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 8
Moe Labbe: Dive into my mind?
Clubs Reporter
Hello, hello. My name is Moriah but you should call me Moe. As you’ve probably already noticed, I’m extremely good looking… I play soccer
because I’m cool. My voice is like a mixture of Jesus and Fergie, even the Beibs is jelly. You should all get to know me. But here’s a tad more
about myself.
How about my favorites? The colors of my choice are orange, grey, blue, and white. The people of my choice are my buds on the speech and
debate team, soccer team, and just awesome people I’d invite to a party someday. My favorite music is acoustic, alternative, pop, rock, and DUBSTEP. My favorite bands or DJs or singers are Coldplay, Mumford and Sons, Kid Cudi, Skrillex, One Republic, Adele, Iron and Wine, and Jack
Johnson. I love superhero movies and my favorite superhero is Captain America. I want to be him. I like his costume.
In conclusion, I’m an amazing human being and I like it here on earth. One day I’d like to make cool movies and create street music with a few
friends. I’d love to meet new people so stop me in the hall and say hey and stuff. I’d probably be really happy. I really want some tacos… which are my favorite food in the
world. We should chill, it’d be chill. Um, I’m at a loss now. So have a groovy day and remember, everything gets better in the end, if it doesn’t then it’s not the end. Take it
easy, life goes on dudes.
Nathan Bennett
Academics Reporter
They told me I could be anything, so I became controversy. My name is Nathan Bennett, though friends call me Karl. By that logic, I have no
friends. Right now I’m a Junior at Ruston High, though that might change if you’re reading this in the future.
I sprung fully formed from my mother on the 25 th of February 1995. In only a month, I grew to the height of an adult and taught myself basic
skills using only a paperclip and a piece of string. I since evolved into a being of pure light energy and have made it my purpose to enlighten the
lesser creatures of earth.
My interests include humans, capitalism, and procrastination. The rest are probably beyond your level of understanding. I am the Grand Master
of the Illuminati and serve of Secretary of the Interior for the New World Order commission. All that aside, I put my pants on two legs at a time
just like everybody else.
I can safely say that Ruston High School is the best high school I have ever attended, just as I can say that my parents are the best parents I have
ever had. I am a very sane and approachable person, but if you ask me for an autograph I will ignore you rather than hurt your feelings. Sorry.
Erin Maxson
Clubs Reporter
Hi, my name is Erin Maxson and I recently joined the Chatterbox Staff. I moved here in October of 2011 from Lubbock, Texas, which is about
9-10 hours from here. I had lived there all my life, so it’s been a big change. I’m a junior, and I’m ecstatic about graduating from Ruston High
next year. My mom works at First National Bank as an accountant. My twin sister, Ratch, goes to school here, too. I have two dogs, Luna and
Oliver, a cat named Sophie, and a hedgehog named Mumford. I love to read and write about anything and everything. My favorite TV show is the
Office, which I personally think reflects my own sense of humor. I have a few obsessions, mainly Netflix, NBA (OKC Thunder), and finding new
music. My heroes in life are my grandpa, my mom, and Steve Carell.
In the future, I’m thinking about going to the University of Hawaii or somewhere near an ocean so I can study marine sciences after high
school. I aspire to be a marine biologist, and hopefully move to Australia or Africa later on to study sharks. My ultimate goal is to be on Shark
Week on the Discovery Channel. If that doesn’t work out, I want to be comedian and have my own show about my hilarious jokes.
As for my recent journalism career, I’m extremely excited to be a part of the Chatterbox staff for this semester. I’m very passionate about writing and current events, so
this seemed like the perfect fit for me. I hope that articles make you think a little bit or even make you laugh because then I’ll know I’m doing something right! J
Preston Ponder
Social Reporter
Hola! As most of you know my name is Preston Ponder, and I’m a new member of Chatterbox as of this semester! I will be taking over
the role of ‘social reporter,’ which involves major events and issues going on at Ruston High School. I have many interests outside of school including running, painting, and keeping up with politics. I am also a cashier at Super1 Foods, so whenever you come in be sure to look for me!
Being only a sophomore here at RHS I hope being in Chatterbox will expand my horizons as far as my interests at school go. I wish to
learn more about our clubs, organizations, and various teams here at Ruston High, and in the process help you do the same! I’m always open for
feedback on anything that I write, so don’t hesitate to talk to me about anything. That goes for issues or topics that you may wish to know more
about as well! I’m always willing to explore for a greater understanding. With that being said, adios Ruston High! I hope you will all be looking
for my future articles!
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ditorials/Opinions
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Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 9
College Tuition and the President
by Erin Maxson
Clubs Reporter
Recently, President Obama made a speech called the State of Union Address, which is a speech that is meant to report the condition
of the nation and the things the President wishes to accomplish in office still. In this speech, Obama stated some very good things he
plans to do to help teachers, students and their futures. Many schools today do not have enough money to pay for the right materials in
order to make progress in education. Some teachers even take money out of their own pockets in order to make a difference in class,
even when their own salaries are modest. Obama plans to reward the best schools and teachers, as well as give them the resources they
need in order to accomplish the needs of students and their education.
Obama has pressed state governments to not allow kids to drop out until they graduate or turn 18 years old instead of 17 years old
because they have a better chance of achieving their goals if they don’t drop out. More students would receive diplomas if states would
say that kids could not walk away from their education.
Even after graduation, Obama is looking out for the students of America. He said that many college Presidents have tried to cut
down costs of college tuitions by using better technology and redesigning classes so students can finish their classes quicker. The president said that the colleges that won’t do anything about continually rising tuition rates would not receive funding provided by taxpayers
because “it is an economic imperative that every family in America should be able to afford.”
In other words, the president is looking out for you and me. He’s trying to lower costs of tuition so everyone can afford higher education. He’s also trying to give more
resources and money to high schools and other schools so that they can achieve the goals they have set for their students. All of these things are just a step forward for every
student in America.
Political Activism or Political Capitalism?
SOPA and the NDAA
by Nathan Bennett
Academic Reporter
As many of you may know, the Stop Online Piracy Act, better known as SOPA and its sister bill PIPA, or the Protect Intellectual
Property Act is a controversial bill that, as of the writing of this article, has been shelved by Congress. But why is this bill so special that
so much action has been taken against it? For the answer to that question, we’ll need to look at the history of the bill itself.
The bill was first proposed on October 21st 2011 by Lamar Smith, a representative from a district in Texas. It was intended to protect
intellectual property on the internet by allowing law enforcement greater ability to take down sites that posted copyrighted or pirated
material. It would effectively stop the illegal downloading of content, which is very widespread on the internet right now. However, despite its many legal perks, it also has a downside. Sites thought to have infringing material could potentially be taken down without trial,
and forcing internet providers such as Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Google Chrome to deny access to such sites. Sites that could be
considered potential offenders include Facebook, Tumblr, Reddit, Google, Firefox and YouTube. Many anti-SOPA groups have criticized this as censorship and as stifling innovation over the internet.
Yet the question remains. Why has a normally politically apathetic nation become so galvanized over two pieces of legislation? The
obvious answer would be that people feel their freedoms are threatened. They sense that their fundamental rights under the First Amendment are in jeopardy and feel obligated to take action. So this is all about rights, right? Wrong.
Let’s take a look at another bill which has already passed through Congress and Obama has signed into legislation in December of last year, the NDAA, or National Defense Authorization Act. These Acts are passed yearly in order to appropriate funding for the United States’ national defense, but one provision regarding counter-terrorism
in this particular bill has caught the eye of the American Civil Liberties Union. Title X, Subtitle D of the Act states that any person who has substantially supported al-Qaeda,
the Taliban, and other associated terrorist organizations may be infinitely detained by the United States armed forces. An amendment to the bill clarifying that U.S. citizens
could not be detained without a trial was rejected. Valid concerns have been raised that say that these provisions infringe upon the rights of citizens by saying that they can be
detained without a trial for having a certain political affiliation.
So why has SOPA generated such a widespread opposition while the NDAA is more or less overlooked by the average American? The answer lies with corporations.
Both SOPA and PIPA were backed heavily by lobbyists from the entertainment industry, as protecting intellectual property is critical to them generating the maximum
amount of profits. Lobbyists from Internet companies, however, had a different motive. If the Internet was threatened, so was their profit margin, making it in their best interest to promote Anti-SOPA sentiment. On January 18th, several companies did just that, blacking out their sites to promote awareness of the bill. The next day, several Congressmen that had been pro-SOPA quickly withdrew their backing, substantially reducing its likeliness to be passed. Protestors of the NDAA, however, didn’t have such
luxuries as this. Civil rights groups had no access to these tools to take political action. No major companies opposed the NDAA, because it didn’t have the same monetary
value.
Money has an undeniable effect on politics. Though this may come off as cynical, I view it more as realistic. If we know the way our system works, we are better
equipped to work to promote positive change and reform. While I am grateful that self interest has motivated companies to protest SOPA, I find it unfortunate that the violations in the NDAA are at the same time overlooked. I feel that if we provide some economic incentive for maintaining civil rights, we will be able to ensure our continuing
freedoms as American citizens.
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February 14, 2012
Page 10
Aliens
Friend or Foe?
by Moe Labbe
Clubs Reporter
As long as people have had imaginations, they have questioned if we are truly alone in the universe. Movies like War of the Worlds,
Men in Black, Alien, and Independence Day all entertain the fact that aliens are among us. We as human beings have the natural curiosity
to question such existence of other life forms. Have you ever just stopped to think that we really aren’t alone after all?
Perhaps we aren’t. European scientist have discovered planet Gliese 581c, an Earth-like planet in space found circling around a star
near the constellation Libra. This new planet orbits a comfortable distance from its sun; like Earth, it maintains a surface temperature
somewhere between 32 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Most importantly, like Earth, it could easily harbor surface water. In the biological
arithmetic we know best, warmth and water often supports life. What if on this “mock earth” there are little cave men walking around?
Or, maybe even a species more advanced than human race that is just waiting for the right moment to beam here and attack us.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t really think all aliens are bad. We could be graced with the presence of some ET like aliens. They could
come here seeing us in distress and attempt to aid us with our global warming problem. They could even give us a new form of energy
that could save our tails from destruction. Or, they could come here, in peace, looking for refuge and offer advanced technologies in exchange. Who knows? These are just my theories though. If they are out there, are they friends… or foes?
Is There Such A Thing As A Shopaholic?
by Ambria Holmes
Sports Reporter
I have heard people refer to those who shop a lot as a shopaholic. To me, there is no such thing because you can never shop too much!
Yes, it’s true I love to shop and I do so almost every weekend. Some people go shopping to relieve their stress by spending money or to
just have fun. I am one of those people. Not only are you relieving stress but you will have brand new clothes, and you can never have too
many clothes.
To some people the mall is their place of serenity, and what’s wrong with that? You might disagree with me and feel there is such a
thing as a shopaholic. However, I still don’t see the harm in getting rid of your problems by shopping, as long as you can afford to spend a
lot of money. I will honestly say I shop to ease my mind. I spend a lot of money but I’m never disappointed. Would I be considered a shopaholic? No! There’s no such thing!
Great Ways to Ask Out Your Prom Date!
by Polly Michelle Gwan
Academics Reporter
Prom is just around the corner and just like those gorgeous dresses and snazzy suits, the number of prom dates are going down by the
day. Though this is true many guys are still reluctant to ask a girl out to the dance for various reasons. Some guys are just a nervous wreck
and others just are afraid to hear that dreaded word: NO. For people who are having a hard time asking that special person to the biggest
dance of the year, here are some great ways for you to ask your prospective date out:
For guys who want to be creative, a great way to ask your date out is to send them on a "scavenger" hunt around the city. Find special
points and leave cunning clues around the town, then send your special person off on a "wild goose hunt." In the end, send your person to a
last point and surprise them. They may be confused, shocked or frustrated, but I’m sure they will have a hard time saying no after all that
effort you put into it. For the ones that think this is too over the top or too much work an easier, more simple, yet still creative way to ask
out your person is a poem. It may sound a little cheesy, but a cute little poem can be the key to getting the date you want. There are many
other ways to ask a girl out to prom. Either way, remember this, be confident and if she says no don’t fret because there are many other fish
in the sea!
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Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 11
Movie Theatre Number Two?
All in favor say “I”!
by Sarah Kay Blaylock
Arts Reporter
If anyone has yet to hear the grand news, here it is: Ruston is getting a second movie theatre this year! That’s right; the completion of a
new movie theatre has been promised to residents and everyone in Ruston! However, there is a downfall- the Ruston citizens who fail to
realize why movie theatre two is such an honorable project.
I am sure that most of you are thinking that a second theatre sounds pointless due to the fact that we already have one. However, if you
look at all of the bigger cities in Louisiana such as Monroe, Shreveport, Baton Rouge, etc; they all contain at least three movie theatres if
not more. Another concern that has been brought to my attention is whether or not Ruston will be able to afford and fund this new movie
theatre. I desire to mention that if the folks in charge decided to build one, then surely and hopefully they considered and thought through it
before placing the fresh news in the Ruston Daily Leader!
I believe that as citizens of Ruston, we should be proud that even the thought of a second movie theatre has been brought up. I’m not
saying that our town is unworthy of one, but our population is like zero. With that being said, I do feel as though it is pretty fabulous. Imagine all of the new jobs that will soon be available! Think of all of the people it could bring in. With more people, come more things such as restaurants, parks, libraries, and
so on. I am stoked!
Why Pay More?
by Jaisle Bailey
News Editor
This past month, it was announced that a second theatre will be coming to Ruston. The United Entertainment Corporation based out of St.
Cloud, Minnesota is buying 7.8 acres of land to build a new movie theatre containing nine screens. The theatre will be able to show 3D movies unlike Celebrity Theatres. The company is hoping that the theatre will be open by Christmas of this year.
While it will be nice to be able to view 3D movies, I do not see why they couldn’t have just made it to where Celebrity Theatres could
show 3D movies. It would have been so much cheaper to just convert the original theatre.
The new theatre will provide more job opportunities, but it will take away for the amount of money Celebrity Theatres makes. The current
theatre has more than enough space and it is still fairly new. In order for one of the theatres to succeed, one is going to have to fail. I think
that they should just build something more useful like a laser tag center.
The Chatterbox reminds all students that everyone has a right to an opinion on issues. If you have an opinion and wish to write an article, the
Chatterbox reminds you that all submissions are subject to staff, editor, and administrative review to ensure that the article provides information or
promotes school pride, and does so without materially disrupting work, does not cause substantial disorder, or does not invade the rights of these.
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February 14, 2012
Page 12
Ruston High in the 1960s
by Elena Till
Assistant News Editor
Ruston High School has always been a school full of traditions and spirit. In the 1960s, there were many things that were the same as
they are today. For example, Neville was the school rival and was despised by the Bearcats as they are today. Another similarity was the
excitement of football games. Today football season is a big part of RHS and a great time for the school to show its spirit. The band plays,
cheerleaders cheer, fans scream, and the football team does the best they can to make the school proud. Students from then are similar to
students now, too. They tripped up the stairs, had problems with skirt length, could not get to class on time, etc. Pep-rallies were always a
big school tradition like they are today.
Although modern day Ruston High and the past RHS were very alike, there were also some major differences. First, believe it or not,
there were no computers! If you had to research something you looked it up in a book. The business classes would teach you how to type
on a typewriter (either electric or manual) and they taught you shorthand, a form of writing using symbols to represent phrases or words
instead of writing out the whole word. Secretaries and other business people often used this for taking notes. Also, since there were no
cell phones, the school provided pay phones. At lunch or at any break in the day you could go down to the phone area and make a call.
Another difference is that students were not required to wear uniforms, but they did have certain guidelines. For a while, girls were not allowed to wear pants and they had to
wear a dress. When they finally changed the rules so that girls could wear pants, they made it so that it had to be a part of a matching pantsuit with panty hose underneath.
Despite not being allowed to wear shorts, girls could wear a mini-skirt as long as it was 4-6 inches above the knee. So as you can see, Ruston High School has evolved over
time, but it has retained its school spirit.
Irony vs. Coincidence
by Emma Jones
Education Reporter
We’ve all been in that situation: in response to an event or story, someone would respond, “Oh, how ironic!” and then that one person whom everyone hates kills the mood and interjects, “Actually, that’s not ironic at all. It’s coincidental.” I know I’ve been in this
situation because I’m always that person who ruins a great story with my obnoxiousness. I’m sorry, but there is a distinct difference
between irony and coincidence, and when people can’t take two seconds to understand the difference, it irks me to no end.
I don’t know if you realize it or not, but there will always be people like me. There will always be people like me. There will always,
I repeat, always, be that one obnoxious person who will correct you on what most of you would call “no big deal,” such as calling
something ironic when it’s actually not ironic at all. So in order to keep that unpleasant individual from making a big deal about what
irony is, why not just learn the difference and keep their comments from surfacing in the first place? That makes complete sense to me.
Coincidence is when two similar events occur in the same kind of setting. It’s when you see someone you know in a public place, or
when the song that’s stuck in your head comes on the radio. However, in any coincidental situation, the outcome stays the same. This is
where the key difference is between irony and coincidence.
Irony is when what you expected to happen doesn’t happen, and vice versa. It’s when you win a raffle but the prize was a gift card to
a restaurant that you hate, or, according to Roald Dahl, when you beat your husband with a frozen lamb’s foot and then feed the lamb to the detective working on the murder
case. It’s when Romeo believes Juliet to be dead when really the audience knows she’s asleep. While Alanis Morsiette is right about rain on your wedding day being ironic, a
traffic jam when you’re already late or a no smoking sign on your cigarette break doesn’t exactly qualify. In these cases at least, there’s no context, so instead of being a reversal of expectations, it’s just an unfortunate event. Now, if the local traffic reporter had said, “There will be little traffic in this area today,” it would be ironic, but until the
intended or assumed outcome of the situation is known, it cannot be considered ironic.
The unfortunate thing about irony is that the interpretation of its presence varies by person. For instance, some people think that sarcasm is a form of verbal irony, while
others disagree. My advice is that unless it is blatantly obvious that a situation can be labeled as ironic, refrain from even bringing up the subject. While I won’t be the kind
of person who will get offended if your average Joe doesn’t completely understand irony (unless he refers to it as coincidence), there are people in this world who almost
take it personally when someone misunderstands a situation and considers to it be ironic when it’s sort of debatable whether it is. All in all, don’t make yourself look dumb in
front of that one person who always makes you feel dumb, because believe me, when given the chance, they will tear your apart for thinking irony and coincidence are the
same.
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February 14, 2012
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The Future and You: What to Expect in Your Lifetime
by Nathan Bennett
Academic Reporter
Flying cars, personal jetpacks, robot servants, hoverboards, and time machines: these all predictions that society has made about the
future that have yet to come to fruition. On the same note, however, there have also been several predictions made in the past that have
come true, among these being tanks, the atom bomb, and automatic doors. People have been fantasizing about life in the future since
there was ever a future to imagine, and with the art of prediction and extrapolation reaching new heights, the future has never looked
brighter. Here are some of the things you have to look forward to.
The first great innovation that’s coming up in the near future is the driverless car. As hard as it is to believe, these incredible vehicles
technically exist already. A few years ago, Google sent out a fleet of these driverless cars across the country along with a human ‘copilot’ just to be on the safe side. On average, human intervention was required only once every 10,000 miles of driving. While this is a
great feat, the desired mark is at 1,000,000 miles without human assistance. The first driverless car model is expected to be sold by the
year 2018.
The next great technology is holography. Some futurists believe that there will someday be home entertainment systems that simply
project holographic recreations of scenes without even needing a screen. Researchers at Microsoft labs as well as others have been working hard to make the reality possible.
Using motion sensors, they have been able to track eye movement and project holographic images into a viewer’s eye. It’s possible that we might live to a day where high
definition television becomes obsolete; much like black and white seems to us today.
Robots have been written about in science fiction novels for ages. However, with new technology some of the dreams of the past might soon come true. In Japan, robotics
has reached a new level. Companies have already designed and constructed several models that are able to recognize humans in a mall setting, determine if they are in a
hurry or not, and approach or keep distance accordingly. Once they have engaged a prospective user, they are able to assist them by answering questions and pointing them in
the right direction. Though not perfect by any means, robots are closer than ever to becoming all that we want them to be, and maybe even more.
Perhaps the most exciting and equally the most frightening future technology is a ‘cure’ for aging. Scientists estimate that they will be able to determine a method of artificially stopping or slowing the aging process within the next 25-30 years. Immortality may be no longer inconceivable. If such a technology were to be created and made
public, all of us would not only live to see the creation of all the technologies listed here, but possibly all future technologies ever to be invented until the end of time. While
the ethical, philosophical and societal concerns over eternal life will undoubtedly be debated about for ages to come, such an invention is quite definitely a great stage in human development.
Only time will tell how many (if any) of these predictions will come to be true. Though there’s a lot of evidence out there supporting these ideas, I have no idea what the
future holds. What I do know for certain is that the future is what we make of it, for good or for ill. It’s up to us to make a better tomorrow, tomorrow.
To See the Change, You Have to Be the Change
by Erin Maxson
Clubs Reporter
In today's society, everyone is talking about how disappointed they are of our generation. Kids from their own generations are saying that they want to be part of another generation because people today aren't exactly the brightest and politest. But I think that people
don't really see what they're saying is wrong because when they say that our generation is messed up and not smart they're saying that
they, themselves are ignorant people. If you want to see a change in your life and other lives, you should be the person that changes
what needs to be changed and not sit around and wait for someone else to step up and do it.
For everyone that has said our generation is stupid and neglects what needs to be done, you need to take a look at yourself first and
see if there is something you could do to make others see that what they do and say is wrong. Making a change isn't for everyone else,
it's for YOU. Don't think for a second that if other people aren't making the change that you shouldn't either. Don't think that it's not
your responsibility to step up and do what you want to see done differently. Do what you dream of seeing everyone else doing and everyone will fall in behind you.
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February 14, 2012
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Page 14
Little Feet Covers
by Moe Labbe
Clubs Reporter
Shoes have been around for…. a while. They have made a healthy bond with our feet. Shoes and feet go together like peanut butter and
jelly, like Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin, like superheroes and tights, like Snooky and stupidity. Have you ever considered what
our lives and our feet would be like if we wore shoes on our hands? I mean, what if somewhere back in history our ancestors went loopy
putting what was meant to be a shoe on their hands and said “La vie”. How would our lives be affected? Would our feet go all unprotected
and get all hard and mutate over time? Would they be more flat and coarse at the bottoms and be able to withstand anything, like fire? Who
knows? But I know that I’m thankful for our little feet covers.
Stereo Types in Ruston
How much does it matter to you?
by Sarah Kay Blaylock
Arts Reporter
Have you ever felt intimidated when it came to talking to the person sitting next to you? There are various reasons as to why one may
feel discouraged about conversing with a stranger or even a person that may be familiar to them. It may be because you feel like the parallel
individual is either better than you or you have convinced yourself that you are better than them. Though I am not a current believer in
equality, it pains me a smidge, and only a smidge, to see cliques of people who are constantly and purposely trying to mirror one another, or
even worse: resenting others due to their lack of whatever may seem important to the guilty party. As for my first example mentioned, I
desire to recognize the very truthful truth. If you fail to put yourself out there, stepping out of your comfort zone, how will you ever know if
the girl that prefers the Bible or The Diary of Anne Frank, could not be a fitted friend for you?
We all come from an assortment of unique lifestyles; however too many people are unsuccessful in realizing the legitimate beauty and
exclusiveness in their irreplaceable individuality. As shameful and discouraging as this may be, it is the candid and truthful take on today’s
teenage society. Too many of us depend on our friends in terms of style, grades, in and out of school activity, and other influencing aspects.
A valuable thought to consider is: stereo types are quite common and occur every day of our lives. However, the fact of how much notice
and care we take to them depends on each one of us. When we allow ourselves to be placed or classified as something; that is when our conscience experiences happiness or
grief. Both vivacity and anguish seem to be the most common reactions to one’s society placement, especially in high school.
I feel at ease. To me, it does not matter where one is placed. It matters most where people place themselves. Once all of us genuinely understand and accept our own natural personalities, there will not be a need to fit in anywhere. Therefore, it will no longer exist, even in the back of our minds. How much does it matter to you?
Thanks a Lot Business Department!
by Elizabeth Smith
Business Manager
I would like to personally thank all the teachers in the Ruston High School Business Department for all they have done for me this year.
Thank you so much Mrs. Tinsley, Mrs. Garrison, Mrs. Lewis, Ms. Peters, and Mr. Bruner and Mrs. Christy! Ya’ll have made my senior year
so much less stressful with my given situation. I am so thankful for all the help ya’ll have given me this year., I couldn’t have asked for any
better people to be so kind to me and help me every way that ya’ll possibly have. I would like to extend a very special Thank You to Mr.
Bruner for always being there for me and having my back when I have needed him. Thank you so much for being so supportive and believing in me this year when I need it the most, and thank you for continuing to push me and helping me to believe that there is nothing that I
can’t do. I am so thankful that you have never let me down and have kept me going. I hope that one day I will be able to truly thank you and
all the teachers in the business department at RHS for all ya’ll have done for me this year.
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Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 15
FFA Takes 2 District and 2 Area Titles
submitted by Mark Milstead
FFA advisor
Congratulations to the FFA students that competed at the District II Leadership CDEs on Friday, January 6th in Downsville, LA. District
II Champion in Creed Speaking was Barrett Moore and District II Runner-up was Hannah Rhodes. These two students were the top two out
of the eleven students that competed district-wide in Creed Speaking. The Parliamentary Procedure Team was also named the District II
Champion. Team members are Jonathan Craig, Brandon Myers, Seth Nichols, Ryan Dooley, Mercedes Fife, Dustin Thomas, and Keirstyn
Sonnier. Jonathan Craig and Brandon Myers also received 3rd and 4th places respectively in the Extemporaneous Speaking competitions. All
of these students qualified for and competed at the Area I competitions. The top 2 at Area from each event will move on to state competitions.
Congratulations also go to the FFA members that competed at the Area I Leadership Career Development Events on Thursday night, January 12 at Louisiana Tech University. The Parliamentary Procedure Team was named the Area I Champions. Team members are Jonathan
Craig, Brandon Myers, Seth Nichols, Ryan Dooley, Mercedes Fife, Dustin Thomas, and Keirstyn Sonnier. The team competed on Tuesday,
January 17th for the state competition and was ranked 5th place in the state.
Jonathan Craig was also named the Area I Champion in Extemporaneous Speaking while Brandon Myers earned 4th place. Hannah Rhodes earned 2nd place in Creed
speaking and Barrett Moore received 3rd place. The top 2 from each event at Area competition move on to state competition in June at the Louisiana State FFA Convention
in Alexandria, LA. Congratulations to all these students for representing Ruston High School with excellence and good luck to all students that will compete at state in June!
Congratulations also go out to the Freshman FFA students that competed at the District-wide Freshman Day Leadership events on January 6th in Downsville, LA. First
place in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies event was the team of Marqueax Smith, Cassidy Oglesby, Riley Thompson, Brooke Warren, Taylor Hammons, Hunter Conner, and Conner Scott. The Parliamentary Procedure team received 2nd place with team members Sara Tyler, Chrissy Bryant, Zariah Sims, Forrest Small, Shadaja Brown,
and Tucker Smith. Congratulations to the Freshman FFA members who went above and beyond to make us proud in our Freshman Day Leadership events. You are our
future FFA leaders!
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Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 16
Ruston Team FBLA Captures 2nd Place at
Regional Competition: Bicentennial Project
by Elizabeth Smith
FBLA President
On Tuesday, January 31, 2012, the Ruston High School Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) traveled to Monroe to compete in the Louisiana Bicentennial Project. This project was a statewide competition to promote Louisiana and was open to all high schools in Louisiana, with regional competitions throughout the state. Teams
were required to submit a business plan that would include promoting their area’s events or statewide events, including publicizing the event and bringing in tourists. The 1 st
place team from each region would then qualify for state.
At the state FBLA planning session, state officers decided to make this a mandatory event for the state project as it fell under all three pillars, Service, Education, and Progress. As such, Ruston FBLA entered a team into the competition to promote Lincoln Parish Park. Ruston Team FBLA consisted of President Elizabeth Smith, District II
Vice President Jared Spiller, and State Parliamentary John Herren.
Ruston Team FBLA presented their plan and placed second in our region. The team was awarded with a $1000 scholarship. As a reward for their hard work and great job
on placing second in our region, the team was treated to Chick-Fil-A for lunch. Next year they plan to compete in it again and place first and win another $1000 scholarship
and be eligible to compete at the state competition and win a $14,000 scholarship.
Ruston Team FBLA members pose at Atrium fountain after competing:
District II Vice President Jared Spiller, RHS FBLA President Elizabeth
Smith, and State Parliamentarian John Herren.
Ruston Team FBLA members receive their briefing and 2nd place results at the regional competition of the Louisiana Bicentennial Project.
C
Chatterbox
lubs/Organizations
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 17
Keywanettes Looking For New Members!
by Polly Michelle Gwan
Academics Reporter
As the year quickly dwindles down, many clubs and organizations are beginning to look for hopeful new members that will help create a successful year. Keywanettes is
one of those organizations looking for girls who are dedicated to serving not only their school, but their local community as well, such as decoration g for homecoming and
Relay for Life To become a member of Keywanettes you must have a 3.25 GPA and must have not been suspended or received a referral from this year. Keywanettes is a fun
way to get involved and make friends, so stop by Mrs. Courtney Martin’s room and pick up an application!
We Want to Know What You’re up to!
by Whitney Durrett
Editor in Chief
Every month each RHS club has the opportunity to have something about their club published in the Chatterbox. Clubs Reporters for Chatterbox are Moriah Labbe and
Erin Maxson. If you would like for something to be published contact one of them or email an article or information we can compose into an article to [email protected]. Please send us information about your club and what you are doing!
Come visit Ruston’s Newest Full-Service
Convenience Store!
Home of Arby’s
211 Farmerville Highway, Ruston, Louisiana
Stop by for
101 South Service Road,
Exit 85 and Highway 167
Ruston, Louisiana
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Chatterbox
he Arts
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 18
RHS Band
by Polly Michelle Gwan
Academics Reporter
On January 19 – 21, 2012, selected Ruston High School band members traveled to the campus of Louisiana Tech University to
participate in the 2012 All - District Honor Band conference. These musicians had a blast performing challenging music, meeting up
with other musicians from various district schools, and exploring the Tech campus. At the concert three Ruston High band members
received awards for their dedication to music and making the LMEA All-State Symphonic & Orchestra Honor Bands. These three
musicians were junior, John Herren; senior, Kori Teague; and senior, Polly Michelle Gwan.
As of now, the Ruston High School Symphonic and Concert bands are working hard and preparing for the District and State Festival competitions in hopes of receiving the coveted superior ratings and sweepstakes trophy.
Band Members, Kori Teague, Polly
Gwan, and John Herren accepting
their awards.
New Plans in the New Year for the Bearcat Choir
by Emma Jones
Education Reporter
On Thursday, January 26, the Bearcat Choir gave a concert performance featuring guest conductor Charles Bruffy and composer Blake Henson. The Treble choir performed three pieces, one of which was the world premier of a piece written by Henson specifically for the Treble Choir. The Concert Choir also performed three pieces, one
of which was written by Henson. As for February, the Concert Choir and Treble Choir will be going to view the LMEA District Large Ensemble Festival, held on February
23rd at Louisiana Tech.
In the meantime, the choir is preparing for Bearcats on Broadway. The show will be held Friday, March 30 th at 7pm and Saturday, March 31st at 2pm and 7pm at the Dixie
Theatre. This year’s performance will feature numbers from the shows: Hair, South Pacific, Wicked, Little Women, Jekyll and Hyde, Saigon, Spamalot, and more!
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Chatterbox
eacher Spotlights
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 19
Coach Nick Brown teaches physical science, helps teach physics with Mr. Elliott, and serves as the
FCA advisor. He is married to Mrs. Mandy Brown, a 1995 RHS graduate, and has two children,
Baylee Auburn and RJ. They are also expecting their third child this march. He would’ve liked to
name him Nick, but it was voted down. He says that he is blessed to work around great friends, great
students, and an administration that appreciates a good cup of coffee. His advice to students: 1. Lift
weights with people weaker than you, 2. Run with people slower than you, 3. Take pictures with people shorter than you, but study with people smarter than you. He hosts a radio show on ESPN 97.7
(Like it on Facebook: Nick Brown Show). In his picture with him is his half brother (half, not step)
Coach Bush.
Ms. Jill Cheek teaches Freshmen Academy biology. Her brother-in-law is none other than the wonderful Mr. Falting, whose children, Lilla and Jude, her niece and nephew, are the most beautiful in the
world. Most of her high school memories revolve around playing basketball and running track. Her
least favorite subject then was science, especially biology, but coincidentally it is the subject she now
teaches and loves. She always tries to encourage her students not to be afraid to make mistakes because knowing what something is not increases knowledge and to be willing to learn from them and
move on.
The one, the only Mr. Randall Elliot teaches chemistry and physics and is the assistant coach to
Coach Brown for Table Tennis (Ping Pong). He lives with his beautiful bride Christi and has two wonderful kids, Abby and Jack. He also considers Jake Haddox (right) as his son.
Mrs. April Winstead teaches Freshman Academy biology I, Pre-AP Biology I, Biology II AP, and
sponsors Freshman Cheer. She only has one husband. She has two daughters, Chloe Mae, ten, and
Morgan, fifteen, and RHS freshman. She is a gourmet chef and she cooks three meals a day for her
loving family and all of their boyfriends and friends.
Coach Bob Garrett teaches health and is the assistant football and track coach. He is married to
Mrs. Karen Garrett, and has a daughter name Lily. His pets are a Labrador Retriever named Judge,
and two Miniature Yorkshire Terriers named Rowdy and Petunia. He is a 1984 Jonesboro Hodge High
graduate and a 1991 LSU graduate. He has taught at Opelousas High, Cedar Creek, Adams Christian,
and Ruston Jr. High. His advice to students is to endeavor to persevere. He enjoys reading Mr. Nutt’s
spotlight and all of the issues of Chatterbox.
T
Chatterbox
eacher Spotlights
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 20
Mrs. Melinda Jackson teaches Biology I and is the co-advisor of the Keywanettes. She has
been married to Mr. Josh Jackson for nine years. They have three children: Jayden, five, Abby,
three, and Maddie Grace, four months. She is a 2000 graduate of Drew Central High School. She
then went on to get a BS in Biology at University of Arkansas in Monticello, and an MA in
Teaching from Louisiana Tech. Her favorite Bible verse is, “Not that I speak in respect of want:
for I have learned, in whatever state I am, there with to be content.” – Philippians 4:11
Coach Danny Roberts teaches health and Education for Careers, coaches the varsity running back
for football, and is the head softball coach. He is married to Mrs. Lynne Roberts who teaches and
coaches at Airline High School. They have three daughters: Samantha, twenty-two, a senior at NSU
and softball player, Kristin, nineteen, freshman at NSU, and Jamie, thirteen, in the 8th grade. He is a
1981 graduate of Zwolle High School where he was co-valedictorian. He then graduated from Northwestern State University. He says the pride and tradition at Ruston reminds him of his high school.
Zwolle holds 13 boys basketball champions and it was an awesome experience to play there. His advice to students is to get involved and enjoy high school; it’s the best time of your life. He loves to
deer hunt and bass fish. He hopes to retire and live on Toledo Bend someday.
Mrs. Missy Wooley teaches STEM physical science, Pre-AP physical science, STEM chemistry,
and CP chemistry. She is married to Mr. Steve Wooley, who teaches at Ruston Jr. High, and has two
children, Shetlon, a sophomore at RHS, and Madison, an 8th grader at Ruston Jr. High. She is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University. She is a fourth generation teacher; she says teaching is in her
blood and that’s why she loves her job. Her advice to her students is to cherish what they have in high
school, and shoot for the moon but don’t forget to have some fun along the way.
Coach Dan Gressett teaches environmental science and coaches baseball. He is married to Mrs. Jamie Gressett and has a sixteen-month-old daughter named Addy Lou. He also has two cats named
Ollie and Louie. He is a 1996 Lake High School in Lake, MS graduate. From then he went on to East
Central Community College, then graduated from Louisiana Tech in 2001. This is his tenth year now
at RHS. His favorite quote is, “A word to the wise ain’t necessary. It’s the stupid ones that need all the
help.” – Bill Cosby. His favorite joke: What do you call a dog with no legs? Doesn’t matter what you
call him, he’s not going to come. He loves to spend his time hunting and fishing. He would like the
school to know that Mrs. Pitre is the hardest working 72 year old in America.
V
Chatterbox
alentines Messages
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 21
To: Matthew Cardenas
From: Shelby Knodel
Happy Valentine’s Day sweetheart! I am so thankful for you. I love you, forever and always.
To: Satyn Kidd
From: Your Friend
Happy Valentine’s Day <3
To: Vivien Ballard
From: Hakeem Wilson
A special Valentine’s Day for a special girl. I love you, Vivi.
To: Caitlin Berry
From: Nick Parks
Hey, boo!!! Happy Valentine’s Day! I can’t believe it’s already here, but
there’s no one else I would rather spend it with! ILU ;)
To: FBLA Members
From: Mr. Bruner
Keep up the intensity! State should be ours! Love it and do your best. Love ya’ll!
To: Chatterbox
From: Mr. Bruner
I love ya’ll, especially if this edition gets printed on time!
V
alentines Messages
Ruston High School
Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 22
To: Erin Maxson
From: Blake Cheatwood
You’re the sweetest, most beautiful girl I know.
Happy Valentine’s Day, I love you!
To: David Calhoun
From: Chelsea Axton
You mean the world to me and you’re the best thing that
has ever happened to me! I love you so much, Davie!
To: Labresha Maclain
From: Sunni McCallister
Happy Valentine’s Day, Mrs. Jackson. <3
To: Blake Cheatwood
From: Erin Maxson
Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you!! :)
To: Sarah Kay Blaylock
From: Preston Ponder
We have been through so much together, and I can’t wait for
what our future brings! I love you, Sarah!
To: Mrs. Christy Bruner
From: Mr. Bruner
Happy Valentine’s Day! My heart is yours. Love you, baby!
Loved you once! Love you still! Always have! Always
will!
V
alentines Messages
Ruston High School
Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 23
To: Maria Creamer
From: Shane Giddings
I love you so much. Baby come back to me. You can put the blame on me.
To: Mary Jane
From: Spiderman
You’re the best person ever. You make me a better man.
To: Erin Goree
From: Your Husband
Erin Goree, you belong with me. I can’t wait until we get
married. Until then, I’m waiting for that day to get on one
knee.
To: Mis alumnos
From: Anonymous
Feliz dia de la Amistad!
To: Mr. Knutt
From: The Illuminati
Keep up the good work.
To: Mr. Bruner
From: Chatterbox
Mr. Bruner, we appreciate everything you do for us and how hard you work
to create such an awesome paper! We all love you and thank you for putting
up with our craziness! And our laziness!
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ervice and Social
Ruston High School
Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 24
Update on FCA
by Ambria Holmes
Sports Reporter
FCA held a meeting on the January 26, 2012. Coach Brown opened the meeting by telling the group when their next prayer meetings will be held and what events are
coming up for the club. After Coach Brown finished, Mr. Elliot took over and discussed what they had talked about in their previous meeting. He also explained how you
should pray for others and the school. He wrapped up by saying a prayer and Coach Brown said his final words and dismissed the meeting. FCA is definitely a group that
shares how you could better your relationship with God. Just being present in the meeting can touch your heart if you listen to the message and receive it. FCA meets once a
month in the auditorium.
Grecian Romance: Time for Prom
by Jaisle Bailey
News Editor
It’s that time of the year again, ladies and gentlemen. Prom. Something every Junior and Senior dreams of attending. Ruston High School Junior and Senior Prom will be
held on March 24, 2012 at the Louisiana Tech Student Center where it was held last year. It is from 9 PM to 12 midnight. The theme this year is Grecian Romance. Mrs.
Griffin, in room 220, along with the prom committee continues to meet and plan the event.
If you plan on going to prom, go ahead and snag your tickets before the price goes up. Juniors will pay on a sliding scale: $25 in January, $30 in February, and $35 in
March. Seniors, if you paid as a Junior, you will not have to repay as a Senior. For Seniors who did not pay as a Junior the cost is $35. Guests of Junior and Seniors do not
have to pay. However, all Juniors and Seniors, male and female, who attend Ruston High School and plan to attend must pay. If you purchase a ticket, you will receive them
a week before prom with your name on them.
Male Beauty Pageant
by Nathan Bennett
Academic Reporter
The Male Beauty Pageant will be Tuesday, March 13 at 7 pm in the RHS auditorium. Any RHS male is invited to participate, though clubs and organizations are able to
nominate a member to represent their organization. The entry fee is $5 per contestant. Each male should provide a female escort and will participate in evening gown, talent,
and interview competitions. Admission to the pageant is $3 per person, with proceeds benefitting a local charity.
PYPM
by Ambria Holmes
Sports Reporter
PYPM recently visited Ruston Elementary to teach the second grade classes that began teaching at the beginning of the year. The teach almost every week. Members of
the group say that they enjoy teaching and getting to know the kids. They feel honored and do their best to educate young kids on how to keep themselves safe. Mrs. Maxwell
is proud of the group for all they have done. The teachers of the classrooms enjoy the group and so do their students. PYPM members would encourage those who love kids
to join because it is an awesome experience. They just want to educate the next generation and future Bearcats.
PCI Goes to Competition
by Alexandria Cockerham
Sports Reporter
Pre-college initiative (PCI) is preparing for their big break of the year. They are going to Grambling State University for the Engineer
Competition. The PCI groups has been working hard, putting together bridges so they can be the best. They have been meeting on Monday
afternoons since school has started. So when they attend the competition on February 15 they should be over prepared for it. RHS hopes PCI
brings home first place, Good luck PCI!
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Chatterbox
tudent Center
Ruston High School
Ask the Staff
February 14, 2012
Page 25
Ask Nick
by Kori Teague
Guest Reporter
submitted by Nick Letendre
Student Council President
What does it mean to love someone?
Jesus said to love others as He loved us. What
does that mean? “For God so loved the world that
He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him
will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
Does that mean we have to give up our children for
others? Not really. Does that mean that we have to
go be crucified on a cross for someone? Not necessarily. It just means that we need to be willing to
sacrifice things in our lives when we love someone.
Surely, since God gave so much for us because He loves us, we can show His love
in us to others. Happy Valentine’s Day!is onlyhis
What are your thoughts on Valentine’s Day?
“I think it’s a great time to share with not only your
significant other, but also with your friends, and
spoil them on one of the ‘sweetest’ days of the
year.”
Love is Sweet
by Amy Gibson
Guest Writer
L-ooking into your eyes takes my breath away
O-ver the rainbow is where i wait for you
V-igerous love is what you give to me
E-ver will i? with you i will never be through
I-n my arms i hold you close to me, putting away my pride
S-oothing your pain and brushing your tears aside
S-lowly, patiently waiting to be free
W-ith you i will spend every second, of every minute, of every hour, of
every day
E-ach hug supportive and loving everytime we
meet
E-very kiss tender and filled with passion
T-eaching you that LOVE IS SWEET
Articles, Rants and Suggestions
Students who like to write and would like to have their articles published in Chatterbox are asked to submit articles to [email protected].
If you have a particular rant, comment, or suggestion about anything Chatterbox has printed, or wish to present your side in an editorial, we would love to hear from you.
Bring your thoughts in writing to Room 318, pass it along to a Chatterbox member, or email it to [email protected].
F
Chatterbox
un Page
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Anti-Jokes!
Page 26
Sign letter of
the Month
How do you confuse a blond?
Paint yourself
green and throw
forks at her.
Whats green and
has wheels?
Grass, I lied
about the
wheels.
Word Search
Quote of the Day:
“ You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.”- Wayne Gretzky
Popular
Movie
Releases
In February
Did you know?
11% of people are
left handed
40% of McDonald’s profits come
from the sales of
Happy Meals
The first paperback book was
printed by Penguin Publishing in
1935
That the first MTV
video played was
'Video killed the
radio star' by the
Buggles
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Chatterbox
ponsors and Staff
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 27
2011-2012 Chatterbox Sponsors
Platinum Level Sponsors: ($200 +)
Mark and Donnie Bartlett
Green Clinic
First National Bank
Bank of Ruston
Ruston High School Alumni Association
Community Trust Bank
Gold Level Sponsors: ($100 - $199)
Jack Fluck Realty
RHS Business Department
Embellishments
Lloyd and Christy Bruner
Richard and Nancy Durrett
RHS FBLA, Chapter 617
Silver Level Sponsors: ($50 - $99)
Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office
Robert Temple, Agent (State Farm)
McCarter Financial Group
Tom Sumrall
Jo ey and Juanita Coker
Danny Carroll Appraisal
Bert C. Hogg
2011-2012 Chatterbox Advertisers
Business/Organization
Lincoln ACHIEVE
Driver’s Education
King of Hearts
Hi-Tech
Well’s Fargo
Pow Wow
Village Market
Matthew Ramsaur Photography
The Fashion of Ruston
Ruston Locker Room
Owner/Manager/Contact Agent
Cathi Cox-Boniol
Coach Ricky Durrett
Pat Murray
Richard Raue
Julie Guillot
Manuel and Nilda Chinchilla
Manuel Chinchilla
Matthew Ramsaur
Kelly Hogan
Yvonne Craft
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2
3
15
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17
17
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31
31
Please thank and support these businesses, organizations, and individuals for making your Ruston High School Chatterbox possible!
With special thanks to Principal Mike Milstead for all his support!
2011-2012 RHS Chatterbox Staff
Editor in Chief
Business Manager
News Editor
Sports Editor
Assistant News Editor
Graphics/Design Editor
Academics Reporter
Academics Reporter
Arts Reporter
Clubs Reporter
Clubs Reporter
Education Reporter
Social Reporter
Sports Reporter
Sports Reporter
Guest Reporter
Whitney Durrett
Elizabeth Smith
Jaisle Bailey
Reed Malek
Elena Till
Thirstan Cecil
Polly Michelle Gwan
Nathan Bennett
Sarah Kay Blaylock
Moriah Labbe
Erin Maxson
Emma Jones
Preston Ponder
Alex Cockerham
Ambria Holmes
Kori Teague
Adviser/Sponsor: Mr. Lloyd R. Bruner, [email protected]
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Sophomore
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Senior
The Chatterbox is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA).
The purpose of the Chatterbox is to provide information and to promote school pride. We strive to meet the criteria set by the National Scholastic Press Association for student 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 will not be published in keeping with the guidelines of
Hazelwood School District vs. Kulkmeier (1998). Signed editorials may be sent to Ruston High School, 900 Bearcat Drive, Ruston, Louisiana 71270.
Access the current edition of the Chatterbox at: http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/whatsnew.html and archived editions at: http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/chatterbox.html
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Chatterbox
ports
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 28
Pro Bowl? Really?
by Ambria Holmes
Sports Reporter
On January 29 in Hawaii the 2012 Pro Bowl took place. If you aren’t familiar with the Pro Bowl, it’s a game in which the
best NFL players from various teams come together and play against each other.
Honestly, I see no point in the whole game. I mean, it’s awesome that star players from different teams are playing one
another, but they do not really try in the game, so really, it’s pointless. I’m sure if the players really tried, the game would be
very entertaining, but that’s not the case. In the game, the players were not putting forth an effort. They weren’t really tackling or playing aggressively like they would for a real game. The game was not fun to watch so I only watched the final quarter. In the end, the AFC defeated NFC 59-41.
I think the real reason the game even happens is because both teams receive money. The winners receive $50,000 and the
losers receive $25,000. Regardless if they play for real or not, they are still getting the money. All I know is that I will not be
watching the Pro Bowl next year.
Sports with Animals
by Alexandria Cockerham
Sports Reporter
How would the world feel if animals could play sports? Many things come to mind when I think of an animal actually
playing a sport. I asked around RHS to see how the people who played sport’s will feel if they had animals as a teammate.
Chad Sims, a RHS football player, said he would be a little terrified but he said it would benefit them in many ways. In my
opinion, I think it would help us at a sport, because animals can do things we can’t do. I think if we take the time out to teach
them and work with them they will be just as good as sport players.
Tray Brown, a basketball star, said if animals were to play a sport with him it would be cool. A good animal that would
come in for basketball would be a giraffe because they are very tall and might have a little speed. Another thing is it would be
kind of funny to play a sport with animals.
Joe Paterno’s Legacy
by Reed Malek
Sports Editor
On Sunday, January 22 the sporting world lost possibly its classiest and most influential figure ever when Joe Paterno, legendary head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, died of lung cancer. Paterno spent his last moments at Mount Nittany
Medical Center in State College, Pennsylvania, the place where he spent 61 years of his life being a part of Pennsylvania State
University, 46 of which were spent as head coach of the Nittany Lions.
No matter how legendary and successful Paterno’s reign at Penn State was, it will sadly be remembered negatively by
many. Coach Paterno was fired a few months ago amid speculation that he neglected cases of child sex abuse by former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky.
Though Paterno’s legacy at Penn State is one that was marred by scandal in the last few months of his life, it is one that I
will remember as one of the best ever. Even if Paterno did not completely take the scandalous matters into his own hands,
blame should not be put him; and certainly, no university should ever oust a man who brought it 37 bowl wins, two national
championships, and a Division I-record 409 total wins during his reign as head coach. Besides his unprecedented victories on
the football field, Joe Paterno also brought classiness to Penn State University that is unprecedented, as well.
As the sequence of events at the university progressed over the past few months, it became clear that as Penn State left Joe
Paterno, his life began to leave him as well. Paterno was fired on November 9, 2011, and was diagnosed with lung cancer nine
days later. Two months later, the legendary coach passed away.
Rest in peace, Joe Paterno.
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Chatterbox
uper Bowl
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 29
Eli’s Late Heroics Lift Giants to Super Bowl Victory
by Reed Malek
Sports Editor
On February 3, 2008 it was the heroic head-helmet combination of David Tyree that helped seal a Super Bowl
XLII victory for the New York Giants over the New England Patriots. Two Sundays ago, it was the awesome
hands and superb footwork of Mario Manningham that did the same for the Giants against the Patriots once again.
For many weeks, and perhaps many years, before the game, Giants quarterback Eli Manning had frequently
been asked whether or not he was on the “elite quarterback” level of the likes of his February 5 opponent Tom
Brady and even his own brother, Peyton Manning. His 30 completions in 40 attempts for 296 yards, one touchdown pass and no interceptions answered that question for him.
The beginning of Super Bowl XLVI belonged solely to the Giants; the G-Men struck first blood with a forced
safety on an intentional grounding penalty called on the Patriots’ Tom Brady. A few minutes later, Eli Manning
found Victor Cruz for a 2-yard touchdown toss, putting the score at 9-0 in favor of the Giants after the first quarter.
At one point during the Giants’ early domination, Manning was 6-for-6 with 61 yards passing, and his supposedly
superior counterpart Tom Brady was 0-for-1 with a safety looming over his head. However, it didn’t take long for
Brady and the Pats to strike back.
Late in the second quarter, Brady led his team to a touchdown with eight seconds left on the clock on a 96-yard
drive which NBC commentator Chris Collinsworth called “one of the best in Super Bowl history.” After a bizarre
halftime performance involving (to name a few) Madonna, M.I.A., Cirque du Soleil, Nicki Minaj and a legion of
dancers dressed as Trojans, Brady complemented his fantastic first half-ending touchdown drive with another one,
this time ending in the hands of tight end Aaron Hernandez in the end zone. The Giants tacked on a few field goals
to close out the third quarter at a score of 17-15 Patriots.
Merely a minute into the fourth quarter, Giants linebacker—and former schoolteacher—Chase Blackburn made
a spectacular interception over the Patriots star tight end Rob Gronkowski at the Giants’ 6-yard line. The two teams
then exchanged possessions, setting the stage for yet another dramatic Super Bowl finish at the hands of either
Tom Brady or Eli Manning.
With a little less than five minutes left in the game, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker broke coverage and
drifted into a Giant-less area of field over 20 yards away from the line of scrimmage. Brady tossed a perfect a pass
to the wide-open receiver that, if caught, would have put the Patriots into position to not only score at least a field
goal, but to win the game. Welker dropped the ball, and the Patriots punted the ball to the Giants. Eli Manning took
the ball at his own 12-yard line, and it
was 2008 all over again.
Late in the fourth quarter of 2008’s
Super Bowl XLII between the same
two teams, Eli Manning scrambled
The Giants’ Mario Manningham (with ball) made a away from pursuing New England despectacular fourth quarter catch that was reminis- fenders and threw a hopeless pass to
cent of David Tyree’s from Super Bowl XLII.
receiver David Tyree. Tyree jumped,
Photo obtained from: www.sports.yahoo.com
miraculously got a hand on the ball and
pressed it against his helmet as he was
slammed to the ground. The catch propelled the Giants to a 17-14 victory in the game.
This time, it was Manning to Manningham. Eli lofted up a beautiful 38-yard pass to Manningham, who grabbed the ball like it was his first-born son. Manning and his superb receiving core
chipped away at the Patriots defense, setting up a rushing touchdown from Ahmad Bradshaw with
a minute left in the game, the score 21-17 in favor of the Giants.
Brady and the Patriots took the field and managed to get near midfield with only enough time to
send a Hail Mary pass to the end zone that was batted away by New York defenders. The Giants
won an instantly classic Super Bowl victory as underdogs to the New England Patriots for the second time in five years.
The 4-seeded Giants entered the playoffs with a mediocre 9-7 record, coming off of a solid victory over the Dallas Cowboys in the last week of the regular season, which put them into the playoffs. They fought through the 5-seed Atlanta Falcons at home, then defeated the 1-seed Super
Bowl favorite Green Bay Packers and 2-seed San Francisco 49ers on the road to reach the big
dance. MVP Eli Manning marched into the “house that Peyton built” and he and his Giants left MVP Eli Manning holds the Lombardi Trophy after winning Super
with the Lombardi Trophy.
Bowl XLVI.
Photo obtained from: www.sports.yahoo.com
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Chatterbox
ports
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 30
Boys Basketball Finishes Regular
Season
by Ambria Holmes
Sports Reporter
The Ruston High Boys Basketball team defeated Bastrop on January 30 by a score of 6650. The leading performers were Jerry Melton who had 23 pointts, 7 rebounds, and two steals,
Jamaya Burr with 17 points, 3 assists, and 3 steals, and Raheem Regis 13 points, 7 rebounds,
and 4 steals. The Bearcats finished their season yesterday against the Ouachita Lions on the
road.
BEARCAT TENNIS SCHEDULE
DATE
OPPONENT
LOCATION
Feb. 23
Caddo Magnet
HOME
Feb. 27
Neville
HOME
March 1
Caddo Magnet
Away
March 6
Cedar Creek
HOME
March 8
West Ouachita
HOME
March 13
West Monroe
Away
March 15
Franklin Parish
HOME
March 22
Ouachita
HOME
March 27
Cedar Creek
HOME
March 29
Franklin Parish
Away
April 10
West Ouachita
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Bearcat Raheem Regis (33) goes up for a rebound.
The Lady Bearcats defend a Ouachita Lion.
Baseball, Tennis, Others Spring into Action
by Reed Malek
Sports Editor
As warmer weather begins knocking on the door,
Ruston High School’s spring sports are springing into
action.
On February 18, the Bearcat Baseball team will see
their first action of the regular season in a Jamboree
against West Ouachita. Later in the month, the Bearcats
travel to the Big Easy to play in a tournament at Brother
Martin High School in New Orleans. On March 22, the
‘Cats finally begin district play in a three-game, threeday series against Ouachita.
Next Saturday, February 18 the Lady Bearcat softball
team will begin their own regular season in a Jamboree
at West Monroe. On March 15, the Lady ‘Cats begin
district play against Natchitoches Central, and their
playoffs begin on April 17.
On February 18, Bearcat track & field members will
get a chance to compete at an indoor track meet at LSU.
On Saturday, March 3 the team will travel to ULM to
participate in the Super One Relays. The Bearcats get
their first home meet against Simsboro on Friday, March
9.
Come out and help support the Bearcats of the spring
sports as they begin their seasons!
S
Chatterbox
ports
Ruston High School
February 14, 2012
Page 31
Bearcat Soccer Teams Dominate
Senior Day
by Reed Malek
Sports Editor
On Saturday, January 28 the boys’ and girls’ Bearcat soccer teams played
their final home game of the regular season against the Wossman Wildcats at
Ruston Junior High. The teams also said goodbye to a total of twelve senior
players as they celebrated their bittersweet Senior Day.
The Lady ‘Cats defeated the Wildcats in a blowout, 5-0. Daniella Alva,
Garielle Dupree, Traci Evans, Erin Otwell, and Samantha Wilson all played their
last game as Bearcats that day.
The boys’ soccer team matched the girls’ performance with a blowout of their
own, defeating the Wildcats 7-0. The Bearcats said goodbye to Ceylon Godfrey,
Daniel Hale, Nicholas Liberatos, Brenner Mabry, Garrett Mills, Daniel Nichols, and
Marlin Rushing. The team finished their regular season that day with an 8-11-4 record
and went on to face St. Paul in the first round of the playoffs in Covington, Louisiana.
January 28’s Senior Day was a memorable one for all twelve senior Bearcats, and
they will be missed greatly by the entire Bearcat Nation!
left: Senior goalkeeper Garrett Mills (green) and Brenner Mabry (right) practice
before their game against Wossman on Senior Day.
Right: junior Darby Guinn lays a shot on goal.
B
earcat Spirit
Ruston High School
Chatterbox
February 14, 2012
Page 32
RHS Cheerleaders: Back-to-Back National Champions (cont.)
By Whitney Durrett
Editor in Chief
The Game Time division consists of three parts, Timeout Cheer, Timeout Dance, and Fight Song Dance. They did well in all three events. Competition Squad had the
high score of 94.63 for the Timeout Cheer, the high score of 96.07 for the Fight Song Dance, and the third place score of 93.07, only two points behind the top scoring team.
Throughout all three routines performed there were no penalty points taken away from the team.
The RHS Competition Squad has been competing at this competition for several years and has had great success every year. Last year they placed 1st in game time cheer,
st
1 in game time fight song dance, and sixth in Game Time time-out dance, which gave them an overall high score, winning the Game Time division. They also placed 3rd in
the Non- Tumbling Division.
This squad is made up of all levels of cheerleaders, freshmen to seniors. Working as one, they learned difficult stunts, dance routines, and cheers. In order to synchronize
over 30 cheerleaders, the team had to have patience and drive to work as hard as they could to succeed as a team. There are not many cheerleading teams that can have so
many girls on one team and still succeed as well as Ruston High’s Competition Squad did. Coaches for the team were, Mrs. Heather Reeder (sponsor), Mrs. Olivia Gorgon
(sponsor), Shelby Griffith (Game Time choreographer), and Stan Tabor (Non-Tumbling choreographer).
Earning the title of a National Champion, in any activity, is difficult. The Competition Squad worked extremely hard to get this title and they deserve it! These ladies
started practices in the summer and practiced at least twice a week, sometimes more, until the day of their competition. They competed two other times before Nationals,
including Regionals, which they won 1st at, and the LHSAA State Championship, which they had 3 first place wins and a 3rd place. The hard work and dedication was shown
throughout the time the Competition Cheerleaders spent preparing and through the success of their performances!
New Beginning for Pepettes
by Alexandria Cockerham
Sport Reporter
The Pepettes are preparing to start over with a new beginning for the 2012-2013 Bearcat Belles, Cheerleader, and Pom Squad try-outs. On March 8-12, 2012 the Bearcat
Belles will have try-outs open to all girls who are going to be 10th-12th graders for the 2012-2013 school year. Freshmen must be a current member of Pom Squad or Freshmen Cheerleaders to be eligible to try out. Sophomores and juniors may be in Pom Squad, Belles, JV Cheer, or a member of one sport or two clubs (in good standing with
those groups). You must have a 2.0 GPA and NO out-of-school suspensions.
Cheerleader Tryouts are March 15-18, 2012 for Freshmen, JV and Varsity Cheerleader Squads. Open to girls who are going to be 9th-12th graders for the 2012-2013
school year. Incoming freshmen must have a 2.0 GPA and NO out-of-school suspensions for 8th grade. Current Freshmen must be a current member of Pom Squad or Freshmen Cheerleaders to be eligible to try out. Current Sophomores and Juniors may be in Pom Squad, Belles, JV Cheer, or a member of one sport or two clubs (in good standing with those groups) Current 9th-11th graders must have a 2.0 GPA and NO out-of-school suspensions.