Chatterbox - Ruston High...

Chatterbox August 27, 2009

Box Tops

Chatterbox

staff (2-4)

Meet the

Admin (5)

Academia (6-

7)

Clubs (8-10)

Sports (11-12)

Editorials (13-

15)

Coming Soon!

(16)

I am looking forward to a great 2009-10 school year. We have added more AP classes, more dual classes, more STEM classes, and are in the planning for a new tech high school, hopefully to be implemented at the beginning of the 2010-11 school year. Also, we are adding the LHSAA-sanctioned sport of swimming. Principals and teachers from throughout the parish including Ruston High have attended workshops and participated in self-improvement activities. I really feel that Ruston High School is second to no one in what is offered both in our curricu-lar and extra-curricular activities. With the beginning of this school year, RHS will offer over 50 hours of dual credit—high school and college credit for our students. I don’t know of another school in the state that offers that wide a range of classes to their students. There are a couple of changes of which parents and students need to be aware. (1) The school day has been lengthened by 12 minutes. School will dismiss at 3:20 instead of 3:08. An additional two minutes will be added to each period and 1 minute subtracted from each lunch shift. This will allow more faculty develop-ment days and school will dismiss earlier—May 25, 2010. (2) Sandals worn by stu-dents should be close-toed. Our football jamboree has been moved to Ruston. The “Jam at the Joe” will

occur on Friday, August 28th at Louisiana Tech’s Joe Aillet Stadium. I am looking

forward to a great “Bearcat” year.

Hello Bearcats. Welcome to the new version of the Chatterbox! First thing’s first – on behalf of Mr. Bruner and the entire Chatterbox staff, I would like to thank Mrs. Bradford for her past leadership over the paper. She was an invaluable asset to the Chatterbox in years past, and did an excel-lent job overseeing it. Her contributions to the paper did not go unnoticed, and are greatly appreciated by everyone. Assuming new leadership over the paper this year is Mr. Bruner. You may recognize him as the chief adviser of Ruston’s FBLA chapter, but this year he has also decided to take on the daunting task of running the Chatterbox and making sure procrastination-prone editors (such as myself) are on the ball with their assignments. This is a new era for the Chatterbox, and I have no doubt that the paper will prosper under his pro-fessionalism and leadership. Obviously, this is the first edition of the new paper; we are “getting our feet wet” with this issue, so to speak. As the staff learns more throughout the year we hope that each new issue

will exceed the previous one in quality and content. As you can see, many changes have been made to the physical product itself. It was decided that this year the school newspaper should resemble an actual newspaper, and for this, the Chatterbox has struck up a part-nership with The Ruston Daily Leader. The Leader staff has agreed to publish the Chat-terbox throughout the year for us, and we owe them our gratitude and our thanks in taking the time to assist us in this undertak-ing. A new edition of the Chatterbox will be published monthly, and a special June edi-tion following graduation will also be pub-lished. Various topics and goings – on of the school will be covered throughout the year. These include (but certainly are not limited to) Senior Spotlights, articles written in the foreign languages offered at Ruston High, Freshman Academy news, a new RHS comic strip, current movie reviews from Logan and myself , and various shout-outs to whom

ever has helped make Ruston High a better school for us all. Also, each edition will fea-ture interviews with all faculty members of a certain department – for example, one issue will focus on the English teachers, one on the Math teachers, etc. Throughout the year, we will report on all things extra-curricular here at RHS. This includes all sports, organizations, and clubs officially endorsed by RHS. As such, if you are the adviser of a club and you wish to bring to light anything about the club in the paper, please inform Mr. Bruner or a mem-ber of the Chatterbox staff. There will likely be events that a club participates in that we are unaware of; in instances such as this it is imperative that an adviser informs us of the club’s activities, if he or she wishes the in-formation to be published. It’s also worth noting that advisers and/or members of clubs are free to write these articles as well. The Chatterbox staff en-courages others to submit articles– this is a paper about Bearcats, for Bearcats. Thus,

if a student or a teacher desires to submit content – such as a poem, short story, opin-ion piece, or editorial – he or she is more than welcomed to do so. We want you to feel free to express yourself, and the Chat-terbox is a great way to do just that. If there is something you want to say, don’t be shy! Arrange a meeting with Mr. Bruner if you wish to have your piece published. (Alternately, you can send your suggestions or ideas to [email protected]). Keep in mind, however, that we do not guarantee that what you submit will get published. There simply may not be room for it, and pieces will not be published if they are threatening, inappropriate, etc. What we can guarantee is that every sub-mitted piece will be actively considered for placement in the Chatterbox. With all that out of the way, Mr. Bruner and the entire Chatterbox staff are excited about and are looking forward to bringing the news to all you Bearcats this year. Enjoy the new paper!

The New Chatterbox! By Drew Boyd

News Editor

Another Great Year

Submitted by Mike Milstead

Principal

Meet The Press August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Anna Garland Grade/ Age: Senior– 17

Family: Mom and Dad, 2 sisters,

and nieces and nephew

Hobbies: Hanging out with

friends, Road trips

Favorite subject: English

Favorite movie: Big Daddy

Favorite Animal: Elephants

Favorite color: Blue

Clubs: FCCLA, FBLA, BUMS

Hero: Willie Nelson and Bob

Dylan

College/ major: University of Ar-

kansas– Journalism

Quote: ―You can’t make people

love you, but you can make them

fear you.‖

Advice: Always go with your gut

feeling because 9 times out of 10,

its right. And learn from your mis-

takes.

Most Embarrassing moment: I

went tubing and I fell off and lost

my bottoms.

Sara Kilpatrick Grade/ Age: Senior– 17

Family: Mom-Karen Kilpatrick

Dad-Kevin Kilpatrick ,Siblings-

Christopher and Britton and sis-

ter-in-law Jennifer Kilpatrick

Hobbies: : I love to babysit, and

spend time with my friends and

family.


Favorite color: Pink

Favorite movie: All of the Pi-

rates of the Caribbean movies

and A Knights Tale with Heath

Ledger!

Most Embarrassing moment:

The day I discovered that it is

indeed possible to fall up the

stairs.

Favorite Animal: Giraffes

Clubs: Bearcat Band, LYFE

(formerly known as GPA), Na-

tional Honors Society, Spanish

Club, and FBLA

College/ major: Louisiana

Tech-Education and Journalism

Quote: ―Be the change you

want to see in the world‖

-Gandhi

Devin Easley Grade/ Age: Senior– 18

Family: Mom and Dad, 2 dogs: L.E.

and D.J.

Hobbies: Tennis, Jewelry

making, Shopping

Favorite subject: Math,

Science

Favorite movie: Alien vs. Predator,

A Walk to Remember, Transformers


I tripped up the front steps, the first

day of Freshmen Year

Favorite Animal: Horses

Favorite color: Hot Pink

Clubs: BUMS, Diamond Girls,

FBLA, Spanish Club, Science Club

College/ major: Louisiana Tech–

Nursing or Computers

Quote: ―The brave might not live

forever, but the cautious don’t live at

all.‖

Advice: Don’t wish high school

away...It already goes by too fast.


Chatterbox

Seth Bentley Grade/ Age: Senior– 17

Family: Sharon (Mom), Wesley

(Dad) and Zachary (little brother)

Hobbies: Anything not involving

hard work.

Favorite subject: English,

German

Favorite movie: Broken Blossoms

Favorite Animal: Spiders

Favorite color: Purple

Clubs: German Club, FBLA

Favorite Book: The Elements of

Style, just for sheer utility.

Quote: ―If you fear nothing, you

love nothing. If you love nothing,

what joy can there be in life?‖

College/Major: LSU– English

Advice: Don’t follow my advice.

Most Embarrassing moment: I

went tubing and I fell off and lost

my bottoms.

Stephany Arias Grade/ Age: Junior– 17

Family: Milagro, Steve Pyle,

sister, son

Hobbies: Dancing, TV, Shop-

ping

Favorite movie: Scary

Favorite Animal: Elephants

Favorite color: Violet

Clubs: Spanish Club, FBLA,

BUMS

College/ major: Tech

-Psychology and Business

Hero: My Mom

What do u like best about

Ruston High? Pep Rallies

Quote: ―If you do not hope,

you will not find what is beyond

your hopes.

Advice: It’s never to late to

accomplish a dream, so keep

dreaming and keep working

hard.

Amber Brown Grade/ Age: Junior– 15

Family: Grandmamma, sister

Julie and brother Trevor

Hobbies: Photography, Poetry,

Reading, Music, Writing, and

most important, my Friends!


Favorite movie: P.S. I love You

Favorite Animal: Zebra

Favorite color: Neon Yellow

Clubs: FBLA

College/ major: University of

Arkansas– Journalism

Hero: My Grandpapa and my

sister

Quote: ―This above all, to thine

own self be true.‖ -Shakespeare

Advice: Stay strong and Don’t

ever give up! Things will always

get better!


Accidently hitting a lunch lady

Jessica Herren Grade/ Age: Senior– 17

Family: Kevin and Sheri

Herren and John (Freshman)

Hobbies: Cake decorating and

Baking cookies

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite movie: 7 Pounds

Favorite Animal: Penguins

Favorite color: Aqua Blue

Clubs: PYPM, FBLA,

Keywannets, Spanish Club,

National Honor Society

College/ major: Mississippi

College- Nursing or Education

Hero: Superman! Duh!

Quote: ―God’s will for your life

is what you would want for

yourself if you knew what He

knows.‖


My mom yelled at me in front

of the band sophomore year.

Advice: Be yourself!


Chatterbox

Logan Taylor– Senior Editor Grade/ Age: Senior– 17

I’m not really sure if there is a need for me to do this article consider-

ing how everyone reading this will be groaning, ―Ahh crud! I remember

that guy from last year. They haven’t fired him yet because he thinks he is

way funnier than he actually is?‖ Sadly, I am the only returning member

of Chatterbox from last year, but I won’t

be gracing this year’s paper as an incredi-

bly handsome and congenial reporter.

No, this year I will be the Grand Puba,

the big cheese, the Mastermind of the

entire operation, or what have you. I am the

Senior Editor. ―What does that position

entail?‖ you might ask. All it means is

I sit in a fancy desk with a fake cigar and

bark orders at my news editor.

Well, in case you don’t already know

who I am and are wondering who is control-

ling the influx of news that you receive

every month, I’ll tell you a little bit about

myself. In terms of hobbies I usually spend

my time drawing, playing videogames or

golf, and vegetat- ing in my cushioned bowl

chair. I also consider myself a big movie

buff and I love to analyze movies as well,

which is why there will be a movie review article starting next issue. I am

a pretty social creature as most of my teachers will attest, and I’m usually

a bit on the goofy side of the spectrum. My favorite food is gumbo by far

because I expect a party in my mouth every time I eat. I am not a very

complicated person, but I do like to overcomplicate everything else.

However, I feel I am starting to ramble, but I want you all to know that

I am going to do my best as Senior Editor of Chatterbox. Your school

dollars are hard at work to make the school paper more new, awesome,

and funky fresh than it has ever been. If you want specifics, read Drew

Boyd’s Chatterbox intro article…or don’t. That works too.

Drew Boyd– News Editor Grade/ Age: Senior– 17

Hello Bearcats! This is your News Editor, Drew Boyd. I cannot wait to

get this year underway, as I have many things to look forward to. Needless

to say, I will greatly enjoy being a writer/editor for the Chatterbox. I con-

sider writing a personal strength of mine academically (especially when one

compares my Eng- lish grades with my

Math grades, from any year – trust me, it’s

frightening). Be- cause of this, I have

chosen a career path that I believe I

will excel at and enjoy – being a jour-

nalist. It is a personal dream of mine to

be a columnist for a technology or music

magazine. I believe working on the

Chatterbox will provide me with an

excellent amount of starting experience

in the field of journalism, and I hope to

use this experience to further push myself

down my chosen career path. I will also

be taking up the reins as FBLA’s Presi-

dent this year. I look forward to the fun

we will have at District and State, and

am excited about the new heights the

club will ascend to this year. I suppose that’s enough about me...the real purpose of the Chatterbox is

to highlight you – you, the student who placed first in the science fair, you,

the star of the football team who’s touchdown guaranteed victory, or you,

the skilled debater or singer who consistently excels in competitions. This

is a paper about you, the student, and all that you can and will accomplish

this year at Ruston High. As one of the editors, I am honored to do my part

in ensuring that the Chatterbox succeeds in being an accurate and enjoyable

way in keeping the student body up-to-date with everything Bearcat. I look

forward to working on the paper, and I hope you look forward to reading it.

Christian Amos– Sports Editor Grade/ Age: Junior– 17

Hello students, sponsors, and other readers. My name is Christian J. Amos, and I am the 2009-2010 Sports Editor for the Ruston

High School Chatterbox. Here is a small bit about me. I am the son of Jeanette and James Amos. My hobbies consist of listening

to music, playing music, and writing. Every morning I have to listen to my classical, or I am in a bad mood all day. I am cur-

rently a part of the Bearcat Marching Band, where I serve as a section leader. I am a member of the Future Business Leaders of

America (FBLA). Last year at District Conference I ranked superior in both Introduction to Business and Marketing. What I like

most about Ruston High is the history collected within these walls, and my favorite subject would have to be English. After high

school I would like to attend the Missouri School of Journalism. I plan to take up a career in either Journalism or Mass Commu-

nications.

My favorite quote of all time would have to be by Friedrich Nietzsche: ―Without music, life would be a mistake.‖ Some of my

favorite literature includes West Side Story, The New Yorker, and the Seattle Times. Some advice I would give to my readers

would be to write your thoughts down, as it’s a good way to help ease stress. I am looking forward to working on the new and

improved Chatterbox, and I look forward to hearing your comments on my articles and reading your submissions.

Meet The Administrators August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Name: Mike Milstead

Family: Wife, son, and daughter

Pets: Dog

Favorite Subject: Civics/American History

Position at RHS: Principal

High School: Weston High School, 1967

College/Major: Tech, Bachelor's and two Master's degrees

Teaching Experience: 39 years

Favorite Restaurant: Waterfront Grill

Favorite Childhood Memory: Wonderful parents

Favorite Sport: All sports

Favorite Quote: "What's in front of you and what's behind

you aren’t nearly as important as what's inside you."

If you had on wish, it would be... That RHS excel in all

of its pursuits.

Favorite thing about RHS: The students

Pet Peeves: Disrespect

Final words to students: I love RHS.

Name: Rick Edward Cason

Family: Susan (wife), Julie (daughter,

Daniel (son), Laura (daughter), David

(son)

Pets: 3 dogs and 2 cats

Favorite Subject: History

Position: Assistant principal

High School: Ruston High, 1975

College/Major: Tech, Sociology, Health/

PE and Education


Most Embarrassing Moment: Too many

to count.

Favorite Restaurant: The Bistro

Favorite Childhood Memory: Fishing

with Dad

Favorite team: Indianapolis Colts

Favorite Quote: ―If you aim at nothing,

you’ll never miss.‖

If you had one wish, it would be… That

RHS students reach their fullest potential.

Favorite thing about RHS: The traditions

Pet Peeves: Whining

Message to students: I’m on your side

and remember that everything counts.

Name: Larry Darnell Lewis

Favorite Subject: Business

Position at RHS: Assistant Princi-

pal/11th grade disciplinarian

High School: Grambling High School,

1975

College/Major: Grambling State, Busi-

ness and Counseling and Education


Favorite Restaurant: Anywhere with

good food

Favorite Childhood Memory: Fishing

with grandparents

Favorite Sport: Basketball

If you had one wish, it would be...

That I have a positive influence on the

students here.

Favorite thing about RHS: The diver-

sity of the curriculum

Final message to students: I believe

that there is a way that things should be

done and those that know me under-

stand me.

Name: Pam Pruden

Family: Jeff (husband), John (son), and

Jackson (son)

Pets: Woodrow (dog) Twig (turtle)

Favorite Subject: Science

Your Position at RHS: Freshman Coordi-

nator

High School: Sam Houston High

College Major: Ag Education


Favorite Restaurant: Roy’s Pege

Favorite Childhood Memory: Christmas

mornings

Favorite Team/Sport: Bearcats

Favorite Quote: ―Anytime you see a

turtle on a fencepost, you know it had

help.‖

If you had one wish it would be… To see

my children be happy.

Favorite thing about RHS: Students

Pet peeves: Litter

Message to students: I’m very easy to get

along with. (Note from Drew: This is

indeed true. Mrs. Pruden rocks.)

Name: David M. Crowe

Family: Married

Pets: Callie

Favorite Subject: English

Your Position at RHS: Assistant Principal

High School: Ruston High School in 1971

College/Major: La Tech University


Most Embarrassing Moment: My favorite cartoon

was Popeye the sailor man. I thought I could do what

he did by eating a can of spinach.

Favorite Childhood Memory: I wanted to be Super-

man.

Favorite Sports Team: LA Lakers for Basketball

Favorite Quote: ―He who thinks by the inch and

talks by the yard deserves to be kicked by the foot.‖

If you had one wish, it would be…I wish everyone

would be optimistic about life.

Favorite thing about RHS: The great faculty and

student body.

Message to students: I am very concerned about

every student’s future, and that money and material

things can be replaced, and time cannot, so spend

your time wisely.

Academia August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Dress Code Changes by Anna Garland

Reporter

This year at Ruston High we have a few new changes to our dress code. First of all, hoodies and sweatshirts can now be worn as a uni-

form shirt. Under-shirts for your polos must be a solid red, white, black, or grey. Also, we need to realize summer has come to an end so

go ahead and put those flip flops and other open-toed shoes at the back of your closet. And you might as well put those crazy socks you

collected away as well because from now on socks must be a solid color. But hey, every cloud has a silver lining…there’s always crazy

sock day for those of you who are too upset!

Band Camp, Bearcat

Style by Sarah Kilpatrick

Business Manager

The RHS fight song rings out as this year’s

drum majors, Megan Huckaby and Joel Gwan, lead

the band down the field. The twenty-five freshmen

and returning members give RHS almost 100 band

members- one of the largest bands Ruston High has

ever had. With school just around the corner, the

band began to get pumped up for the 2009-2010

school year with two weeks of band camp. From

morning until night each day, band members both

old and new were taught to march, play, and act like

a Bearcat. Can you imagine a football game with no

music? No fight song…No Alma Mater…No Star-

Spangled Banner? I can’t. I admit that as a band

member I may be slightly biased, but what would

games and pep rallies be like without the band? The

band was whipped into shape not only by the band

director, Mr. Walter Moss, but by the new assistant

band director Mr. Randal Woods. The flag line was

taught to amaze by flag captains Courtney Williams

and Ms. Huckaby. Now, don’t be mistaken, camp

was not all work and no play. Each evening the

Bearcat Band got a chance to have fun together with

movies, swimming, and video games. Band camp

was finally brought to a close with a showoff. The

band marched the pregame show and also performed

several fun tunes for the crowd. Band camp was a

huge success, and the band is looking forward to a

great year at Ruston High.

Band “Rains” Over Texas by Christian Amos

Sports Editor

On May 15, 2009 during 2nd hour we loaded up the travel bus and headed for

the Big Tex. Students Paul Hinton, Cody Briscoe, Sebastian Piscottia and others

went for a run, not a walk, through the strange Texas woods. Adventure! As we

entered Dallas we admired the sights and the buildings and of course the jets flying

above us. The first major stop in Texas was at the Galleria. The highlight of the

Mall trip was the ice skating. Yes, we all like to shop and spend money, but who

would give up the chance to see people fall flat on their behinds? Unfortunately

no one got to see Mr. Moss fall flat on HIS behind, because he was the best skater

out there. I guess if one has been skating in the Dallas Galleria since one was in

diapers one would pick up a few tricks. So mall time came to a close but next on

the agenda was the infamous Medieval Times.

After waiting, browsing, and buying we were finally let into the arena to view

the show. For those unfamiliar with Medieval Times, the viewers are separated

into groups by a color. I so happened to be a fan of the black-and-white knight.

So the show began and the food was served. On the menu that Friday night was

dragon meat (chicken), dragon’s blood (tomato bisque), a dragon egg (baked po-

tato), a breadstick, and for dessert… pigeon droppings (a pastry). The knights

fought, the king ruled and the princess cried, but most important was the victory of

the black-and-white knight. Our night ended with a victory (pun intended) and we

headed to the hotel and checked in. After an exciting day the band members and

chaperones needed a good night’s rest.

The next morning everyone got ready for Six Flags. Everyone dressed for a day

of Texas sun but what we got was a Louisiana turnaround. Despite the cold Texas

rain some members of the band stood in long lines at Six Flags to ride their favor-

ite rides. (To be honest the rain wasn’t all that bad.) During the sprinkle of showers

I rode the Batman and the rain drops were painful against my face but it was all

worth it. Even though most of us hated the rain and some rides were closed down,

I think the rain made the rides more heart pounding. Overall I really enjoyed the

trip, and it makes me excited to think about the fun we will have on the trip we

will take next year.

Academia August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Freshman Academy- Day 1 by Anna Garland

Reporter

On Friday, August 14th, the class of 2013 was ushered into

the auditorium for their first day of high school. Ambassadors

and teachers were there to help direct the students to their

classes. Before they went through their actual schedule, the

freshman went through a ―club tour‖ to see all the different

clubs Ruston High has to offer while munching on some deli-

cious cookies. The students then headed back to the auditorium

to hear Mr. Milstead introduce them to Ruston High. Before

going through their brief schedule, the freshmen were given a

quick speech about schedule changes and the handbook rules.

After the freshmen went through a mini schedule, going to each

class for ten minutes, they headed to the gym for the Pep Rally!

Mrs. Reeder explained to the freshmen the tradition of Ruston

High Pep Rallies and what is considered appropriate behavior.

The students then learned our Alma Mater and fight song, and

the Cheerleaders taught the class of 2013 a freshman battle cry.

As the day drew to a close, the Bearcat Belles gave a magnifi-

cent performance which ended Freshmen Orientation Day in

style.

Various and Sundry by Seth Bentley

Reporter

Good news, loyal readers! September 7th - 9th is a mini holiday,

and will provide students with a five day weekend! Our hardworking

teachers will be attending ―Faculty Workshops on Comprehensive

Curriculum.‖ I won’t question providence, but one has to wonder just

what goes on during these workshops. Dark rites of education? Ar-

cane ceremonies best left forgotten? Valid theories, certainly. Or they

might just talk about teaching…who knows. Aside from that, our

Open House is on September 17th. So, if your parents have been bug-

ging you about school, this will be a most effective way to appease

them. Godspeed, bearcats. Godspeed.

2009 Art Contest by Amber Brown

Reporter/Photographer

The Louisiana Department of Education is

working with the Louisiana Developmental

Disabilities Council and many other organiza-

tions to help promote disability/inclusive edu-

cation awareness with a visual art contest. The

contest is open to all students, in all schools, in

grades Pre-K through 12. I encourage everyone

who would like to participate to do so. All en-

tries are due to the Louisiana Developmental

Disabilities Council no later than 3:00 p.m. on

October 5, 2009. If you have any questions,

you can go to the LDDC website, http://

www.laddc.org.

Artwork Criteria:

All entries must be ready to hang or frame

and fit standard frame sizes-minimum 9X12

and maximum 22X28. Entries smaller or larger

will NOT be considered.

Any suitable materials or a computer gen-

erated design may be utilized.

Package artwork entries so that they are

easy to carry, transport, and display.

Place the right amount for postage on your

package if you are mailing it. The council

states they won’t pay postage that is due on

parcels.

Students, you may work in groups for your

projects, but they are limited to a maximum of

5 people. A list of all artists’ names and

schools may be attached to artwork but each

student must provide a signed registration

form. By sending in your artwork, you give the

DD Council permission to use your art in sup-

port of the contest theme. Winners and their

family may be photographed during the awards

ceremony. The registration form requires

signed consent to photograph contestants for

the purpose of promotion of the art contest.

Winning art may also be used as prize mate-

rial, distributed, and not returned to the artist.

Artwork not selected as winners may be picked

up in November, after the contest has been

judged. The art not picked up by November

30, 2009 will remain the property of the Coun-

cil, until you schedule your pick-up with the

council office.

If you have any other questions, comments, or

concerns contact Robbie Gray at Rob-

[email protected].

mailto:[email protected]


Clubs August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Ace of Clubs By Stephany Arias

Reporter

Did you know that Ruston High School has more than 25 different clubs and organizations? We would like you to enroll in any of these en-

joyable clubs. It would be a great opportunity for you to get to know other students and to explore new horizons. This New Year will bring us

joy and memories that we will never forget. So let’s start this 2009 – 2010 school year with the best we can put forth – find something you en-

joy, and get involved! GO BEARCATS!

Ruston FFA Wins 6 State Championships and 9 Area Titles By Mr. Mark Milstead, FFA Adviser

The Ruston High School FFA chapter finished up the 2008-2009 year this summer at the Louisiana State FFA Convention in Monroe, Louisi-

ana. Ruston High School's FFA Chapter was recognized for several team and chapter awards. Josh Brasseal and Jake Haddox were recognized

for being State Champions in the Small Engines Career Development Event (CDE). Both students received scholarships from Universal Tech-

nical Institute for their accomplishments. The Dairy Foods team of Whitney Bullock, Holden Rose, Adam Reid, and Michael Sutton also were

named State Champions in their event and will compete in October at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana representing the

state of Louisiana. Savanah Knight was named State Champion in the Job Interview CDE and will also compete at the National FFA Conven-

tion representing Louisiana.

Three other FFA students won State Titles in their Proficiency Award areas. Cole Crowder won the Diversified Agriculture Placement

Award. Cameron Caldwell won the Agriculture Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Proficiency Award. Austin Caldwell also won the Agricul-

ture Mechanics Energy Systems Proficiency Award. All three students received cash awards of $350. These students also placed Bronze at the

National level.

Ruston FFA members also won 9 other Area 1 competitions including Dairy Cattle Evaluation, General Livestock Evaluation, Small En-

gines, Floriculture, Prepared Public Speaking, Geaux Teach Agriculture, FFA Creed Speaking, Gulf of Mexico Speaking, and Job Interview.

Ruston FFA also had teams that placed in the top 4 at Area 1 competitions and went on to complete at the State level. These included teams and

individuals in Forestry, Extemporaneous Speaking, Meat Evaluation, Welding, Nursery/Landscape, Poultry, Dairy Foods, and Electricity. The

Meat Evaluation Team also was named the State's Runner Up with team members Jim Liberatos, Nick Liberatos, Bradley Caraway, and Walker

Taylor.

Congratulations to all Ruston High School FFA members on an outstanding year last year and good luck in the coming school year!

Savanah Knight

State Champion Whitney Bullock, Holden Rose,

Adam Reid, and Michael Sutton.

State Champions Josh Brasseal and Jake Haddox

State Champions

Walker Taylor, Bradley Caraway,

Nick Liberatos, and Jim Liberatos.

State Champions


ChatterBox

4-H: Making the Best Better at RHS! submitted by: Mrs. Alisia Thomason

4-H Advisor

We want you to help us ―make the best better‖! The Ruston High 4-H Club is a group of young people who want to use their heads,

hearts, hands, and health to become the best they can be and to make a difference in the world in which they live. 4-H is focused on projects,

activities, and events that help youth grow personally and become contributing, productive, self-directed members of society. Club members

will select a focus area and complete a 4-H project during the year. Members will help their school and community throughout the year by de-

signing community service activities. RHS 4-H members may also participate in our Lincoln Parish Chapter of the 4-H Jr. Leaders Club called

Sigma Lambda Chi.

The 4-H Club at Ruston High School is open to students in Grades 9-12, and dues are $10. Officer applications will be available for

pick-up from Mrs. Thomason in Room 328 on Thursday and Friday, September 3rd and 4th. The following offices are available: Presi-

dent, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Reporter, Photographer, and Service Learning Chair. Eligibility requirements to apply for office are

posted outside of Room 328.

Belles Hosting Fish Fry submitted by: Mrs. Melanie Garrison

Belles Advisor

Do you enjoy watching our football team beat Byrd’s football team? Do you love fried fish?

If you answered yes to either of those you should attend the RHS vs. Byrd fish fry on September 4,

which is sponsored by the Bearcat Belles.

Admission into the fish fry will $5.00. See Mrs. Garrison or one of our Ruston High School

Belles and get your ticket today!

Ruston FBLA Ready

to Start New Year by Drew Boyd

News Editor

Last year, Ruston High School’s

Future Business Leaders of Amer-

ica chapter enjoyed success at Dis-

trict and at State Competitions.

RHS boasted a record number of

students who placed in the Top 10

in their respective competitions at

State, with four of these students

making it all the way to the Na-

tional FBLA conference in Ana-

heim, California.

It is the goal of RHS FBLA to

achieve even greater success this

year. That being said, FBLA’s is

recruiting now! Students can pick

up an application either from Mr.

Bruner (Room #318) or any FBLA

officer. The membership fee is $20.

The FBLA officers for the

2009-2010 school year are as fol-

lows: Drew Boyd – President;

Logan Taylor – Vice President;

Brittany White – Secretary;

Preyesh Govin – Treasurer; Dan-

ielle McCoy – Reporter; Amber

Brown – Historian; DJ Hardison

– Parliamentarian; James Hebert

– Multimedia Officer; and Carlos

Wilson – Sergeant at Arms. Ms.

Peters will act as Assistant Advi-

sor. Starting this year, there will be

two new non-voting officers – a

Freshman Affairs Officer and a

Sophomore Affairs Officer.

FBLA officers are selling

―Bearcat Pride‖ buttons for $1

each. They feature the image of a

Bearcat in the center with the

phrases ―Ruston High School‖

above it and ―Bearcat Pride‖ below

it. The buttons are white and the

image of the bearcat red so that

they will stand out.

Ruston FBLA prides itself on

participation in community service

events. We will again assist with

the ―Hot Halloween Happenings‖

event in October to help teach

young children the importance of

fire safety while allowing the chil-

dren to have fun by playing carni-

val – style games. This will be our

first major community service pro-

ject of the year. Any and all FBLA

members who wish to help out

should sign up early!

FBLA members should begin

considering what competitive event

they would like to participate in as

early as possible. Members are en-

couraged to stop by Mr. Bruner’s

room and make a decision concern-

ing what they would like to com-

pete in and pick up the necessary

forms. Listen for announcements

closely for all deadlines if you want

to attend.. Local competitions, if

needed, will take place in Novem-

ber. Don’t wait until the last minute

to decide what you want to com-

pete in – choose something you

know you will excel at in advance,

and use the handful of months lead-

ing up to District to brush up on the

material so that

we can make

this FBLA’s

best year at

District ever.


Chatterbox

Ruston High FBLA Attends Nationals in California

by Lloyd Bruner

Chatterbox Advisor

Ruston High School proudly announces that the school had ten members of Chapter 617 of the local Future Business Leaders of America

(FBLA) qualify for the National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California. Of the ten, four members attended the conference. Attending

the conference were the Business Presentation Team: Britney White, Elizabeth Eddy, and Spencer Berry; and the Business Financial Team

Leader: Ashley Boston.

These members qualified for Nationals through competition that began locally at Ruston High School and extended to the District Confer-

ence at ULM in February. From there, competition moved to the state level. The Business Presentation Team won the State Championship,

and the Business Financial Team placed 2nd at the State Conference, earning their slots to attend Nationals. The students spent a week in Cali-

fornia, traveling to San Francisco, Yosemite, Fresno, and Anaheim. Their itinerary consisted of attending various conference meetings, attend-

ing workshops, and testing and presenting in their events at the National conference. In addition to the academic requirements, the students also

enjoyed visits to educational, cultural, and entertainment venues and events, among these – Alcatraz, Muir Woods, Yosemite, and, of course,

Disneyland!

These members would like to thank local businesses and individuals for their financial support in making their attendance at Nationals possi-

ble. They are truly grateful for the outstanding support received this year. Every contribution was a blessing and truly appreciated!

Platinum level contributors included Lloyd and Christy Bruner, Richard and Diana Gay, Patricia Tippit, and Billy and Millicent

McConnell. Gold level contributors included Kerry Banks, The Buzz Barber Salon, Days Inn/Comfort Inn, Bob and Andrea Drake, Gnemi Financial

Strategies, Larry Jarrell, John Lee, Mike Luehfling, Owens Memorial Chapel, Parhms Law Firm, Mr. & Mrs. Pullis, Mrs. Rose, Bruce Zandt,

and Waltz Pharmacy.

Silver level contributors included Campatori Catering, William S. Carter, Jr., Cranford’s Grocery, Michael Evens, First National Bank,

Christi Fuller, Carl and Clara McCarter, Northside Furniture, Ponchatoulas, Willie and Margaret Spivey, Manuel and Nilda Chinchilla, and Wal-

Mart. Bronze level contributors included Ambrose Country Corner, Don M. Barron Contractors Inc., Bestway, J. Williams and Deberry, Butch

Hightower, Son Le, Cathy Lin, Qualitiees, Reali-Tees, Sandra Richardson, University Ink, Wachovia Securities, and Elizabeth Wibker. They

also would like to thank the Lincoln Parish School Board and the Ruston High School administration and business department for their

financial support and training.

Ashley Boston, Brittany White, Spencer Berry, and Elizabeth Eddy

Alcatraz – San Francisco, California – National FBLA Conference

Ashley Boston, Brittany White, Spencer Berry, and Elizabeth Eddy

National FBLA Conference in Anaheim, California

Sports August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

4th Annual Bearcat Madness by Christian Amos

Sports Editor

Attention Bearcat football fans: the 4th annual Bearcat Madness was held on Saturday, August 22nd, and if you missed it, well, you

missed out! Bearcat Madness is the time when the football team is introduced to the public along with other spirit groups. The Band

plays, the Cheerleaders cheer, and the Belles dance. Everyone takes pictures and purchases Bearcat merchandise such as t-shirts, flags,

sweat shirts, etc. In its main goal, that is, to build spirit, the 4th Annual Bearcat Madness was a huge success.

DATE OPPONENT DISTRICT GAME PLACE TIME

Aug

28

Jam At The Joe

Minden NO Tech 8:00

Sept

4 Byrd NO Home 7:00

Sept

11

Many NO Home 7:00

Sept

18 Ouachita NO Away 7:00

Sept

25 Sulphur NO Away 7:00

Oct

2 Richwood NO Home 7:00

Oct

9 Neville YES Away 7:00

Oct

16 Bastrop YES Away 7:00

Oct

23 West Ouachita YES Home 7:00

Oct

30 Wossman YES Home 7:00

Nov

6 Franklin Parish YES Away 7:00

Ruston Varsity Football Schedule

Sports August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Ruston High School 2009-2010

Football Coaching staff

Billy Laird-Head Coach J.P. Dunbar-Assistant Head Coach Chris Brister– Athletic Trainer Pat Hall- Strength and Conditioning Shannon Aultman Ed Colvin Wendell Crowe Thomas Davison Shannon Frasier Bob Garrett Ricky Goulart Doc Hoefler Chad Reeder Danny Roberts Hoff Schooler Toby White Chris Taylor

Coach Ed Colvin

Coach J.P. Dunbar

Coach Chad Reeder

Editorials/Opinions August 27, 2009

Chatterbox

Dear Seniors,

Wow! ―Dear SENIORS‖?! Really? It’s so hard to believe, but it’s true: we are the seniors. High school turned out not to be the eternity

we thought it would be, didn’t it? Entering the doors our freshman year, we could only imagine the friends we would meet, the classes we

would endure, and the memories we would make. (Plus, we had no idea that you could fall up the stairs as well as down them!)

Four years in high school seemed like it would be forever; some days that was a great thing, and some days that was an awful thing.

Nevertheless, this is our last year. It’s not quite over, but it’s not quite the same. Decisions have to be made concerning our future - the

future we thought would never come when we entered as freshmen. With all the excitement of growing up and moving on, don’t forget

that we still have one more year that is just as important as the rest of them. So keep your grades up, apply to colleges on time, and don’t

laugh away the responsibility that comes with growing up.

With that said, this is our last year and I encourage you to make the most of it. Try new things – those things you always wanted to do,

but have never actually done. Hang out with your friends and spend time with your family. Most of us will move out of the house after

high school, whether it be far away or nearby, and we won’t be seeing our family as much, so make the most of the time you have with

them now.

I also encourage you not to stress. School can get very hectic and stressful – especially if you have a full schedule or really hard

classes, but don’t let stress overwhelm you. Let’s make our last year here at Ruston High a wonderful and memorable year full of fun and

friends.

Your fellow classmate and friend,

Jessica Herren

What a Long, Strange Trip It’s Been

by Jessica Herren

Senior Reporter

Custodial Shout-Out! by Jessica Herren

Senior Reporter

When classes ended last May and students went home for the summer, the custodial staff stayed at Ruston High to clean up the

school and to beautify the landscape. They worked hard inside cleaning every single classroom in the school and waxing all the floors, as

well as washing the windows and tidying up the trophy cases. The outside areas of our school also look amazing thanks to their hard

work. Mr. Mark Milstead and several of his agriculture students helped the custodial staff with the landscape by adding the lovely new

flowerbeds at the school entrance, as well as planting new sections of grass. We owe them so many thanks for all of their hard work mak-

ing our school beautiful and clean inside and out. Thank you Ruston High Custodial Staff! Your work has not gone unnoticed.

―Tradition, Pride, Bearcat‖


Chatterbox

The End of Construction by Drew Boyd

News Editor

For the past two years, students at RHS have had to endure the inconveniences that resulted from massive construction to our school.

Lockers had to be shared, hallways were blocked off, and many classes had to move the contents of their rooms in and out of portable

buildings to allow for some much-needed improvements to come about.

Thankfully, however, that’s all behind us. It was often difficult to accommodate with and to get used to, but it was well worth it. As a

result of our patience, we now have a better school; a ―new and improved‖ learning environment that will allow the entire student body to

both be better students and to take even greater pride in being a Bearcat than we had prior. Everyone who helped to make these improve-

ments a reality, especially the workers themselves and the administrators here at Ruston High, deserve every ounce of thanks and grati-

tude from us students as we spend the year enjoying the fruits of their labor.

With that said, I would like all Bearcats to look at the new condition of the school in this way: it’s a fresh start for the school, and so

should it be for you. The school was renovated for us, the students, so let’s show our gratitude by being the best Bearcats we can possibly

be, both in spirit and in academics. Make this year, the first following construction, one to remember…it’s the least we can do to show

our thanks.

Bearcats Are the Best by Sarah Kilpatrick

Business Manager

It’s that time of year again…time to dust off the alarm clocks…time to stock up on pens, pencils, and paper…time to be a Bearcat. Yep,

that’s right, we’re back in school. Though three weeks ago we were all sleeping until noon and relaxing by the pool, it’s time to get back

to work. Let’s hit the ground running. This school year can be your best yet. Get involved, work hard, and make it a great year.

Freshmen are stepping into high school for the first time, a whole new world for them. You ―newbies‖ will do great, and we are all ex-

cited to have you at RHS. Good luck in your first year as a Bearcat! Sophomores, congratulations as you are officially no longer fresh-

men! We wish you well as you continue your high school career. Juniors, you are about to embark on what is possibly the most important

and arguably the most difficult year of high school. This is your last full year before you will begin to apply for colleges and scholarships.

So, show us what you’re made of. Do your homework, study, and most importantly, push yourselves, making this year your crowning

glory. Last, but certainly not least, SENIORS!! This is our last year to walk these halls. This is our last year to shine. This is our last year

to be a Bearcat in high school. Let’s go out with a bang! Don’t let senioritis stop you from excelling! Work hard, do your best, and you

will succeed.

Remember Bearcats are THE BEST! So, let’s take charge this year to once again prove it!


Chatterbox

¿Perdonar o no perdonar? Todo

depende de ti.

by Stephany Arias

Reporter

¿Que piensas de las segundas oportunidades?

Yo se que a veces es difícil perdonar, pero a

veces es peor no ser perdonado. En este caso

estamos hablando de un ser querido y cerca-

no a nosotros. Hay momentos en nuestra vida

en los cuales nos duele saber que la persona a

la que queremos tanto nos ha fallado, es

cuando nos preguntamos a nosotros mismos

que haremos al respecto. ¿Perdonar o no per-

donar? Esa es la pregunta que nos hacemos cada cinco minutos, y a

lo que me refiero es ha lo que haremos después de lo que ha pasa-

do. Seremos capaces de decirles, no te preocupes, todo estará bien,

o maybe we’ll just walk away from them and tell them good bye

forever? Ninguno de nosotros somos perfectos pero tratamos de

hacer lo mejor que podemos. I know we have ups and downs, but

the best thing to do is to stop thinking only about us, and start pla-

cing ourselves in other people’s shoes. Perdonar a otros es lo mejor

que podemos hacer, a veces es difícil, pero si no lo hacemos, al fi-

nal de cuentas, cuando seamos nosotros los que cometemos el error,

seremos nosotros los no perdonados. So think about it; what would

you do if someone you love made a mistake? Would you walk

away from him or would you give him a second chance?

Ask Carlos

Submitted by Carlos Wilson

Student Council President

How awesome of a student council President are you

going to be this year?

My awesomeness is not quantifiable; it cannot be ex-

pressed in mundane syllogisms. Awesome, for me, isn’t

an adjective….it’s a way of life – the exigency for my ex-

istence. As a child, I was christened by Spartans, blessed

by Beowulf, and knighted by the king of awesome-nicity:

Myself. Only five words exemplify my swag: ―Yeah

buddy, rollin’ like a big shot!‖ (I also don’t believe in sim-

ple mathematics). I am the hot to the cold, the yes to the

no, the Miley Cyrus to a mountain; I can almost see it…

can you? (I didn’t think so.)

Furthermore, I will not simply be an awesome student

council President. I will be the epitome of greatness with

the immaculacy of legit-ness. When life gives me lemons,

I put them in a sock and beat life down with them. When

I sneeze, Chuck Norris cries. If you ever see me fighting

a bear, you better help the bear.

In glorious summation, I vow to be the best Prez ever.

Ya dig?!

2009-2010 RHS Chatterbox Staff

Senior Editor Logan Taylor Senior

News Editor Drew Boyd Senior

Graphics/Design Editor Devin Easley Senior

Senior Reporter Jessica Herren Senior

Reporter Seth Bentley Senior

Reporter Anna Garland Senior

Business Manager Sarah Kilpatrick Senior

Sports Reporter Christian Amos Junior

Reporter Stephany Arias Junior

Reporter/Photographer Amber Brown Junior

Adviser/Sponsor: Mr. Lloyd R. Bruner, [email protected]

The purpose of the Chatterbox is to provide information and to promote school pride. We strive to meet the criteria set by the Louisiana Scholastic

Press for student journalism. In addition, if a reasonable basis or the belief that a publication would materially disrupt class work, involve substantial

disorder, or invade the rights of these, it will not be published in keeping with the guidelines of Hazelwood School District vs. Kulkmeier (1998).

Signed editorials may be sent to Ruston High School, 900 Bearcat Dr., Ruston, LA 71270.


Coming Soon... Chatterbox August 27, 2009

BEARCAT BOX OFFICE - Every month, Drew and Logan will bravely venture into the local movie

theater (one does not simply walk into Celebrity Theatres) to see what is considered one of the most popular movies at

the time, and will utilize the Chatterbox to let you Bearcats know whether it is worth spending your hard-earned

money on.

RHS COMIC STRIP - ―The Boolevard‖ (yes, it’s spelled that way) will be a comic featuring the adventures and ex-

ploits of two high school students with opposing personalities. Also, other comic strips may or may not be included...if

you are artistically inclined, send in a comic, and with your help, we could make an entire section dedicated to comics!

BIRTHDAY WISHES - Attention RHS students and faculty: If you would like for your or someone else’s birthday rec-

ognized in the Chatterbox, come by Room #318 or see one of the Chatterbox Staff members. If a student or faculty

member would like to write a Birthday wish for someone the price to do so is $1.00, with the birthday wish to be in-

cluded in the next issue.

STUDENT FOCUS - This section will feature student—submitted content such as poetry, short stories, etc. As the title

suggests, it is a focus on the writing talents of the students at Ruston High. Obviously, whether or not students send in

content will determine if this feature is implemented, so students...send us your stuff!

Test Words to Know

A N A L Y X E C O M P S A R E I N F A R

S A B C D F M N O W G N U Q L P H U X F

U K C O M P A R E M S Y A P K B O C S O

P T O Z T D N C U V P E I F P E R Y G R

P W N R R C A O H J A A R N F O R M U L

P K T A E S L M R P N L I Q T H R I X A

D W R Z C X Y P G Y A N U R E W J T K T

R E A M E F Z A U I L V L A A M N P O E

T O S Q D C E I O P I O C P T L R T Z Q

T P T C Q R H E E J S T V E S E T W U R

R R Z S R A N R C Y E C V W D F F Y X E

A I M J T I W N Y A Z A V I R N A E Z I

C D H V A S B O G I R R C E U O T I Y A

Y A P L Q C X E E U Y T A Q E L R I O R

X T P S U M N A R I Z E U P R A X I I S

X X O C E W J Y I A T E Y W M O I W I C

E V A L U U A T N E L Z U M H O G G F E

M R H X D F M N F O R M U L A T E F D S

K M A D E G J X E T K S C Z G H B A I R

B V O P R E D I R Y L M D A U T R A D E

Analyze Compare Contrast Describe

Evaluate Explain Formulate Infer

Predict Summarize Support Trace

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