June 7, 2012 - Ruston High School
June 7, 2012 - Ruston High School
June 7, 2012 - Ruston High School
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
Box Tops<br />
Graduation (2)<br />
Graduates (3-12)<br />
Senior Ads (13)<br />
Clubs (14)<br />
Lincoln Achieve Ad (15)<br />
FFA/Science Wrap-Up (16)<br />
FBLA Wrap-Up (17-18)<br />
The Arts/Rally (19-20)<br />
Celebration of<br />
Champions (21)<br />
Community Service (22-23)<br />
Student Center (24)<br />
Staff Farewells (25-26)<br />
Sponsors and Staff (27)<br />
Sports (28-31)<br />
Spirit (32)<br />
Chatterbox<br />
The Voice of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
900 Bearcat Drive, <strong>Ruston</strong>, Louisiana 71270<br />
http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/chatterbox.html<br />
<strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong><br />
Class of <strong>2012</strong> Graduation Ceremony<br />
by Whitney Durrett<br />
Editor in Chief<br />
Inside<br />
RHS Graduation Pictures<br />
Page 2<br />
FBLA Awards Banquet<br />
See Page 18<br />
Upcoming<br />
Issues<br />
August <strong>2012</strong><br />
Back to <strong>School</strong><br />
Meet the Press<br />
Sports/Spirit Gears Up<br />
September <strong>2012</strong><br />
Cat Box: Pro/Con<br />
Getting Involved<br />
Football Frenzy<br />
October <strong>2012</strong><br />
Halloween: Pro/Con<br />
FBLA Preps for HHH<br />
Bearcats in Season<br />
<strong>2012</strong> RHS Graduates Lead the Alma Mater at Graduation at the TAC<br />
On May 22, <strong>2012</strong>, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> held their <strong>2012</strong> graduation ceremony. The ceremony began<br />
with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Taylor Hogan and the invocation led by Abbie King. Next, 4.0 students<br />
Braden Hilton and Maggie Ward spoke about their time at RHS. The RHS Concert/Symphonic<br />
Band and RHS Concert Choir performed during the ceremony. The concert/symphonic band performed<br />
“Of a Distant Star” by Ed Huckaby. The RHS Concert Choir performed “You Raise me Up” with soloist<br />
Brandon Hearn and “Don’t Stop Believin’” with soloists Jake Kyte, Parker Carwile, Dominique Cheffin,<br />
and Melinda Martin. Both the concert band and concert choir did a phenomenal job!<br />
After the performances, the 4.0 <strong>High</strong>est Honor Graduates of the <strong>2012</strong> class were recognized. These<br />
students were Taylor Hogan, Abbie King, Braden Hilton, Anna Fuller, Clark Pierce, Maggie Ward,<br />
Neesha Siriwardane, Macy Sutherland, and Jack Woods. Neesha Chandani Siriwardane was recognized as<br />
the RHS Student of the Year. Many of the <strong>High</strong>est Honor Graduates gave speeches about their time and<br />
love for <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>. Students scoring 30 and higher on the ACT were recognized for their achievement.<br />
Several awards and scholarships were presented during the graduation ceremony to the graduates.<br />
American Legion Awards were presented to Mary Conly Hammons and Nicholas Anthony Letendre. The<br />
John B. Holstead Outstanding Achievement Award was presented to Neesha Chandani Siriwardane by<br />
Kate Warner, Class of 2011. The Zane and Linda Skinner Family Charitable Fund Award was presented<br />
to Robert Pierce Spangler. The Ruth Johnson Memorial Scholarship recognizing the top math student of<br />
the year was presented to Clark Robert Pierce. Mrs. Kay White presented scholarships and special recognitions<br />
for the class of <strong>2012</strong>. Each member of the Class of <strong>2012</strong> was presented with a diploma and was<br />
named a graduate of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Congratulations to all <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> graduates, Class of <strong>2012</strong>! We hope your time at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> was<br />
enjoyed and treasured. Good luck with all your future plans and never forget <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. Remember<br />
- Once a Bearcat, Always a Bearcat!<br />
Celebration of Champions<br />
See Page 21<br />
Sports Wrap Up<br />
See Pages 28 - 31
G<br />
raduation<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 2<br />
Honor Graduates stand to be recognized Neesha Siriwardane is presented with the The RHS Concert Choir performs “You Raise Me<br />
Holstead Outstanding Achievement Award<br />
Up” by Rolf Lovland and Brendan Graham<br />
by Kate Warner<br />
Graduates receive their diplomas Anna Fuller explains the Honor Cord Graduates throw their caps in celebration<br />
2011 Student of the Year- Neesha Siriwardane<br />
by Jaisle Bailey<br />
News Editor<br />
Congratulations to Neesha Siriwardane, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> 2011 Student of the Year. To receive this high honor,<br />
Neesha went through a tedious process. Applications were sent out to the best of the best students at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. Once that list was narrowed down, the judges then looked specifically at the students<br />
ACT scores, their records, and their letters of recommendation given to them by various people not only in school<br />
but in the community. The students were graded with a reverse point system. The judges were looking for students with<br />
the least amount of points and found Neesha Siriwardane to be the best applicant. Once again, congratulations to Neesha.<br />
The Bearcat community wishes you good luck!!!
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 3<br />
4.0 Seniors For 2011-<strong>2012</strong><br />
Anna Kathryn Fuller<br />
2011-<strong>2012</strong> Rotary Club Winners<br />
September<br />
Clark Pierce and Macy Sutherland<br />
October<br />
Kane Killen and Shelby Giddings<br />
Clark Robert Pierce<br />
Macey Blake Sutherland<br />
Abbie Ruth King<br />
November<br />
December<br />
January<br />
February<br />
March<br />
Braden Hilton and Anna Fuller<br />
Reed Malek and Neesha Siriwardane<br />
Jacob Clark and Kori Teague<br />
Taylor Hogan and Maggie Ward<br />
Abbie King and Jack Woods<br />
Neesha Chandani Siriwardane<br />
John Richard Woods<br />
April<br />
May<br />
Molly Humphries and Parker Carwile<br />
Clark Pierce and Anna Fuller<br />
Congratulations to Anna Fuller and Clark Pierce<br />
Rotary Student of the Year Essay Scholarship Winners!<br />
National Honor Society: Dedicated to Helping the Community<br />
by Jaisle Bailey<br />
News Editor<br />
The <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> National Honor Society started the school year off with a<br />
bang as members participated in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation walk.<br />
Twenty three members of the NHS participated and walked one mile in downtown<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> on Saturday, September 17. They were among several other groups who<br />
walked the mile in support of juvenile diabetes research. The NHS also had a bake<br />
sale full of tasty snacks and through the sales and many donations; they were able to<br />
make a $300 donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation!<br />
At the beginning of the year, National Honor Society had 47 members, 23 of<br />
whom were seniors. This year’s officers were: President Braden Hilton, Vice President<br />
Maggie Ward, and Secretary Anna Fuller. At the end of the first semester the<br />
National Honor Society notified students of their eligibility to become a member of<br />
this prestigious club. Students with at least a 3.5 GPA and no disciplinary records will<br />
be eligible and received a letter and application work! The new members included:<br />
Colton Boothe<br />
Matthew Cardenas<br />
Parker Carwile<br />
Laura Cason<br />
Farryn Cooper<br />
Rachel Cowell<br />
Channing Dorr<br />
Melissa Dosher<br />
Jacob Duke<br />
Mary Hollis Graham<br />
Chandler Haddox<br />
Maggie Humphries<br />
Sara Jones<br />
Chad Leachmen<br />
Kendall Lopez<br />
Mary Margaret Manning<br />
Courtney McKinney<br />
John David Moore<br />
Ty Oakes<br />
Josh Owen<br />
Zach Passon<br />
Beth Ramirez<br />
Rachel Ruff<br />
Ben Serio<br />
Erica Sorenson<br />
Michael Tolar<br />
Rebecca Wheelis<br />
Caleb White<br />
Shelton Wooley<br />
Anna Claire Wyatt<br />
National Honor Society successfully raised enough money to make a generous<br />
donation of $500 to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. To say thanks to all of the people<br />
who donated money for this, the NHS had a drawing with various prizes including<br />
an iPod Touch, 2 Counter Culture gift cards, a Maggie Moo‘s gift card, and a Starbucks<br />
gift card.<br />
Last month, on April 20 th , Relay for Life kicked off at 6:00 PM in the <strong>Ruston</strong> Junior<br />
<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> gym. After months of planning and fundraising, all of National<br />
Honor Society's hard work paid off (with help from a supportive community.) The<br />
Lincoln Parish Relay for Life event raised a total of $21,004.<br />
To raise money for the American Cancer Society, members of National Honor<br />
Society members took turns baking treats and selling them during lunch for a few<br />
weeks. They also sold cards in the shape of a sun, a moon, and a footprint. The suns<br />
represented survivors, the moons represented victims, and the footprints represented<br />
support for the cause. The cards were sold for $1. Anyone who purchased a card was<br />
automatically entered in a drawing for various gift cards. The recipients of the gift<br />
cards were: Chad Reeder- $50 Wal-Mart gift card, April Winstead- $15 iTunes gift<br />
card, Monica Olsen- $50 Wal-Mart gift card, Charles Meads- $10 Sonic gift card,<br />
Kayla Delacruz- $10 Sonic gift card, Keshauna Davis- $20 Hibbett gift card, Carolyn<br />
Hudson- $10 Sonic gift card, and Ashley Reynolds-$15 iTunes gift card. Congratulations<br />
to the winners!<br />
National Honor Society held their Annual Induction and Senior Stole ceremony<br />
on May 8 th at the Lincoln Parish Library Events Center. The event kicked off with<br />
Len Woods, National Honor Society member Jack Woods’s father, giving the members<br />
a speech about what it means to be an honorable person. Former National Honor<br />
Society President Braden Hilton called the new inductees to the stage where they<br />
shook Mr. Milstead’s hand, lit their candles, and recited the National Honor Society<br />
Induction Oath.<br />
Mrs. Stephenson called seniors to the stage. They shook hands with Mr. Milstead<br />
while Mrs. Stephenson read their plans for after high school. Mrs. Bartlett presented<br />
the seniors with their senior stoles, which they will wear at graduation. Former National<br />
Honor Society President Braden Hilton announced Jake Kyte as the new <strong>2012</strong>-<br />
2013 National Honor Society President. Secretary and Treasurer Anna Fuller and<br />
Maggie Ward announced the new National Honor Society Leadership Council- Kari<br />
Hackbarth, Maggie Morgan, Eva Edinger and Anna Hall. Junior National Honor Society<br />
members were there to support the new inductees and the senior members.
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 4<br />
William Reeves Barr – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, University of Arkansas Non-<br />
Resident Tuition Award<br />
Savannah Susan Bassett-Gulley – Northwestern State University Presidential Honors Scholarship, Northwestern State<br />
University Opportunity Award<br />
Ashtin Marie Bell – Louisiana Bankers Education Council’s Freshman Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding<br />
Student Scholarship, University of Louisiana at<br />
Monroe Academic Recognition Tier II Scholarship, University of Louisiana at Monroe Housing Award, Louisiana Tech<br />
University College of Business Thomas A. & Lucinda<br />
R. Walker Scholarship<br />
Jordyn Elizabeth Brasuell – Mississippi College Scholarship<br />
Matthew Homer Brewer – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Kentrell Montez Brice – Louisiana Tech University Football Scholarship<br />
Joseph Scott Brunson – University of Louisiana at Lafayette Football Scholarship<br />
Ryan O’Neal Burton – BE GREAT Scholarship, Ludley McCall Williams American Legion Post #593 Scholarship<br />
Matthew Charles Cardenas – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Band Service Award, Northwestern State University<br />
Academic Excellence Scholarship, Northwestern State University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Northwestern State<br />
University Presidential Honors Scholarship,<br />
Northwestern State University Award Scholarship<br />
Kyle Hardy Carter – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Jacob Anthony Clark – Whit’s Warrior Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Louisiana<br />
Tech University Counselor’s Choice<br />
Scholarship, Southern Arkansas University Mulerider Success Award<br />
Jhafery ReJohn Clemons – Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Seth Edward Davenport – Montgomery G.I. Bill<br />
Indianeshia Breshaya Donald – Mt. Zion #2 Baptist Church Scholarship of Promise<br />
Mea Davise Dunn – Mt. Zion #2 Baptist Church Scholarship of Endurance<br />
Garielle Denear Dupree – Scott Tractor Company Scholarship, Louisiana 4-H Foundation Scholarship<br />
Mardeisha Se’-Yauna Elmore – START Savings Scholarship<br />
Traci Michelle Evans – Louisiana Tech University <strong>School</strong> of Architecture Freshman Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Robert Earl Fields II – Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Jasmine Marie Franklin – Mt. Zion #2 Baptist Church Scholarship of Promise<br />
Brooke Ashley Frasier – Louisiana Tech University Counselor’s Choice Scholarship<br />
Anna Kathryn Fuller – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Rotary Club “Student of the Year”<br />
Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Cheerleading Scholarship<br />
Prenicia Jana’ Gant – Grambling State University Presidential Scholarship, University of Louisiana at Monroe Academic<br />
Excellence Tier I Scholarship, University of<br />
Louisiana at Monroe Housing Scholarship, Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Shelby Lea Giddings – Whit’s Warrior Scholarship, Louisiana State University Academic Scholars Resident Award,<br />
Louisiana Tech University Louisiana Board of<br />
Supervisors Scholarship, University of Mississippi Academic Excellence Scholarship, Texas A&M University Opportunity<br />
Award Scholarship, Texas A&M University Non-<br />
Resident Competitive Scholarship<br />
Maegan Ashlei Goss – University of Louisiana at Lafayette Academic Excellence Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Kelli Kay Greene – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Southern Arkansas University Mulerider<br />
Success Award, University of Louisiana at<br />
Monroe Academic Recognition Scholarship Award (Tier II), University of Louisiana at Monroe Housing Award, Walmart<br />
Dependent Scholarship<br />
Anwei Polly Michelle Gwan – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, University of Miami Scholarship,<br />
Southern Arkansas University Mulerider<br />
Success Award<br />
Jacob Douglas Haddox – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship<br />
Daniel Gordon Hale – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Benjamin Mark Harvey – Montgomery G.I. Bill<br />
Mary Conly Hammons – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship,<br />
Jackie Woodard Whitlock Scholarship<br />
Zachary Daniel Hannibal – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Forestry Presidential Scholarship<br />
Jacob Michael Hashimoto– Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Connor Lee Haskins – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Caleb Hunter Hathorn – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Brandon Stewart Hearn – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
David Hernandez – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Braden Thomas Hilton – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Taylor Christine Hogan – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Savannah College of Art and<br />
Design Academic Honors Scholarship, University of<br />
Arkansas Non-Resident Tuition Award<br />
Peyton Blaine Huff – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, University of Louisiana at Monroe<br />
Academic Excellence Scholarship Award, University<br />
of Louisiana at Monroe Housing Award, Southern Arkansas University Mulerider Distinguished Award<br />
Molly Elizabeth Humphries – Miss Dixie Gem Teen 2010 Scholarship, Miss Louisiana’s Outstanding Teen 2011 Top<br />
Ten Scholarship, Miss Louisiana’s Outstanding Teen<br />
2011 Miss Congeniality Award Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior<br />
Scholarship, <strong>Ruston</strong> Hospital Endowment<br />
Scholarship<br />
William Ronald Irby, Jr. – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Andria Daniell Jackson – Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Diamond Alexandria Jackson – Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Robert Edwards James – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Millsaps College Scholarship,<br />
University of Arkansas Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship<br />
<strong>2012</strong> Scholarship Winners<br />
Christian Kane Killen – Louisiana Tech University Presidential Scholarship<br />
Abbie Ruth King – University of Louisiana at Monroe FBLA District Championship in Accounting II Scholarship, Louisiana<br />
Tech University Outstanding Student<br />
Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Louisiana <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Rally Accounting Scholarship<br />
Morgan Lindsey LaPrarie – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Miriam Davis Hogan Endowment<br />
Scholarship, Barksdale Federal Credit Union<br />
Essay Contest Scholarship, Bessie Talbert Price Purdy Endowment Scholarship<br />
Nicholas Anthony Letendre – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship,<br />
Louisiana Quarter Horse Breeders Association<br />
Scholarship<br />
Nicholas Logan Liberatos – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Nia Imani London – Northwestern State University Presidential Leadership Scholarship<br />
Reed Ellis Malek – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Robert Carter McWilliams – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Diamond Denise Melton – Louisiana Tech University President’s Graduate Scholarship<br />
Kimberley Sheri Miles – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Scholarship, Dewey Crayton Scholarship, Mount Zion Baptist<br />
Church Scholarship<br />
Justin Lavon Miller – BE GREAT Scholarship<br />
Garrett Lee Mills – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Demario Deshun Mitchell – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, University of Louisiana at<br />
Monroe Academic Scholarship, University of Louisiana<br />
at Monroe Housing Scholarship<br />
Demetric Louis Morris – The Lanes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Paul Millsap Scholarship<br />
Brandon Wilson Myers – Mississippi State University Entering Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship, Mississippi<br />
State University Entering Freshman Non-<br />
Resident Tuition Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Daniel Joseph Nichols – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Cyril Bapteese Noland, Jr. – Louisiana Tech University Football Scholarship, Oregon State University Football Scholarship,<br />
Southern Illinois University Football<br />
Scholarship, University of Memphis Football Scholarship, University of Louisiana at Monroe Football Scholarship, University<br />
of North Texas Football Scholarship<br />
Nicole Nnenne Nwoha – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Brandi Monae Outley – Jacques Le’Edmonds Houston Scholarship<br />
Nathaniel Jack Parks – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, <strong>Ruston</strong> Hospital Endowment Scholarship<br />
Nicholas Ford Parks – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Lauren Olivia Pate – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Clark Robert Pierce – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, University of Texas at Austin Engineering<br />
Scholarship, Mississippi State University<br />
Academic Excellence Scholarship, Mississippi State University James Worth Bagley College of Engineering Excellence<br />
Scholarship, Tulane University Presidential Scholar<br />
Award, Rotary Club “Student of the Year” Scholarship, Mississippi College Valedictorian Scholarship<br />
Dennis Evan Corbett Puckett – Whit’s Warrior Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Anterrious Markese Reed – Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Kenneth Roshun Rhodes – 15th District Order of the Eastern Star Scholarship<br />
Aaron Allen Robertson – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Maya Michelle Robertson – Concordia University Texas Walther Grant, Mississippi College Early Decision Award,<br />
Northwestern State University Track Scholarship<br />
Marlin Levincent Rushing – Ludley McCall Williams American Legion Post #593 Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Cody Lee Sanderson – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Scholarship<br />
Rachel Elizabeth Sims – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Clyde and Mildred Mobley and<br />
Kola Mobley Scholarship<br />
Lauren Elise Slaughter – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Elizabeth Ashley Smith – Future Business Leaders of America Senior Scholarship, BP Louisiana Business Challenge<br />
Scholarship<br />
Erica D’Juana Spencer – Zion Traveler Baptist Church Scholarship<br />
Morgan Alexandra Stanley – Whit’s Warrior Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Macey Blake Sutherland – Louisiana Tech University Presidential Scholarship<br />
Kori Anne Teague – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, University of Arkansas Leadership<br />
Scholarship, University of Arkansas Band<br />
Scholarship, Northwestern State University Presidential Scholar, Northwestern State University Academic Excellence<br />
Award, Northwestern State University Presidential<br />
Honors Award<br />
Ashlyn Elizabeth Thompson-Trammell – Baylor University President’s Gold Scholarship, Louisiana State University<br />
Tiger Excellence Award, Louisiana Tech University<br />
Outstanding Student Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship<br />
Margaret Ellen Ward – University of Arkansas Non-Resident Tuition Award, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding<br />
Student Scholarship, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship<br />
Jacob Daniel Warren – Montgomery G.I. Bill<br />
Sarah Elizabeth Wilkerson – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship<br />
Carrington Phauve Wilson – Whit’s Warrior Scholarship, Jackson State University Academic Scholarship, Alpha Kappa<br />
Alpha Sorority Debutante Scholarship, <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
Newbin Consistory #344 Scholarship, Mount Zion Baptist Church Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding<br />
Student Scholarship<br />
John Richard Woods – Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Louisiana State University Tiger<br />
Excellence Award, Whit’s Warrior Scholarship,<br />
Southern Arkansas University Mulerider Distinguished Award
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 5<br />
JIMETRIUS<br />
TRAMAINE ADAMS<br />
CODY<br />
ROSHAD ALLEN<br />
JASMINE<br />
LYNN ALLEN<br />
D’RON MARQUILLE<br />
ANDERS-CARSON<br />
TAYLOR<br />
ELLEN ATKINSON<br />
SHA’EMMA<br />
SHANTRICE BAKER<br />
VANADE<br />
VONSHAY BAKER<br />
ANISHA<br />
CURSHA BARBER<br />
WILLIAM<br />
REEVES BARR<br />
SAVANNAH SUSAN<br />
BASSETT-GULLEY<br />
MAURTIN<br />
THOMAS BEDFORD<br />
ASHTIN<br />
MARIE BELL<br />
CODY<br />
REAGAN BERRY<br />
COREY<br />
AUSTIN BERRY<br />
SPENCER<br />
CHRISTIAN BERRY<br />
MICAH<br />
JEREMY BLAKEMORE<br />
CHASE<br />
PARKER BORDEN<br />
DEQUAN<br />
TEREZ BRADFORD<br />
JORDYN<br />
ELIZABETH BRASUELL<br />
MATTHEW<br />
HOMER BREWER<br />
DESMOND<br />
KEMOYNE BREWSTER<br />
KENTRELL<br />
MONTEZ BRICE<br />
MIYATA<br />
KLESHA BRIDGES<br />
JOSEPH<br />
SCOTT BRUNSON<br />
DYANECHE<br />
RASHEL BUFFETT<br />
LANETTE<br />
DANIELLE BUGGS<br />
DYLAN<br />
EDWARD BURGESS<br />
RYAN<br />
ONEAL BURTON
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 6<br />
CALEB<br />
TYLER BURWAY<br />
CHRISTOPHER<br />
RYAN CALHOUN<br />
VANESSA<br />
MARIE CANO<br />
MATTHEW<br />
CHARLES CARDENAS<br />
KYLE<br />
HARDY CARTER<br />
SARAH<br />
PARKER CARWILE<br />
ORA<br />
CABINUM CATER<br />
KATHERINE<br />
ELIZABETH CHISOLM<br />
JACOB<br />
ANTHONY CLARK<br />
JHAFERY<br />
REJOHN CLEMONS<br />
CLAYTON<br />
THOMAS CLINE<br />
DEVONTE<br />
MONTEZ COOPER<br />
SHADARRIA<br />
RI’KIA CRAWFORD<br />
SHAMARIO<br />
FREDTAVIUS DANIEL<br />
SETH<br />
EDWARD DAVENPORT<br />
WHITNEY<br />
NICOLE DAY<br />
INDIANESHIA<br />
BRESHAYA DONALD<br />
PATRICK<br />
THOMAS DOSS<br />
CIERIA<br />
SADE DOUGLAS<br />
TE-AIR<br />
MALKIA DOUGLAS<br />
PATRICIA<br />
JU’VONNE DUHART<br />
LADARRIUS<br />
DEONTE DUNN<br />
MEA<br />
DAVISE DUNN<br />
GARIELLE<br />
DENEAR DUPREE<br />
MARDEISHA<br />
SE YAUNA ELMORE<br />
TRACI<br />
MICHELLE EVANS<br />
ROBERT<br />
EARL FIELDS II
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 7<br />
LOUQUYHANT’A<br />
SHONNELL FOSTER<br />
JASMINE<br />
MARIE FRANKLIN<br />
BROOKE<br />
ASHLEY FRASIER<br />
ALEXIS<br />
NICOLE FROST<br />
ANNA<br />
KATHRYN FULLER<br />
PRENICIA<br />
JANA’ GANT<br />
SHELBY<br />
LEA GIDDINGS<br />
THOMAS<br />
TANNER GIVENS<br />
CEYLON<br />
ROBERT GODFREY<br />
ERIC<br />
ALEXANDER GOREE II<br />
MAEGAN<br />
ASHLEI GOSS<br />
DOMINIQUE<br />
ROSHELLE GRAY<br />
BRENAJA<br />
SHARAYLYN GREEN<br />
KATHERINE<br />
OLIVIA GREEN<br />
KELLI<br />
KAY GREENE<br />
ASALAA<br />
SHANTRICE GUY<br />
ANWEI POLLY<br />
MICHELLE GWAN<br />
JACOB<br />
DOUGLAS HADDOX<br />
GARRETT<br />
MICHAEL HAIGHT<br />
DANIEL<br />
GORDON HALE<br />
PATRICK<br />
ONEAL HALL<br />
ABBIE<br />
MARLENE HAMMONS<br />
JESSICA<br />
RENAE HAMMONS<br />
JOHN<br />
CULLEN HAMMONS<br />
MARY<br />
CONLY HAMMONS<br />
ZACHARY<br />
DANIEL HANNIBAL<br />
BENJAMIN<br />
MARK HARVEY<br />
JACOB<br />
MICHAEL HASHIMOTO
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 8<br />
CONNOR<br />
LEE HASKINS<br />
CALEB<br />
HUNTER HATHORN<br />
SPECIAL<br />
CHINEE’ HAYES<br />
BRANDON<br />
STEWART HEARN<br />
CODY<br />
THOMAS HENRY<br />
DAVID<br />
HERNANDEZ<br />
MARGARITA<br />
HERNANDEZ<br />
BRADEN<br />
THOMAS HILTON<br />
SPENCER<br />
THOMAS HINTON<br />
TAYLOR<br />
CHRISTINE HOGAN<br />
TAYLOR<br />
ANNE HOLLEY<br />
NAKESHIA<br />
NICOLE HOLYFIELD<br />
PEYTON<br />
BLAINE HUFF<br />
MOLLY<br />
ELIZABETH HUMPHRIES<br />
GREGORY<br />
KESHAWN HUNTER<br />
TA’KIA<br />
SHUNAYE HUNTER<br />
ANDRIA<br />
DANIELL JACKSON<br />
DIAMOND<br />
ALEXANDRIA JACKSON<br />
KEANDRIEYA<br />
MICHELLE JACKSON<br />
ROBERT<br />
EDWARDS JAMES<br />
CHELSEA<br />
DANIELLE JENKINS<br />
JA’MARCIO<br />
KEONTEZ JENKINS<br />
NAKERA<br />
TYRICA JENKINS<br />
REAGAN<br />
SEYMONE JENKINS<br />
CARLOS<br />
JOHNSON<br />
SATYN<br />
ALEXIS KIDD<br />
CHRISTIAN<br />
KANE KILLEN<br />
ABBIE<br />
RUTH KING
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 9<br />
GEORGE GLEN<br />
NICONA LACY<br />
MORGAN LINDSEY<br />
LAPRARIE<br />
BRITTANY<br />
LASHAY LEBLANC<br />
DARRYLN<br />
RAYONTE LEE<br />
NICHOLAS<br />
ANTHONY LETENDRE<br />
NICHOLAS<br />
LOGAN LIBERATOS<br />
MARKQUEZ<br />
DIVANTA’ LITTLETON<br />
NIA<br />
IMANI LONDON<br />
RODERICK<br />
JERDALE LONG<br />
JERROD<br />
ADRIEL LOWERY<br />
BRENNER<br />
ALAN MABRY<br />
REED<br />
ELLIS MALEK<br />
QIERA<br />
VONSHA MARDIS<br />
JAMAAN<br />
TREY MATEEN<br />
TAITIONNA<br />
RICOLE MATTHEWS<br />
DERRIAN<br />
DESHAWN MAXWELL<br />
DEMARCUS<br />
ANTOINE MAYS<br />
LABRESHA<br />
LYNAE MCCLAIN<br />
JARRED<br />
D SEAN MCCRAY<br />
JESSICA<br />
LYN MCGEE<br />
DIAMOND<br />
DENISE MELTON<br />
KIMBERLEY<br />
SHERI MILES<br />
JUSTIN<br />
LAVON MILLER<br />
CHRISTOPHER<br />
CHASE MILLIEN<br />
GARRETT<br />
LEE MILLS<br />
DEMARIO<br />
DESHUN MITCHELL<br />
KIMBERLY<br />
MONIQUE MOORE<br />
DEMETRIC<br />
LOUIS MORRIS
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 10<br />
DUSTIN<br />
ALLEN MORROW<br />
TRAVIS<br />
MARK MORROW<br />
JOSEPH<br />
THOMAS MURPHY<br />
BRANDON<br />
WILSON MYERS<br />
KASHENNA<br />
SHANTIL NELSON<br />
DANIEL<br />
JOSEPH NICHOLS<br />
SETH<br />
OWEN NICHOLS<br />
CYRIL<br />
BAPTEESE NOLAND<br />
NICOLE<br />
NNENNE NWOHA<br />
ERIN<br />
LYNN OTWELL<br />
BRANDI<br />
MONAE OUTLEY<br />
BRENDAN<br />
WAYNE OWENS<br />
JAHNIYAH<br />
NIJAH PALMO<br />
NATHANIEL<br />
JACK PARKS<br />
NICHOLAS<br />
FORD PARKS<br />
LAUREN<br />
OLIVIA PATE<br />
CLARK<br />
ROBERT PIERCE<br />
SEBASTIAN<br />
SCOTT PISCIOTTA<br />
RASHEED<br />
DONNELL PROCTOR<br />
DENNIS EVAN<br />
CORBETT PUCKETT<br />
ANTERRIOUS<br />
MARKESE REED<br />
KENNETH<br />
ROSHUN RHODES<br />
MARKEISHA<br />
VENICE RICHARDS<br />
AARON<br />
ALLEN ROBERTSON<br />
MAYA<br />
MICHELLE ROBERTSON<br />
STEPHEN CARL<br />
FITZGERALD ROBERTSON<br />
KELLI<br />
ALEXANDRIA ROBINSON<br />
ARACELI<br />
MELENDEZ RODRIGUEZ
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 11<br />
JEB ANTONIO<br />
TUCK RODRIGUEZ<br />
KIMBERLY<br />
PEREZ ROMAN<br />
MARLIN<br />
LEVINCENT RUSHING<br />
CODY<br />
LEE SANDERSON<br />
LOGAN<br />
RAY SANDERSON<br />
ANDREW<br />
RYAN SANDLIN<br />
DEONTE<br />
MONTRELL SATCHER<br />
KEARROW<br />
SHANTELL SATCHER<br />
ANNA<br />
NICOLE SCROGGINS<br />
RACHEL<br />
ELIZABETH SIMS<br />
NEESHA<br />
CHANDANI SIRIWARDANE<br />
LAUREN<br />
ELISE SLAUGHTER<br />
JORDON<br />
MARIA SMALL<br />
ELIZABETH<br />
ASHLEY SMITH<br />
JACOB<br />
MICHAEL SMITH<br />
NATASHA<br />
DANIELLE SMITH<br />
ROBERT<br />
PIERCE SPANGLER<br />
ERICA<br />
D’JUANA SPENCER<br />
ROBERT<br />
BRECHIARD SPIVEY<br />
MORGAN<br />
ALEXANDRA STANLEY<br />
TAYLOR<br />
ADAIR STARK<br />
BRODY<br />
MATTISON SULLIVAN<br />
JASMINE<br />
SHANAE SUMLIN<br />
MACEY<br />
BLAKE SUTHERLAND<br />
KORI<br />
ANNE TEAGUE<br />
JO’CRIA<br />
SHAWANN THOMPSON<br />
ASHLYN ELIZABETH<br />
THOMPSON-TRAMMELL
G<br />
raduates<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 12<br />
DALTON<br />
CAIN TRAMMELL<br />
SHANTELL<br />
CHONNE TUCKER<br />
GARNER<br />
LEVELL WAGNER<br />
MARGARET<br />
ELLEN WARD<br />
JACOB<br />
DANIEL WARREN<br />
KEYANNA<br />
SENIA WASHINGTON<br />
LOREN<br />
ANN WEIR<br />
JANNELL<br />
SHAWNTA WHITLEY<br />
SARAH<br />
ELIZABETH WILKERSON<br />
DANESHA<br />
NYCHELLE WILLIAMS<br />
LANOSIUS<br />
MARTEZ WILLIAMS<br />
TIFFANY<br />
RENAE WILLIAMS<br />
CARRINGTON<br />
PHAUVE WILSON<br />
AULDON<br />
EATHEL WINN<br />
JOHN<br />
RICHARD WOODS<br />
TONESHA<br />
VONCHELLE WRIGHT<br />
LAKEEBRA<br />
BRUNCHE WYSINGER<br />
Seniors not pictured<br />
Daniella Jazmin Alva, Mercie Brook Colvin, Randall Wayne Elliott, Morgan Ann Marie<br />
Evans, Amy Elizabeth Gipson, Nicholson Gerard Hardy, William Ronald Irby Jr., Donovan<br />
Roydarius Johnson, Aliana Chaunce Jones, Benicia Diane King, Christina Nicole Mall,<br />
Keith Alexander O’Neal Mattox, Robert Carter McWilliams, Octavia Tashai Tasha Payton,<br />
Jujuan Dantrelle Peterson, Rickyerah T’Amberney Pritchard, Christol Monique Robertson,<br />
Purel Lashey Savoie, Dara Renee Smith, Daniel Strickler, Tyquan Demontavious Torbor,<br />
Sieara Genieve Walker, and Samantha Elese Wilson.
S<br />
enior Ads<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 13<br />
Congratulations to FBLA President - Senior <strong>2012</strong><br />
Elizabeth Ashley Smith<br />
Congratulations to all three of our<br />
Chatterbox Seniors!<br />
RHS FBLA TRIPLE CROWN WINNER!<br />
RHS FBLA Senior Scholarship Award<br />
RHS FBLA Business Student of the Year<br />
RHS FBLA Member of the Year<br />
Louisiana FBLA<br />
November Member of the Month<br />
National FBLA<br />
Business Achievement Awards<br />
Future<br />
Business<br />
Leader<br />
America (Only winner in Louisiana)<br />
Chatterbox Business Manager<br />
Elizabeth Smith<br />
Business<br />
Manager<br />
Reed Malek<br />
Sports<br />
Editor<br />
Polly Gwan<br />
Academics<br />
Reporter<br />
THANKS FOR LEADING THE BEST FBLA CHAPTER IN LOUISIANA !<br />
AS ALWAYS - YOU MADE ME PROUD!<br />
THANKS FOR A GREAT YEAR LEADING<br />
“THE VOICE OF RUSTON HIGH SCHOOL”<br />
YOU’RE GONNA MISS THIS! YOU’RE GONNA WANT THIS BACK. YOU’RE GONNA WISH THESE DAYS, HADN’T GONE BY SO FAST!<br />
THESE ARE SOME GOOD TIMES, SO TAKE A GOOD LOOK AROUND. YOU MAY NOT KNOW IT NOW, BUT YOU’RE GONNA MISS THIS!<br />
…………….AND I’M GONNA MISS YA’LL. STAY IN TOUCH! MR. B
C<br />
lubs<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 14<br />
The Best Debate Team. Care To Argue<br />
by Jaisle Bailey<br />
News Editor<br />
This has been an incredible year for the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Speech and Debate Team. They<br />
hosted their Annual Bearcat Classic Speech and Debate tournament on October 1, 2011. More<br />
than 100 competitors from 13 different schools around Louisiana competed in the tournament.<br />
Members of the community and RHS clubs helped the team by donating food items and volunteering<br />
as judges. The teams also sold Jambalaya plates to raise money.<br />
The following students have qualified for the State Championships:<br />
Jonathan Verret and Carter McWilliams in Advanced Cross Examination Debate<br />
Michael Davidson and Clark Pierce in Advanced Cross Examination Debate<br />
Ben Sawyer and Barrett Moore in Novice Cross Examination Debate<br />
Thristan Cecil and Conner Caudle in Novice Cross Examination Debate<br />
Rebekah Barnes and Darby Guinn in Duet Acting<br />
Savannah Woods and Darby Guinn in Senior Oral Interpretation<br />
Mlle Schroeder in Junior Oral Interpretation<br />
Mlle Schroeder and Celia Dodson in Duet Acting<br />
Colton Booth in Lincoln Douglas Debate and Extemporaneous Speaking<br />
2011-<strong>2012</strong> Speech and Debate Team Members<br />
Darby Guinn in Oral Interpretation and Original Oratory<br />
Ben Sawyer and Barrett Moore in Novice Cross Examination Debate<br />
The team travelled to Pineville <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> over spring break, March 29-31, <strong>2012</strong>, to compete in the state competition TOC, or Tournament of Champions. Advanced Policy<br />
Debate partners Jonathan Verret and Carter McWilliams came out on top winning first place. This was a fantastic win for the boys, the team, and <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
The Speech and Debate team presented The Undead Project on May 14 th and 15 th during various class periods and an evening performance on May 14 th . The play was a<br />
success. The play was about literary heroines that are upset at the lack of complexity in entertainment today and have risen from the dead to get rid of what they believe to be<br />
their replacements: the simple and unrealistic princesses of Disney. The princesses represent the direction of modern entertainment is heading: happy, picture-perfect fairy<br />
tales with flat characters that make zombies out of today’s youth. As representatives of the complex characters that make up classical literature, the back-from-the-dead heroines<br />
go after the princesses. The cast and crew did an amazing job!<br />
Senior Academic Awards List<br />
by Jaisle Bailey<br />
News Editor<br />
Congratulations to the following seniors who have received awards for their academic<br />
achievements:<br />
Sarah Carwile<br />
Anna Fuller<br />
Shelby Giddings<br />
Braden Hilton<br />
Taylor Hogan<br />
Abbie King<br />
Clark Pierce\<br />
Neesha Siriwardane<br />
Macey Sutherland<br />
Margaret Ward<br />
John Woods<br />
William Barr<br />
Kyle carter<br />
Jacob Clark<br />
Traci Evans<br />
Prenicia Gant<br />
Kelli Green<br />
Polly Gwan<br />
Jacob Haddox<br />
Mary Conly<br />
Hammons<br />
Zachary Hannibal<br />
Jacob Hashimoto<br />
Connor Haskins<br />
Caleb Hathorn<br />
David Hernandez<br />
Molly Humphries<br />
Christian Killen<br />
Nicholas Letendre<br />
Reed Malek<br />
Brandon Myerrs<br />
Nathaniel Parks<br />
Nicholas Parks<br />
Lauren Pate<br />
Dennis Puckett<br />
Rachel Sims<br />
Dara Smith<br />
Elizabeth Smith<br />
Kori Teague<br />
Ashlyn Thompson-<br />
Trammell<br />
Daniella Alva<br />
Anisha Barber<br />
Ashtin Bell<br />
Cody Berry<br />
Chase Borden<br />
Matthew Brewer<br />
Joseph Brunson<br />
Caleb Burway<br />
Patrick Doss<br />
Garielle Dupree<br />
Mardeisha Elmore<br />
Alexis Frost<br />
Maegan Goss<br />
Daniel Hale<br />
Patrick Hall<br />
Benjamin Harvey<br />
Special Hayes<br />
Brandon Hearn<br />
Peyton Huff<br />
William Irby, Jr.<br />
Robert James<br />
Morgan LaPrarie<br />
Nicholas Liberatos<br />
Taitionna Matthews<br />
Kimberley Miles<br />
DeMario Mitchell<br />
Daniel Nichols<br />
Seth Nichols<br />
Cyril Noland, Jr.<br />
Kenneth Rhodes<br />
Aaron Robertson<br />
Kimberly Roman<br />
Marlin Rushing<br />
Cody Sanderson<br />
Lauren Slaughter<br />
Morgan Stanley<br />
Sarah Wilkerson<br />
DRIVER’S EDUCATION<br />
• 6 – Hour Pre-Licensing Class<br />
• Course is State Approved<br />
• Must be 17 or older<br />
• Cost: Only $30<br />
For information, call: 251-1234
L<br />
incoln Achieve<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 15<br />
Proud Partner with <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> in Supporting<br />
STEM Magnet<br />
Adopt-A-<strong>School</strong><br />
New Teach @ <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
New Tech Banking<br />
Career Center<br />
Chatterbox<br />
PTA Mini Grants<br />
Cyber Camps<br />
Project INVEST<br />
Dual Enrollment<br />
NASA Threads<br />
RHS Ambassadors<br />
Dollars and $ense Reality Fair Digital Media Initiatives<br />
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)<br />
Celebration of Champions<br />
Rotary Student of the Month<br />
Student and Teacher of the Year Awards<br />
CONGRATULATIONS ON ANOTHER GREAT YEAR!<br />
Cathi Cox-Boniol, ACHIEVE Coordinator
F<br />
FA and Science Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 16<br />
FFA 2011-<strong>2012</strong><br />
by Thristan Cecil<br />
Graphics Design Editor<br />
FFA finished the 2011-<strong>2012</strong> year strong in representing <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
Taking two Area Titles, two District Titles, and one State Champion Title with three<br />
members ranking in the State of Louisiana, FFA has surely preformed greatly this<br />
year. With the group of incoming freshmen, FFA has a bright future ahead of them<br />
with many upcoming FFA Leaders for the years to come.<br />
Starting off on January 6th in Downsville, LA, District II Champion in Creed<br />
Speaking was Barrett Moore and District II Runner-up was Hannah Rhodes. These<br />
two students were the top two out of the eleven students that competed district-wide<br />
in Creed Speaking. The Parliamentary Procedure Team was also named the District II<br />
Champion. Jonathan Craig and Brandon Myers also received 3rd and 4th place respectively<br />
in the Extemporaneous Speaking competitions. All of these students qualified<br />
for and competed at the Area I competitions. The top two at Area from each<br />
event then moved on to state competition.<br />
Next, FFA members that competed at the Area I Leadership Career Development<br />
Events on Thursday, January 12 at Louisiana Tech University were named Area I<br />
Champions. The team competed on Tuesday, January 17th for the state competition<br />
and was ranked 5th place in the state for <strong>2012</strong>. Jonathan Craig was also named the<br />
Area I Champion in Extemporaneous Speaking while Brandon Myers earned 4th<br />
place. Hannah Rhodes earned 2nd place in Creed speaking and Barrett Moore received<br />
3rd place. The top two from each event at Area competition then moved on to<br />
state competition<br />
FFA also congratulates the Freshman FFA students that competed at the Districtwide<br />
Freshman Day Leadership events on January 6th in Downsville, LA. They<br />
An Ode to Science and STEM<br />
by Moe Labbe<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
placed first in the Opening and Closing<br />
Ceremonies and then placed 2nd in Parliamentary<br />
Procedures. These freshmen<br />
went above and beyond for the leadership<br />
events and are hoped to be future FFA<br />
leaders.<br />
Then in Baton Rouge - going for the<br />
State Champion title in Electricity was<br />
Joshua Roane. He was awarded the state<br />
champion banner by the Associated<br />
Builders and Contractor's Technical College<br />
in Baton Rouge. He was also named<br />
the <strong>High</strong>est Individual in the state in Electricity.<br />
Awarded the <strong>High</strong>est Individual<br />
in the state in the Dairy Foods event was<br />
Cristal Cano. The Dairy Foods team of Cristal Cano, Sara Jones, and Brandi Griffin<br />
was ranked as a team 3rd in the state. Other teams that ranked in the top ten in the<br />
state were the Small Engines team of Paul Martin and Dylan Chandler and also the<br />
Meat Evaluation team of Hannah Hearne, Nick Liberatos, Brandon Myers, and Ryan<br />
Dooley.<br />
With all the success that FFA has brought to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> throughout the year and<br />
with high rankings in competitive events and taking several titles, next year’s RHS<br />
FFA chapter knows that they will be even better.<br />
During our entire school year, we have praised our science and STEM classes for their esteemed accomplishments. So as the year comes to a close, we reminisce on all<br />
they have done. September 17 th , 2011, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>‘s Bearcat Robotics team finished fourth place in the 2011 Regional Autonomous Robotics Competition BOE-BOT Sumo<br />
Division. The members were Clark Pierce, Neesha Siriwardane, Macey Sutherland, Kane Killen, Nathan Taylor, Phillip Alva, and Alexis White, coached by Emile Frey.<br />
They advanced on to quarterfinals, but unfortunately didn’t get the opportunity to go. Next year promises to be ever better!
C<br />
lubs<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 17<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> FBLA Is Louisiana’s Top Chapter<br />
by Elizabeth Smith<br />
FBLA President<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Chapter 617 was officially named Louisiana’s top FBLA chapter by winning the Gold Seal Chapter of<br />
Merit. In addition, the chapter earned more state championships than any other school for the third straight year, winning four additional titles as well as securing the State<br />
Parliamentarian position for the second consecutive year. State champions and State Parliamentarian Ben Serio are pictured below. Congratulations to FBLA members. Let’s<br />
perform well at nationals and work towards a four-peat next year!<br />
Riley Thompson<br />
State Champion<br />
Introduction to Business<br />
Thristan Cecil<br />
State Champion<br />
Digital Video Production<br />
Michael Davis, Shelby Stinson, Ben Serio, Jonathan Craig, and Ty Oakes<br />
State Champions<br />
Parliamentary Procedures Team<br />
Ben Serio<br />
Louisiana FBLA<br />
State Parliamentarian<br />
Come visit <strong>Ruston</strong>’s Newest Full-Service<br />
Convenience Store!<br />
Home of Arby’s<br />
Stop by for<br />
211 Farmerville <strong>High</strong>way, <strong>Ruston</strong>, Louisiana<br />
101 South Service Road,<br />
Exit 85 and <strong>High</strong>way 167<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong>, Louisiana
C<br />
lubs<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 18<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> FBLA: Success in <strong>2012</strong><br />
by Lloyd R. Bruner<br />
FBLA Adviser/Chatterbox Adviser<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Chapter 617 had a remarkable year. In addition to being recognized as the top chapter in the state and<br />
receiving the competitive events and state recognitions covered on page 17, the chapter also had a team participate in the Louisiana Bicentennial Challenge, capturing second<br />
place in the region. The chapter conducted many community service projects and held their first annual awards banquet, where several members were honored, to include special<br />
member of the year honors for RHS FBLA, RJHS FBLA, and Chatterbox. The chapter also saw winners of every level of the Business Achievement Awards (BAA) Program,<br />
including our chapter’s first ever America winner, President Elizabeth Smith, who was also the only FBLA member in the entire state to earn this award. The chapter is<br />
already planning next year’s calendar as they prepare to qualify members for the 2013 FBLA National Leadership Conference to be held in Anaheim, California.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> Team FBLA earned second place<br />
at regional competition in the Louisiana<br />
Bicentennial Challenge. Pictured are District<br />
II Vice President Jared Spiller, RHS<br />
FBLA President Elizabeth Smith, and Louisiana<br />
State Parliamentarian John Herren.<br />
<strong>2012</strong> RHS FBLA<br />
Senior Scholarship Award<br />
Elizabeth Smith<br />
Presented by past winners<br />
Danielle McCoy and Drew Boyd<br />
<strong>2012</strong> RHS FBLA<br />
Business Student of the Year Award<br />
Elizabeth Smith<br />
Presented by past winner Natasha Alva<br />
<strong>2012</strong> RHS FBLA<br />
Member of the Year Award<br />
Elizabeth Smith<br />
Presented by past winners<br />
Amber Brown and Drew Boyd<br />
<strong>2012</strong> RJHS FBLA<br />
Member of the Year Award<br />
Amber Smith<br />
<strong>2012</strong> Chatterbox<br />
Member of the Year Award<br />
Whitney Durrett<br />
Elizabeth Smith<br />
BAA Award - America<br />
(First for RHS FBLA)<br />
(Only winner in Louisiana <strong>2012</strong>)<br />
Congratulations<br />
Seniors!
T<br />
he Arts<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 19<br />
Bearcat Choir Recap<br />
by Emma Jones<br />
Education Reporter<br />
The choir started the year with a bang. After having twenty two auditions for LMEA & ACDA All State Choir, eleven made it. Out of those who auditioned, Senior<br />
Parker Carwile and Sophomore Adam Ramachandran made LMEA All-State Choir. Those who auditioned for ACDA and made it are Juniors Jarvis Spearman, Chizi<br />
Akoma, Octavius Jackson, and Ryan Booker and Sophomore Adam Ramachandran for the men‘s choir, Seniors Parker Carwile and Dara Smith, and Sophomores Bethany<br />
Cardenas, Courtney McKinney, and Melinda Martin for the women‘s choir, and Freshman April Hooper for the youth choir.<br />
For the remainder of October, the Bearcat choir recorded songs for a Christmas CD that was released in early December. On this CD there were tracks performed by the<br />
concert choir, treble choir, and some piano performances by members. With a successful Coffee, Cakes, and Carols held on December 1st, the Bearcat Choir is moved right<br />
along with their plans for the upcoming holidays. This year‘s show featured performances of tracks on the CD by the Concert Choir, the Treble Choir, and the whole Bearcat<br />
Choir, a performance by the Beginning Choir, performances of the vocal solos, and duets, and an intermission performance by Courtney McKinney. This year, there was also<br />
a special sing-a-long with the audience. During intermission, the guests were allowed to select from an array of desserts to enjoy. Beginning on December 16th, the choir<br />
toured the town, singing for their first order of Sing-O-Grams, which involved traveling around the city to designated businesses and residences and singing carols. The Sing<br />
-O-Grams continued into that weekend, with a different round of members visiting residences and businesses on the 17 th and later on the 20 th .<br />
On Thursday, January 26, the Bearcat Choir gave a concert performance featuring guest conductor Charles Bruffy and composer Blake Henson. The Treble choir performed<br />
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<br />
of which was written by Henson.<br />
On Thursday, February 23rd, The Bearcat Choir competed in the District Rally competition. At this competition, choirs from around the district perform three songs. After<br />
their performance, they are tested on their sight-reading skills. Both the performances and the sight-readings are rated on a scale of 1 to 4, with 1 being superior and thus<br />
qualifying the choir for state. Both the Treble Choir and the Concert Choir performed the same numbers from the Charles Bruffy/Blake Henson concert that they performed<br />
back in January. After their performances and sight-reading evaluations, both choirs came away with an overall 1.<br />
For the fifth consecutive year, the Bearcat Choir has given our community successful Bearcats on Broadway performances. There were three performances: one on the<br />
evening of Friday, March 30; a matinee on Saturday, March 31; and an evening performance on March 31. In fact, two out of three shows (both evening performances) were<br />
almost completely sold out. This year’s performance featured numbers from Jersey Boys, Wicked, Jekyll & Hyde, Les Miserables, South Pacific, Spamalot, Miss Saigon, and<br />
more. There were three numbers that involved the entire Bearcat Choir from A Funny Thing that Happened on the Way to the Forum, Hair, and Fame. There was even one<br />
number from Hairspray that showcased The Bearcat Belles.<br />
After the last show, the choir director, Ms. Mindy Martin, handed out awards to some of the members of the choir. Four of the awards were voted on by the choir, and<br />
three were selected by Ms. Martin. The winners of the elected awards were Rachel Hegab for Outstanding Freshman, Rachel Ruff and Caleb White for Outstanding Sophomore,<br />
Cassidy King and Caleb Kennedy for Outstanding Junior, and Dara Smith, Parker Carwile, and Maggie Ward for Outstanding Senior. For the director’s choice, the<br />
winners were Sophomores Carter Carroll, Laura Cason, and Shelbey LaTour for Most Improved, Freshman April Hooper and Senior Brandon Hearn for Service, and senior<br />
Parker Carwile for the Arion Music Award.<br />
This year, the choir had a spectacular year. Unfortunately, they will be losing someone very important to their hearts: the choir director, Ms. Martin. Ms. Martin is leaving<br />
to pursue her master’s degree, but fret not, she will put someone very diligent and capable in charge for another successful year next year.<br />
Bearcats on Broadway<br />
Coffee Cakes and Carrols
T<br />
he Arts/ Rally<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 20<br />
RHS Band—Best in the State<br />
by Polly Michelle Gwan<br />
Academics Reporter<br />
After a very successful year, the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Bearcat band ended the season<br />
with a Luau! The Hawaiian themed banquet, held on May 19, <strong>2012</strong>, celebrated the success<br />
of the band as a whole, the achievements of individuals, and senior members. To<br />
begin the night, the students, directors, and their family members enjoyed a night of hilarious<br />
clips from the 2011-<strong>2012</strong> "Band Video" and also had fun participating in a Limbo<br />
contest before awards were presented.<br />
The first awards of the night were the awards given by the Band Booster Club to the<br />
students who received letterman jackets through band. Also, students who lettered the<br />
previous year received jacket bars for going 100 points above the required score for letterman<br />
jackets. The band boosters also gave awards to all band students depending on<br />
what year they had completed in band. First year members received a patch with the<br />
name of their instrument, second year members received a keychain with the RHS band<br />
logo, third year members received a luggage tag with the RHS band logo, and fourth year<br />
members received a coffee "to-go" cup with the signatures of all the senior members of<br />
the band. Next, the senior members received the senior band award, which was a plaque<br />
with all their accomplishments.<br />
Many students were also recognized for their noticeable talent and dedication to the band. Congratulations to the students who were awarded the following awards: the<br />
“Most Improved" award - Joycelyn Jackson, Cody Livingston, Logan Young, Jaszmine Mays, and Ron Anders; the "Service" award – Dana White, Bethany Roberts, Cohen<br />
Stockman, Jacob Smith, and Anna Scroggins; the "Musicianship" award – Tristen Sullivan, Chaning Dorr, Michael Tolar, John Herren, and Matthew Cardenas; and the<br />
"Leadership" award – Brooke Warren, Melissa Dosher, Michael Davis, Dalton Trammell, and Garrett Mills. Students who also excelled academically while participating in<br />
the band also received awards. Congratulations to John Herren and Kori Teague for receiving the All-State Academic achievement medals. Also congratulations to Brooke<br />
Warren, Chaning Dorr, John Herren, and Melissa Dosher, Nick Ruff, and Ben Serio for receiving an award for maintaining straight A's for the entire school year.<br />
Special awards were also given to senior band members as well. The "Band Member of the Year" award, given to the senior student who the students of the band felt was<br />
most influential, was awarded to Kori Teague; The "Director's Choice" award, the award given to a student personally chosen by the band directors, was awarded to Sebastian<br />
Pisciotta. The "Honorary Assistant Band Director" award, given to the student who worked alongside the directors the most to help the band function smoothly, was awarded<br />
to Joe Murphey; the "Semper Fidelis" award, given to the highest playing soloist in the band, was awarded to Polly Gwan. The John Phillip Sousa Award, given to the member<br />
who displays overall leadership, dedication, and musical ability, was awarded to Kori Teague.<br />
Lastly, congratulations to the <strong>2012</strong>-2013 student staff! The staff is as follows: Drum Majors –Head, Chrissy Dillard and Assistant, Shelby Stinson; Section Leaders –<br />
Flutes: Chaning Dorr and Sarah Campbell, Clarinets: Michael Davis and Spencer Morris, Saxophones: Bethany Roberts, Mellophones: Ben Serio, Trumpets: John Herren,<br />
Baritones: Landon Sims, Trombones: Tristen Sullivant, Tubas: Logan Young, Percussion: Cody Livingston, Lucas Hashimoto, and Cameron Haughton, Drum Captian: Sam<br />
Haskins, and Flag Captain - Brianna Lee; Secretaries – Raygina Lyons, Jaszmine Mays, and Ambrea Cage; Uniform Staff – Shelby Stinson, Spencer Morris, Ben Serio, Jacob<br />
Burdit, Joycelyn Jackson, and Manager: Michael Davis; Library Staff – Gracie Lewis, Brooke Warren, Reagan Turner, Elena Till, Richelle Morgan, Melissa Dosher, and<br />
Manager: Heather Croxton; Equipment Staff –Bethany Roberts, Keenan Washington, Michael Brewer, Dana White, Bradley Tornabene, Satchel Johnson, and Joseph Lawson,<br />
Percussion Manager - Lucas Hashimoto, and Manager: Taylor Estes; Sound Tech – Samuel Spaulding, Zackary Elkerash, Nicholas Ruff, Manager: Blake Vanlandingham;<br />
and Band Staff Manager - Cohen Stockman. Congratulations to all the members of the 2011-<strong>2012</strong> band and good luck to all the seniors as they move on to college!<br />
Literary Rally Winners<br />
by Nathan Bennett<br />
Academic Reporter<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> did a great job in literary rally this year. Over 40 students went to district this year. Out of<br />
those 40, 30 placed at district, qualifying them to compete at state literary rally against the best and brightest of Louisiana.<br />
Out of those who went, five of them placed 3rd, 2nd, or 1st overall. For those of you who missed it last time,<br />
here are the results again:<br />
Austin Meng, 1st in Geometry<br />
Ryan Duke, 2nd in BCA<br />
John Herren, 2nd in Spanish II<br />
Aaron Robertson, 2nd in Spanish III<br />
Ben Sawyer, 3rd in World Geography<br />
For everyone who went, great job and thank you for representing <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> so well. Let’s hope we can<br />
keep it up for next year!<br />
Students place at the State Literary Rally
C<br />
elebration of Champions<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 21<br />
Celebration of Champions<br />
by Jaisle Bailey<br />
News Editor<br />
The Lincoln Parish <strong>School</strong> District hosted its Fourth Annual Celebration of Champions on Monday, May 14, <strong>2012</strong> at 5:00 PM at the <strong>Ruston</strong> Civic Center. Parents and students<br />
gathered to honor the students who earned a state championship title in academic, athletic, extra-curricular, and enrichment competitions throughout the 2011-<strong>2012</strong><br />
year. The groups honored include:<br />
Band:<br />
Garrett Allen, Ron Anders-Carson, Andrew Brown, Jordan Bruner, Ambrea Cage, Sarah Campbell, Matthew Cardenas, Mercie Colvin,<br />
Heather Croxton, Jamar Curry, Michael Davis, Christan Dillard, Chaning Dorr, Robert Fields, Emmanuel Gwan, Polly-Michelle Gwan,<br />
Jacob Hashimoto, Lucas Hashimoto, Sam Haskins, John Herren, Rachel Huckaby, Hunter Humble, Ronny Irby, Reagan Jenkins, Joseph<br />
Lawson, Briana Lee, Gracie Lewis, Kelsi Lloyd, Jessica McGee, Kimberly Miles, Garrett Mills, Spencer Morris, Joe Murphy, Kashenna<br />
Nelson, Sebastian Pisciotta, Bethany Roberts, Aaron Robertson, Anna Scroggins, Ben Serio, Landon Sims, Shelby Stinson, Cohen Stockman,<br />
Tristan Sullivant, Kori Teague, Dustin Thomas , Elena Till, Michael Tolar, Bradley Tornabene, Tyllor Townsend, Dalton Trammell,<br />
Reagan Turner, Blake Vanlandingham, Brooke Warren, Keenan Washington, and Dana White. (Led by Mr. Walter Moss)<br />
Cheerleaders:<br />
Emaleigh Bickham, Dejayla Chambers, Savannah Chrisman, Emily Colvin, Emily Compton, Amber Crawford, Te-Air Douglas, Caitlin<br />
Elliott, Taylor Evans, Ansleigh Faile, Avery Givens, Chandler Haddox, Morgan Hitt, Natalie Hogan, Taylor Hogan, Katie Hopkins, Carley<br />
Jones, Kendall Lopez, Mary-Margaret Manning, Harper Neal, Larkin Nelson, Lauren Pate, Savannah Payne, Janese Penegar, Beth Ramirez,<br />
Mallorie Stafford, Morgan Stanley, Lauren Taylor, Rebecca Wheelis, Lexi White, Paige Williams, Carrie Wilson, Abby Gordon<br />
(Student Helper), and Shelby Griffith (Student Helper). (Led by Mrs. Heather Reeder and Mrs. Olivia Gordon)<br />
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA):<br />
Thristan Cecil, Riley Thompson, Jonathan Craig, Michael Davis, Ty Oakes, Ben Serio, Shelby Stinson, Elizabeth Smith, and RHS<br />
Chapter 617(Gold Seal Chapter of Merit). (Led by Mr. Lloyd R. Bruner)<br />
FFA:<br />
Cristal Cano, Joshua Roane, and Seth Wells (Led by Mr. Mark Milstead)<br />
Literary Rally: Science Fair: Speech and Debate: Track and Field:<br />
Austin Meng Clark Pierce and Neesha Siriwardane Carter McWilliams and Jonathan Verret Quanese Jones-Young<br />
All of the students were honored with certificates and the coaches with a plaque. This is the second year in a row that the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> cheerleaders have won a<br />
national championship. These consecutive wins prompted a special proclamation from Senator Bob Kostelka and the Louisiana Senate at the event. Congratulations to all of<br />
the winners and good luck next year!
C<br />
ommunity Service Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 22<br />
Key Club<br />
by Nathan Bennett<br />
Academic Reporter<br />
Key Club is a national organization that allows high school students to participate in service projects. It is currently the oldest<br />
and largest running organization of this sort. They work closely with the Kiwanis International branch of service projects,<br />
which helps out many groups of people throughout the year. This year the officers were: Jack Woods as President, Abbie King<br />
as Vice President, Shelby Giddings as Secretary, Demario Mitchell as Treasurer, and Mary Conly Hammons and Ashlyn<br />
Thompson as Reporters.<br />
The Key Club has been very active this year in participating in service activities. In October, they participated in the 60 th<br />
annual Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF. All contributions went to The Eliminate Project, an organization dedicated to eradicating<br />
neonatal and maternal tetanus in developing countries. They also rose over $300 dollars for Operation Uruguay which provides<br />
poor Uruguan children with education and medical services.<br />
In November, they collaborated with the <strong>Ruston</strong> Kiwanis group to help with their Pancake Day at the <strong>Ruston</strong> Civic Center.<br />
Every year they prepare almost 1,000 takeout boxes to help the Kiwanis cook meals of bacon and sausage. These meals are<br />
then sold to families so that they can have a hot, hearty breakfast without any of the normal hassle.<br />
Like always, Key Club has been an important part of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> this year. The service projects they do help to make <strong>Ruston</strong>- and the world- a better place.<br />
New Tech @ <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
Community Service<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
New Tech @ <strong>Ruston</strong> contributed to the community, as well as outside <strong>Ruston</strong>, with the Water Walk-A-Thon this year on World Water Day. Students at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong> participated in this event during school on March 22, <strong>2012</strong>. <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Bearcats walked around the Boulevard during school, and raised money for people around<br />
the world that need clean water. The money raised went to those in Africa that needed water most.<br />
Community Walks<br />
Relay for Life and Diabetes Walk<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
Students at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> have participated in many events this year such as Relay<br />
for Life and the Juvenile Diabetes Walk. Clubs like National Honors Society<br />
and 4-H have been a part of these walks for the past few years. National Honors<br />
Society made a three hundred dollar donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation<br />
this year. New Tech students hosted their own walk: the Water Walk-A-Thon to<br />
raise awareness and money for those that have an immediate need for clean water in<br />
Africa. Relay for Life was April 20, <strong>2012</strong> at RHJS because of weather conditions.<br />
The Juvenile Diabetes Walk was on September 17, 2011.
C<br />
ommunity Service Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 23<br />
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA): Service!<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
Once again, the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) ensured that community service was a priority this year. Their state service project was “Brave Soldiers”,<br />
where members helped celebrate the 527th Engr Bn (Cbt Hv) Desert Storm Reunion. In partnership with the new RJHS FBLA chapter, FBLA assisted the <strong>Ruston</strong> Fire Department<br />
in hosting Hot Halloween Happenings, a local “carnival” promoting fire safety awareness. During Christmas time, FBLA donated two hundred dollars to Christian<br />
Community Action and members donated to the <strong>Ruston</strong> Jaycees as they participated in the Christmas Parade. Members donated items and officers took gift baskets and<br />
Thank You cards to the <strong>Ruston</strong> Police Department and the <strong>Ruston</strong> Fire Department. To again honor our veterans, the chapter presented a special cake and cards for members<br />
of the Louisiana Army National Guard. FBLA also volunteered to work at the Lives Lost to Alcohol Dedication Program held at Temple Baptist Church. The chapter closed<br />
out the year by donating ten beautiful and well received gift baskets for Teacher Appreciation Week. The three pillars of FBLA are Service, Education, and Progress. Without<br />
a doubt, the chapter was successful in all aspects this year, and looks forward to an ever better <strong>2012</strong>-2013 school year.<br />
20 Year - Desert Storm Reunion Hot Halloween Happenings Honoring Our Local Soldiers Promoting Safety<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Pepettes and Sports in the Community<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
Many sports teams at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> have helped out the community during this school year. During football season, RHS Belles taught girls from kindergarten all the way<br />
to up sixth graders how to dance and act like Belles. At halftime at the Natchitoches vs. <strong>Ruston</strong> home game, the Belles brought out their Belles-in-training to dance in front of<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> fans. Towards the end of the year, Mrs. Heather Reeder took next year’s senior varsity cheerleaders and senior football players over to Hillcrest for Buddy Field<br />
Day. These players and cheerleaders directed games and watched a D.A.R.E. presentation with the kids that attend the elementary school.<br />
PCI Club<br />
Community Service<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
Throughout the year, PCI club has collected cans and other things to give to those that need it most. During the month of December, PCI members collected cans and<br />
delivered those cans to DART’s home for abused women. Even more recently, PCI collected uniforms from current <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> students for students that will come next<br />
year to RHS.<br />
City-Wide Cleanup<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Clubs Reporter<br />
On April 17, <strong>2012</strong>, a menagerie of clubs from <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> participated in <strong>Ruston</strong>’s City-wide Clean up. The RHS Keywanettes were one of these groups that<br />
helped clean this beautiful town of <strong>Ruston</strong>. National Honors Society also joined in the effort to clean the city. They spent their morning picking up trash and litter around<br />
roads and houses in <strong>Ruston</strong>.
S<br />
tudent Center<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 24<br />
Chatterbox Sends a Special Thanks to Our Advertisers and Sponsors<br />
by Elizabeth Smith<br />
Business Manager<br />
The Chatterbox staff thanks everyone who has made publishing the Chatterbox possible. Without the help of the advertisers and sponsors, Chatterbox would not be able<br />
to print. We thank all of our sponsors and advertisers for all your support throughout this year!<br />
Our Platinum Level sponsors this year were Mark and Donna Bartlett, John B. Holstead, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni Association, First National Bank, Green Clinic,<br />
Bank of <strong>Ruston</strong>, and Community Trust Bank. Our Gold Level sponsors were Jack Fluck Realty, Embellishments, Richard and Nancy Durrett, the RHS Business Department,<br />
Lloyd R. Bruner – FBLA/Chatterbox Adviser, and RHS FBLA Chapter 617. Our Sliver Level sponsors were the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, McCarter Financial Group,<br />
Dayy Carroll Approaisal, Robert Temple Agent – State Farm, Tom Sumrall, Joey and Juanita Coker, and Bert C. Hoggs. Their support is much appreciated.<br />
Annual advertisers this year were Lincoln ACHIEVE, Drivers Education – Ricky Durrett, Pow Wow Texaco, Village Market. Joining the annual advertisers this year<br />
were new annual advertisers Hi-Tech and Twisted Cow. Others advertisers who contributed with monthly ads this year were the RHS PTA, National Jewelry, the Fashion of<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong>, the Chiropractic Clinic, Temple Baptist, <strong>Ruston</strong> Locker Room, Matthew Ramsaur Photography, Wells Fargo, Argent, Songbird, Jim Taylor Ford, Toodle’s Originals,<br />
and New Tech @ <strong>Ruston</strong>.<br />
Thank you all as without your support, Chatterbox would not be possible, and “The Voice of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>” would not have been printed and distributed for the students,<br />
faculty, alumni, and community to enjoy. We hope to see you continued support next year!<br />
Ask the Staff<br />
by Emma Jones<br />
Education Reporter<br />
How can I keep from getting too bored this summer<br />
Plan ahead, always. For instance, this summer I plan on investing in an e-reader so I can keep myself occupied as often as possible. Also, plan<br />
ahead with your friends too. They’re your best bet at keeping occupied, so instead of throwing together last minute plans that’ll keep you on<br />
your toes at all times, plan things a few days ahead so that you have time to get more creative. At the same time though, don’t fall behind on<br />
any of your summer assignments, those always come first. But most definitely make plans and lists, such as movie marathons or books that<br />
you’re planning on reading.<br />
A Farewell to Departing RHS Teachers<br />
by Lloyd R. Bruner<br />
FBLA Adviser/Chatterbox Adviser<br />
Every year, seniors celebrate their days at RHS with great excitement and a bit of nostalgia. For some teachers, the same feelings also hold true as they look at leaving<br />
RHS for other professions, other schools, or even better, retirement. This year, RHS says farewell to eight of our faculty members.<br />
Teachers who will be moving on to other professions or opportunities outside of education include Mrs. Bolton, Mrs. Boyd, and Mrs, M. Martin. Mrs. Bolton departs<br />
to pursue her work in the ministries. Mrs. Boyd will be working full-time at home and taking care of her family. Mrs. M. Martin will be headed to work and continue her<br />
education at the University of Arizona as a graduate assistant (obviously continuing in her love and leadership of music). Their careers are far from over and whether in the<br />
classroom or not, they will continue leading others to a lifetime of learning.<br />
Teachers continuing in the area of education include Mrs. Strickler and Mr. Smith. Mrs. Strickler takes her talents to <strong>Ruston</strong> Junior <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> where she will continue<br />
teaching art. Mr. Smith will be taking his skills to assist at YRC. Both of these teachers will be a great addition to their new schools.<br />
Closing out their education careers and taking well deserved retirements this year are Mr. Sandefur, Mrs. Greenwood, and Mrs. Cazenave. All three of these teachers<br />
have served our school for years and have always been respected and loved by students and peers alike. There is no doubt that they will be missed.<br />
Mr. Sandefur will be retiring after years of leading several young adults in the area of agriculture science. He was instrumental in assisting several FFA members in winning<br />
in area, regional, state, and national competitions. Always mentoring his students, he was always a source of valuable knowledge and information, even helping out students<br />
with leads on jobs. Mr. Sandefur will be missed much by the students and faculty of RHS, but will be especially missed by the Ag department and FFA. It would be<br />
hard to find a teacher more compassionate about his students, about his job, and about his friends and family.<br />
Mrs. Greenwood will be retiring from teaching French for many years, and leading the French Club. Students could always count on her to deliver quality instruction<br />
and maintain classroom discipline to ensure that students could grasp the lesson. From teaching her students, to leading the many activities of the French Club, Mrs. Greenwood<br />
ensured that students were ready to head to France every year if they wanted and put their understanding of the language to good use. Every student, whether taking<br />
French or not, will certainly remember the Bon Bon sales. Mrs. Greenwood will be missed and RHS students have been blessed to have had her services all these years.<br />
Mrs. Cazenave is retiring from teaching after many years at RHS. Always organized and dedicated time manager, she managed to teach Spanish to students at every<br />
level over the years. The results have been numerous district literary rally and state literary rally winners. Her dedication did not go unnoticed as she was also selected in the<br />
past by the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni Association as an Outstanding Teacher of Year. Anyone who has ever walked the halls of RHS knew that Mrs. Cazenave meant<br />
business when her doors were closed, and knew that learning was taking place in her room. She was loved by all her students and she cared just as much for them in return.<br />
These fine individuals will no longer walk our halls as teachers, but expect to see them visit and keep up with RHS and the students. As the old saying goes - Once a Bearcat,<br />
Always a Bearcat! That applies to our teachers too!
S<br />
taff Farewells<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 25<br />
Reed’s Farewell<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Editor<br />
Before I sum up my two-year adventure as Sports Editor of the Voice of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>, let me first give thanks to<br />
all those who have made my progress and success possible over the past two years. Firstly I would like to thank our<br />
newspaper’s advisor, Mr. Bruner, whose zero tolerance policy molded my work ethic and skills into ones that I can<br />
proudly take with me to the next level. I would like to thank our principal Mr. Milstead, for letting us publish the<br />
crazy things we do. I give thanks to Whitney Durrett, this past year’s Editor-in-Chief, who stepped up to the challenge<br />
and led our newspaper after the loss of so many great seniors the year before. Last but certainly not least, I<br />
would like to thank Amber Brown, the Senior Editor during my junior year and my de facto big sis, whose work<br />
ethic and perseverance inspired me greater than anything.<br />
From the crazy Friday Nights covering football games to the cold December mornings covering soccer, I must<br />
admit that I was not always fond of my responsibility as Sports Editor. But in retrospect, I wouldn’t trade those experiences<br />
for anything. The trips to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> and its sporting venues during what would have been my free time<br />
taught me responsibility and gave me the skills I will need not only as an adult in general, but also as I pursue a career<br />
in journalism. Before I joined the Chatterbox staff, I had no idea what direction I wanted to go in life. <strong>School</strong><br />
was merely something I did every day because I was required to, and I had virtually no focus in my life. Being on<br />
Chatterbox also gave me a greater sense of focus which I so direly needed. There is no greater cure to writer’s block<br />
than being pressured to produce writing on a constant basis, and Chatterbox gave me the antidote.<br />
During my two fantastic years working for our school’s newspaper I truly realized the greatness of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong>. You’d be hard pressed to find a school in the state that matches the spirit of RHS. Being the Sports Editor<br />
for Chatterbox allowed me, better than anyone, to see and gain a greater appreciation for the inner workings and<br />
passion involved in our school. Having at some point covered every sport and spirit group down every hall and in<br />
every nook and corner of the school, I can say that I have had my fill of RHS. And though my time is up and I must<br />
leave <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>, I know that <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> will never leave me.<br />
FAREWELL RUSTON HIGH!!<br />
by Polly Michelle Gwan<br />
Academics Reporter<br />
Dear Students and Faculty of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>:<br />
These past four years have flown by so fast. I am so glad that I have had the chance to be a part of so many<br />
great organizations in this school with many of you. I am also glad to have had the chance to present you with<br />
many academic achievements over the past two years in the <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Chatterbox. The achievements I have<br />
covered not only have shown the school, but the whole state, how amazing our school is!!!<br />
As I venture off into the next chapter of my life I hope that you can always reflect back to my articles for inspiration<br />
and guidance whenever needed. Adios and GO CATS!<br />
S<br />
taff Farewells<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 26<br />
Good-Bye <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
by Elizabeth Smith<br />
Business Manager<br />
My four years in high school have come to a close. I am on to the next chapter of life.<br />
My years as a student at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> (RHS) have been great, but the greatest<br />
part of my high school experience has been being a member of the Future Business<br />
Leaders of America (FBLA) and a member of Chatterbox, the “Voice of <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong>.”<br />
I have really enjoyed being a member of FBLA over the years as it brought me opportunities<br />
to compete at the district, state, and National levels, where I was able to<br />
make new friends from all over the place. In addition to winning in these conferences by<br />
working hard and pushing my abilities to the limit, it gave me a chance to show my<br />
pride in my chapter and my school. I was honored to have been this year’s RHS FBLA<br />
president, where along with my past offices held and experiences, I formed a life time<br />
family bond with my officer teams. Between competition, leadership opportunities, and<br />
community service events that our chapter prides itself in, FBLA has made high school<br />
great for me. If not for FBLA, I seriously doubt that high school would have been much<br />
fun.<br />
Chatterbox also made my high school career enjoyable. I really enjoyed being the<br />
Business Manager for the last two years. Besides working on sponsors and ads so that<br />
we could afford to bring you the Chatterbox, I was also able to work with a great staff<br />
and see everything that was happening at RHS.<br />
FBLA and Chatterbox were so much of my life while I was at RHS. I have so many<br />
memories thanks to these two great programs that I will cherish forever! I will never<br />
forget the fun times I’ve had a nationals or all the great friends I’ve made. I thank my<br />
FBLA officer team, Chatterbox staff, and all of my FBLA advisers for being so supportive<br />
and helpful this year. I would like to give Mr. Bruner a personal “Thank You” for<br />
pushing me, keeping me on track, and believing so much in me this year. If it hadn’t<br />
been for him and my mother, I couldn’t have made it through the year.<br />
I will always remember my times at RHS and know that the experiences and opportunities that I was given have helped me prepare for the future. I will never forget and<br />
always take pride in having been a Bearcat and I look forward to seeing RHS continue the winning traditions. Future graduates of RHS - get involved so that you don’t look<br />
back and realize that your time here was “pointless.” I assure you, the more involved you are, the more fun you’ll have, and the more pride you’ll take in yourself as well as<br />
your school. FBLA and Chatterbox – stay the best!<br />
Farewell for the Summer… but I’ll be Back<br />
by Whitney Durrett<br />
Editor in Chief<br />
I have been a member of the Chatterbox family for 2 years now and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve learned how<br />
to write articles and deal with people throughout my 2 years in a way that can’t be learned anywhere else. This past<br />
year, I was the Editor in Chief, which means I was over everyone else in Chatterbox. This was not an easy job for me.<br />
I had some staff members older than me and some that weren’t even in the same class as me, which made it hard for<br />
things to be done right and on time. I was the first junior editor ever and felt like I could do the job just as well as any<br />
senior could.<br />
This year’s staff was an interesting group of people, to say the least. We had times when we hated each other and<br />
times when we were best friends, but at the end of the day we were still like a big family. I will greatly miss this group<br />
of people! Next year’s staff will be amazing but won’t be the same as this year’s. I will be back as the Editor in Chief<br />
next year and I’m hoping it will be a great year. I’m looking forward to another great year as a part of the Chatterbox<br />
staff!
S<br />
ponsors and Staff<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 27<br />
Chatterbox<br />
2011-<strong>2012</strong> Chatterbox Sponsors<br />
Platinum Level Sponsors: ($200 +)<br />
Mark and Donnie Bartlett John B. Holstead <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Alumni Association<br />
First National Bank Green Clinic Bank of <strong>Ruston</strong> Community Trust Bank<br />
Gold Level Sponsors: ($100 - $199)<br />
Jack Fluck Realty Embellishments Richard and Nancy Durrett<br />
RHS Business Department Lloyd R. Bruner, FBLA/Chatterbox Adviser RHS FBLA, Chapter 617<br />
Silver Level Sponsors: ($50 - $99)<br />
Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office McCarter Financial Group Danny Carroll Appraisal<br />
Robert Temple, Agent (State Farm) Tom Sumrall Joey and Juanita Coker Bert C. Hogg<br />
2011-<strong>2012</strong> Chatterbox Advertisers<br />
Business/Organization Owner/Manager/Contact Agent Page of Advertisement<br />
Driver’s Education Coach Ricky Durrett 14<br />
Lincoln ACHIEVE Cathi Cox-Boniol 15<br />
Hi-Tech Richard Raue 16<br />
Dr. Bob Rendina Bob Rendina 16<br />
Pow Wow Manuel and Nilda Chinchilla 17<br />
Village Market Manuel Chinchilla 17<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> PTA Julie Kyte 18<br />
The Fashion of <strong>Ruston</strong> Kelly Hogan 31<br />
Twisted Cow Frozen Yogurt Todd Feemster 31<br />
Please thank and support these businesses, organizations, and individuals for making your <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Chatterbox possible!<br />
With special thanks to Principal Mike Milstead for all his support!<br />
2011-<strong>2012</strong> RHS Chatterbox Staff<br />
Editor in Chief Whitney Durrett Junior<br />
Business Manager Elizabeth Smith Senior<br />
News Editor Jaisle Bailey Junior<br />
Sports Editor Reed Malek Senior<br />
Assistant News Editor Elena Till Junior<br />
Graphics/Design Editor Thirstan Cecil Sophomore<br />
Academics Reporter Polly Michelle Gwan Senior<br />
Academics Reporter Nathan Bennett Junior<br />
Arts Reporter Sarah Kay Blaylock Junior<br />
Clubs Reporter Moriah Labbe Junior<br />
Clubs Reporter Erin Maxson Junior<br />
Education Reporter Emma Jones Junior<br />
Social Reporter Preston Ponder Sophmore<br />
Sports Reporter Alex Cockerham Sophomore<br />
Sports Reporter Ambria Holmes Sophomore<br />
Guest Reporter Kori Teague Senior<br />
Adviser/Sponsor: Mr. Lloyd R. Bruner, chatterbox@lincolnschools.org<br />
The Chatterbox is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA).<br />
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<br />
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<br />
Hazelwood <strong>School</strong> District vs. Kulkmeier (1998). Signed editorials may be sent to <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, 900 Bearcat Drive, <strong>Ruston</strong>, Louisiana 71270.<br />
Access the current edition of the Chatterbox at: http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/whatsnew.html and archived editions at: http://rustonhigh.lincolnschools.org/chatterbox.html
S<br />
ports<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 28<br />
Track & Field Finishes Another Successful Year<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Editor<br />
The Bearcat track & field teams saw<br />
yet another great year in <strong>2012</strong>. On April<br />
27 th , the Bearcats took to the track at<br />
Lafayette <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> for the Regionals<br />
Championship for District 1-5A<br />
before their State meet on May 5 th .<br />
REGIONALS:<br />
Lady Bearcats who had top ten finishes<br />
were: Erin Goree (6 th ) in the 100-<br />
meter dash, Brandi Outley (3 rd ) in the<br />
200-meter dash, Hannah Siegmund<br />
(2 nd ) in the 400-meter dash, Maya<br />
Robertson (10 th ) in the 800 meter run,<br />
Adaiza Austin (4 th ) and Maya Robertson<br />
(8 th ) in the 1600-meter run, Morgan<br />
Winstead (8 th ) and Anna Hall (9 th ) in<br />
the 3200-meter run, Keke Wright (5 th )<br />
and Janay Peterson (9 th ) in the 100-<br />
meter hurdles, Zanecia Jackson (6 th )<br />
and Jamilla Jones (10 th ) in the 300-<br />
meter hurdles, Quanese Young (1 st ) and<br />
Savannah Webb (6 th ) in the high jump,<br />
Sara Jones (7 th ) in the pole vault,<br />
Quanese Young (8 th ) in the long jump<br />
and 7 th in the triple jump, Breanna Cooper<br />
(7 th ) in the shot put, and Kristen<br />
Clark (2 nd ) & Alli Brasuell (3 rd ) in the<br />
javelin throw.<br />
Bearcat guys who finished in the top<br />
ten at Regionals were: Vincent Elmore<br />
(8 th ) in the 100-meter dash and 10 th in<br />
the 400-meter dash, Dominique Cheffin<br />
(3 rd ) and Emmanuel Gwan (6 th ) in the<br />
800-meter run, Chase Millien (8 th ) and<br />
James Davison (9 th ) in the 1600-meter<br />
run, Chad Sims (7 th ) in the 300-meter<br />
hurdles, Devin Price (2 nd ) in the high<br />
jump, Devin Price (1 st ) in the long jump<br />
and 7 th in the triple jump, and Brandon<br />
Hearn (5 th ) in the javelin throw.<br />
STATE:<br />
The Bearcats saw three top ten finishes<br />
at State in the men’s category:<br />
Dominique Cheffin (7 th ) in the 800-<br />
meter run, Devin Price (4 th ) in the high<br />
jump and (7 th ) in the long jump.<br />
The Lady Bearcats had six top ten<br />
finishes at State: Brandi Outley (8 th ) in<br />
the 200-meter dash, Hannah Siegmund<br />
(3 rd ) in the 400-meter dash, Alli Brasuell<br />
(2 nd ) and Kristen Clark (4 th ) in the<br />
javelin throw, and one state champion:<br />
Quanese Young (1 st ) in the high jump.<br />
Cross Country Seniors Hit the Finish Line<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Editor<br />
Chase Millien and Maya Robertson with<br />
their Outstanding Senior Runner awards<br />
after the Hoss Garrett Relays.<br />
On Monday, November 14 th , the Bearcat Cross Country<br />
teams ended another fantastic season. Their hard work<br />
and dedication rival that of any school in the state. All<br />
cross country runners ran at 6 AM every day of the<br />
week except Sundays, not to mention practices at later<br />
times in the day.<br />
In early November, the Bearcats shined in their Regionals<br />
competition. The girls earned 1st place overall,<br />
and the boys came in 2nd.<br />
On November 5 th , the boys participated in a North<br />
Louisiana meet at Lakeside <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> against Loyola,<br />
Bearcat Swimming<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Incoming Sports Editor<br />
Choudrant, Calvary, Simsboro, and Lakeside high<br />
schools. The ’Cats occupied the 3rd, 4th, and 5th places<br />
with Chase Millien, Dominique Cheffin, and Emanuel<br />
Gwan, in that order.<br />
This year, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> cross country says goodbye<br />
to two seniors who have put <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>’s name on<br />
cross country news across the state for years: Maya<br />
Robertson and Chase Millien.<br />
“There’s so much stuff I could say,” says Chase.<br />
“I’ve learned so much. I’ve learned that Cross Country<br />
is so much more than just running.”<br />
As the year is coming to an end, our swimmers need to be recognized for having a great year!<br />
Our Bearcats participated in many meets this year and placed well in competition. At the Red River<br />
Conference, our Bearcat boys and the whole team placed second overall. At the LHSAA State<br />
Champs meet, the boys placed sixth overall with 171 points and the girls placed ninth overall with<br />
103 points. There were three all state swimmers this year: Madison Kaufman, Morgan Meyer, and<br />
Jake Kyte.<br />
Chase Borden, who is a senior, will be leaving <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> this year to attend Louisiana Tech<br />
next fall. The rest of the Bearcat swim team will return next year to practice in the old Louisiana<br />
Tech pool! Also a great job and kudos to Coach Paulette Crawford for coaching our students for<br />
another great season!<br />
Maya Robertson, another star Bearcat runner,<br />
shared Chase’s sentimental feelings for the past four<br />
years.<br />
“I’ve learned self discipline and that, if you put your<br />
mind and best effort into it, you can be successful. I<br />
have really enjoyed it.”<br />
Though RHS lost some great talent in this year’s<br />
senior class, there is just as much to look forward to<br />
next year.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Bearcat Swimmers for 2011-<strong>2012</strong>.
S<br />
ports<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 29<br />
RHS Soccer 2011-<strong>2012</strong><br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Incoming Sports Editor<br />
Both varsity and junior varsity soccer teams have done well this season! Many players will be<br />
returning, but some others are leaving <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> for good. Seniors Daniel Hale, Traci Evans,<br />
Garrett Mills, Marlin Rushing, Sam Wilson, Brenner Mabry, Ceylon Godfrey, Nicholas Liberatos,<br />
Daniel Nichols, Garielle Dupree, Daniella Alva, and Erin Otwell have graduated with the class of<br />
<strong>2012</strong>.<br />
The Boy’s Varsity team had seven wins this year out of eighteen games. The Girl’s Varsity team<br />
won eight games and lost fifteen. Helen Ayim and Traci Evans made first team all-district and Brittany<br />
Dowdy was named Honorable Mention. Helen Ayim also made first team All-Northeast.<br />
Daniel Hale and Daniel Nichols made first team All-District. Marlin Rushing, Sam Phillips, and<br />
Arturo Gonzales made second team All-District. Daniel Hale made first team All-Northeast and<br />
Daniel Nichols and Marlin Rushing made second team All-District. This year’s soccer team did an<br />
awesome job and a big thank you to Coach Walsh, Coach Whitlock, Coach Aulds and all the parents<br />
and participants in this year’s soccer teams! RHS Senior Soccer Players for 2011-<strong>2012</strong>.<br />
Bearcat Tennis<br />
by Elena Till<br />
Assistant News Editor<br />
On April 23-26, <strong>2012</strong>, the Bearcats participated in their Regional tournament. Six boys and six girls competed<br />
to win a victory for <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>. Matt Oakes and the doubles team of Hayden Smithey and Tristen Huff<br />
came back victorious. Unfortunately, no players qualified at state.<br />
This year the Bearcat tennis team is losing three fantastic tennis players: Kyle Carter, Mary Conly<br />
Hammons, and Abbie King graduated this year. Recently Kyle Carter, along with his doubles partner Jonathon<br />
Abernathy, won at Ouachita. This is only one accomplishment of many that these valuable seniors had while at<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. We will greatly miss these players, but we know that Bearcat tennis will be back even<br />
stronger next year.<br />
Junior Hayden Smithey swings at a ball.<br />
Boys’ Basketball 2011-<strong>2012</strong><br />
by Ambria Holmes<br />
Sports Reporter<br />
To prepare for the 2011-<strong>2012</strong> season, the boy’s basketball team participated in scrimmages on<br />
November 3 rd and 10 th . The Bearcats held their Jamboree on November 17 th to kick off the season.<br />
Their first tournament was at Grambling on November 21 st -23 rd . On November 29, 2011, the boy’s<br />
basketball team played in their first official game against Gibsland. Their next games were against<br />
Arcadia and Winnfield; the Bearcats came out with a victory against both teams: <strong>Ruston</strong> 54 over<br />
Arcadia’s 32 points and Bearcats 60 over Winnfield’s 42. The team continued to work hard as they<br />
moved towards their district games on Tuesday, January 17 th . Their last district game was on January<br />
27 th . The Bearcats’ last game was against Ouachita on February 13, <strong>2012</strong>.<br />
The boy ended the season with a winning record. As is the case every year, the teams said goodbye<br />
to seniors. This year’s seniors were Coop and Rasheed Wallace. The team is ready for next<br />
year’s season and has been practicing hard to ensure it is another successful year. On next year’s<br />
team, there will be new talents and Bush expects a lot from both returning and new players. No<br />
doubt, Bearcat basketball will be back and Bush’s Boys will be there providing the same high energy<br />
support RHS has come to expect.<br />
Jamaya Burr defends against a Winnfield Tiger.
S<br />
ports<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 30<br />
Bearcat Baseball Falls to Jesuit in Second Round of Playoffs<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Editor<br />
On Tuesday, May 7 th , <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>’s Bearcat baseball<br />
team saw its season end at the hands of the Jesuit Blue<br />
Jays in a 2-1 walk-off victory.<br />
After a 4-3 first-round victory over the West Monroe<br />
Rebels on May 2 nd , the Bearcats hit the diamond at Jesuit’s<br />
John Ryan Stadium in New Orleans with high<br />
hopes. After a speedy seven-and-a-half innings, the<br />
Bearcats found themselves up 1-0 and in position to advance<br />
to the state tournament at Tulane University for<br />
the second straight year.<br />
A Blue Jay single to center and a Bearcat error resulted<br />
in a man on second base, who quickly scored on a<br />
subsequent single to right-center. A passed ball and a<br />
sacrifice bunt landed the runner on third base with the<br />
game tied 1-1, when Jesuit first baseman Dylan Weston<br />
came to the plate and hit in the winning run with a single<br />
over first base.<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>’s loss to Jesuit crushed the Bearcats’<br />
hopes of returning to the state championship tournament,<br />
but let it not deflect from the fact that the ‘Cats had an<br />
incredibly successful season, especially considering that<br />
this was the team’s transition year from district 4A to<br />
5A, the toughest in the state.<br />
Having finished the year as champions of a district to<br />
which they were new, and holding a 25-10 overall record,<br />
the Bearcats can rest easy knowing that this season<br />
was a success, regardless of the end result.<br />
Junior, BJ Findley said this about the end of the season,<br />
“It was a great year. I had fun with all my teammates<br />
and I’ll miss all the seniors greatly. Good luck in<br />
the future!”<br />
Clayton Cline (left) tags a Blue Jay out at third base during the Bearcats’<br />
second-round playoff loss to Jesuit<br />
A Bearcat baseball player slides into second base during the Bearcats’ 14-13<br />
loss to West Monroe on April 5.<br />
Senior Clayton Cline hurls a pitch in a home first-round playoff game<br />
against West Monroe on May 2. The Bearcats defeated the Rebels 4-3<br />
on a walk-off hit by Eric Goree.<br />
Junior shortstop Lain Kranz (left) avoids the slide of a Jesuit player during<br />
the Bearcats’ 2-1 defeat at the hands of the Blue Jays on Monday, May 7.<br />
The ‘Cats (25-10) lost to the Blue Jays (26-7) on a walk-off single in the<br />
bottom of the seventh inning.
S<br />
ports<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 31<br />
Bearcat Football Finishes 8-5, Reaches Third Round of Playoffs<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Editor<br />
It had been over a decade since Bearcat fans were<br />
able to watch their team play on Thanksgiving week.<br />
After a twelve year drought of reaching the third round<br />
of the LHSAA playoffs, the Bearcats suited up and traveled<br />
to Mandeville, Louisiana to play the Skippers on<br />
November 25 th . The ‘Cats were defeated 26-0, ending<br />
their surprisingly successful season—one that put pride<br />
and passion unseen since 1999 into the hearts of Bearcat<br />
fans.<br />
Coming out of their first game, a 42-6 throttling by<br />
the Neville Tigers, things did not look very promising<br />
for the Bearcats. However, they followed up with a winloss<br />
pair of games, a pattern that appeared thrice over<br />
the next three games. This roller coaster regular season<br />
ended with two dominating victories over Natchitoches<br />
Central and Pineville, leading the Bearcats into the playoffs.<br />
The ‘Cats handily defeated their first opponent,<br />
Denham Springs, then headed to Baton Rouge to quell a<br />
Cinderella story in the Central Baton Rouge Wildcats.<br />
Though the Bearcats’ next game turned out to be<br />
their last, this season will hardly be forgotten by those<br />
who lived through it. The ‘Cats took the Bearcat Nation<br />
on a ride it has not seen in quite some time. After the<br />
first few games, not many fans would have expected a<br />
post-Thanksgiving ending to the Bearcats’ season; but<br />
The 2011-<strong>2012</strong> Bearcat Football Seniors<br />
by Reed Malek<br />
Sports Editor<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>’s senior class of <strong>2012</strong> included a very successful, hard-working group of football players. During<br />
the class of <strong>2012</strong>’s four years at <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, the Varsity football team had a fantastic record of 30-17.<br />
The following players are, top row first, from left to right: Markquez Littleton, Auldon Winn, Justin Miller, Joseph<br />
Brunson, Cyril Noland, Cody Henry, Garner Wagner, Eric Goree, Jimetrius Adams, Braden Hilton, Darrlyn<br />
Lee, Brandon Hearn, Conner Haskins, videographer Brandon Myers and trainer John Cullen Hammons, David Hernandez,<br />
Jacob Clark, Garrett Haight, Matthew Brewer, Brody Sullivan, Pierce Spangler, Kentrell Brice, Nick Letendre,<br />
Bobby James, Deonte Satcher, Jujuan Peterson, Roderick Long, Jhafery Clemons, and Ryan Burton.<br />
the team proved them wrong. They played their hearts<br />
out to finish the season, refusing to give up when giving<br />
up seemed easy.
S<br />
ports<br />
Chatterbox<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>June</strong> 7, <strong>2012</strong> Page 32<br />
Bearcat Belles<br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Incoming Sports Editor<br />
This year, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong>’s Bearcat Belles spent a lot of time out and in state competing against other dance<br />
lines. On December 3, 2011, our RHS Belles went to LHSAA Cheer and Dance Competition down in Lake<br />
Charles, Louisiana. The dance line participated in the hip-hop dance category and won second place with a<br />
score of 325.5.<br />
On March 4, <strong>2012</strong>, the Belles competed for the first time in the National Dance Alliance Championships.<br />
They flew out to Orlando, Florida to compete against hundreds of teams from all over the country. The<br />
Belles placed sixth overall in the Small Hip-Hop Competition. The girls on the competition team were:<br />
Megan Franks, Maegan Goss, Emily Hearne, Brittany Kelly, Lauren Jenkins, Eva Edinger, Ebony Wright,<br />
Avery Woodard, Ashlyn Thompson, Marley Ratcliff, and DeNinia Melton. Ashlyn Thompson, Maegan<br />
Goss, Molly Humphries were all seniors this year and have graduated with the class of <strong>2012</strong>! We will miss<br />
them dearly!<br />
National Champion Cheerleaders<br />
A Recap of 2011-<strong>2012</strong><br />
by Erin Maxson<br />
Incoming Sports Editor<br />
RHS Bearcat Belles for 2011-<strong>2012</strong>.<br />
This past year, our <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> Cheerleaders made us very proud for another year! They participated in<br />
many competitions and came out on top more than once. RHS cheerleaders went to Lake Charles to compete<br />
in the LHSAA Cheer Competition and won. After State Competition, the cheerleaders continued on to Nationals<br />
in Dallas, Texas, and won the Game Time Division which consisted of three events: Timeout Cheer,<br />
Timeout Dance, and Fight Song. This is their second year to come out with a National Championship.<br />
Seniors Morgan Stanley, Brooke Frasier, Taylor Hogan, Anna Fuller, and Carrie Wilson graduated with<br />
this year’s <strong>2012</strong> class and will be dearly missed next year and the years to come! Also, Anna Fuller tried out<br />
and is now one of Louisiana Tech’s very own cheerleaders! Congrats Anna! Thank you and great job to Mrs.<br />
Heather Reeder for sponsoring our lovely cheerleaders! We feel sure that our cheerleaders will have another<br />
fantastic year in <strong>2012</strong>-2013.<br />
2011-<strong>2012</strong> Homecoming Senior Maids and Queen<br />
by Jaisle Bailey<br />
News Editor<br />
NCA <strong>2012</strong> Champion Cheerleaders<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
On Friday, October 14, 2011, <strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> held a Homecoming assembly to introduce the 2011-<strong>2012</strong> homecoming court. The bleachers were filled with students and<br />
<strong>Ruston</strong> <strong>High</strong> alumni who were there to watch the maids and queen take their places on the stage. Senior maids included Traci Evans, Te-Air Douglas, and Morgan Stanley.<br />
Shelby Giddings was the Senior Maid of Honor. The title of 2011-<strong>2012</strong> Homecoming queen went to Miyata Bridges. The Bearcat Belles danced for the court and the <strong>Ruston</strong><br />
<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> choir serenaded the girls with two songs.
Change language