KEEPI N G THE S TUDE NTS OF RHEA COU NTY HIGH SCH O OL I NFORMED SI N CE 1996
GRADUATION EDITION
The Eagle's Nest SUMMERTIME FLICK PICKS LIFE, PAGE 4
CONGRATS, CLASS OF 2008! PAGE 6 & 7
VOLUME 12, NUMBER 6
XTREME SENIOR PRANKS FUN, PAGE 12
Hannah Wright wins high oratorical honors
photo SUBMITTED
RCHS Sophomore Hannah Wright speaks in the state 4-H Public Speaking competition in Nashville. Hannah won 3rd place overall. photo by JULIUS SMITH
After 38 years of handing back test papers, Mr. Rodgers is heading off for a well-deserved retirement. Though best known by recent students as an English and Mythology teacher, Mr. Rodgers also taught Chorus, Health, General Music, and even American History during his time at RCHS.
Mr. Rodgers to retire By ALEX BROWN ALEXB@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
Mr. Thomas Rodgers, sophomore English and Mythology teacher, has decided to retire from teaching after 38 years of instructing students. “I want to retire before they have to carry me out in a pine box,” says Rodgers. His teaching career consisted of positions at Dalton City High School in Dalton, Georgia; Duffield in Detroit, Michigan; Rhea Central High School in Dayton, and finally Rhea County High School. Mr. Rodgers has instructed elementary Music class, high
school Chorus, Health, English 9, 10, and 11, General Music, American History, Short Story, and Mythology I and II. Some of his favorite memories revolve around teaching music: “Back when I was teaching Chorus, they would put on many good shows and musicals,” he comments. What’s his favorite subject to teach? “Depends on the class,” he responds. “I hope Mr. Rodgers has as much fun with his retirement as I had in his class. I learned tons and all the students had fun at the same time. ‘The Twilight Zone’ was one of my favorite
memories in Mythology,” said junior Danielle Doolittle. “He always had a sense of humor when he taught and you knew you would be smarter if you took any of his classes.” As we say farewell to the seniors of 2008, we bid adieu to an icon of Rhea County education. During his extensive career, he has helped numerous students in the fields of the arts and academics. His dedication to mentoring children has changed numerous lives over the years. “We will all miss Mr. Rodgers,” adds Doolittle.
By SARAH HEATH SARAH@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
On January, RCHS students Hannah Wright and Brandon Pritchett participated in the local 4-H had a public speaking competition, where they delivered speeches about how 4-H has impacted their lives. Hannah won first place at the competition and was sent the regional competition. Twenty speakers competed in the regional event, each speaker giving a prepared speech, followed by an extended speech. Hannah placed first in the competition and advanced to state. The state competition was a three day event. On Saturday, Hannah arrived in Nashville and rehearsed “Tennessee, The Land That I Love,” a play written by another 4-H member. Each competitor had a speaking part, about either a famous person from Tennessee or a well
known event from Tennessee’s history. Hannah’s role in the play was to talk about Alvin C. York. After rehearsing the play, the 4-H members presented it to Congressional delegates. On Monday, all of the competitors gave their prepared speeches to the delegates. Hannah said “I was excited to present my speech in front of the members of Congress, but I was nervous too. It was a real honor to be able to have this experience.” Ultimately, Hannah placed third in the state for public speaking. “At first I was disappointed that I did not get first, but the more I thought about it, I became really happy for placing third in state,” she says. On Tuesday all of the 4-H competitors had the opportunity to vote on bills. “It was very interesting to have the opportunity see SPEECH page 3
ISSUES IN EDUCATION
A penny for your thoughts In a move that seems distasteful and even desperate to some, schools across the nation are experimenting with paying students for performance. By LAUREN COLLINS LAUREN@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
photo BY KAREN ROACH / ISTOCKPHOTO.com
In some school districts across the United States, students are now expecting to come home with more than just gratitude for their academic success. Beginning with students as young as fourth grade, these schools are beginning to offer cold, hard cash as a reward for improved grades and test scores. Schools in Baltimore, Manhattan, New York City, and even Atlanta are experimenting with
different twists on this concept. At P.S. 188, on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, schoolchildren are receiving small cash awards for acing their standardized state tests. Some of the children receive up to $50. Students, however, are not the only ones benefiting from this new idea. Currently in New York City, if a teacher’s students improved their scores on the statewide test, then he or she could even receive up to a $3000 bonus. The same
goes for principals in this case. If their school improves and sets the score limits over the previous bar, then he could also cash out. In suburban Atlanta, a few schools started a program that pays 8th through 11th grade students $8 an hour for a 15-week “Learn & Earn” after-school enrichment program. Please keep in mind the federal minimum wage is currently $5.85. see PENNY page 3
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The Eagle’s Nest • Graduation Edition • May 2008
ISSUES IN EDUCATION
Single-sex classes come to Rhea County Following a national trend, Rhea Central Elementary has been offering certain classes for boys or girls only. By CORY SMITH CORY@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
From South Carolina to southern California, schools across the nation have begun experimenting with separating boys and girls in the core classes of the curriculum, an idea that seems a step backward to some, rather than forward. The program is based on the notion that boys and girls learn in different styles. Thus, this program works to meet the learning styles of each gender, whether it be the room to throw a ball in the boys’ classroom, or softer lighting in the girls classroom. The idea began taking off around the late ‘90’s, and has since spread to schools nationwide. Recently, Rhea County introduced same-gender classes into its eighth grade curriculum at Rhea Central Elementary School.
The RCES administration hopes that the early research in this area proving it to be successful will ring true in Rhea County, as well. So far, English classes are the only classes offered as single-gender; however, there is a possibility that classes will be expanded further across the curriculum. “Boys and girls have different learning styles, and this method allows the teachers to tune in to that style,” said Mrs. Susan Davis, teacher of the girls’ English class at RCES. Mrs. Davis went on to affirm that this arrangement also cuts down on the amount of “showing off ” between the sexes. Thus, there are less discipline problems. Mr. Doug Keylon, Principal of Rhea Central, echoed Mrs. Davis’s sentiments on disciplinary actions, saying that day-to-day discipline problems have been greatly reduced in these classes. In a recent stated-wide survey in Texas of approximately 1700 students, 70% of the students said that they felt their gender-
segregated helped improve their grades. Mrs. Davis seemed to agree that the arrangement should help with grades, because the students were more able to concentrate on their studies. “It allows me to concentrate more on what Mrs. Davis has to say,” said one student. Mrs. Davis added that the girls seem to ask more questions and are more willing to participate in class in a single-sex environment. The program is in its earliest stages at RCES and there are no hard statistics as of yet on the results of the program, whether they be positive or negative. Despite the positive feedback to the program thus far, concrete results here at home, will not be known for several years. Will such a program ever be implemented at the high school? Mr. Keylon said that currently expansion of the program was being seriously considered. However, he is quick to point out that, to his knowledge, the fo-
photo by alex green
NO BOYS ALLOWED. Mrs. Susan Davis teaches a girls-only 8th grade English class at Rhea Central Elementary School.
cus was on the elementary school levels, and only in the core classes such as Math, English, and Science. On a nationwide scale, Mr. Keylon’s feeling seems to parallel
the directions of most programs— the major focus is on the lower grades. Upper grades have been deemed a time for social development between the sexes, and thus are less likely to be segregated.
photo by victoria dewitt
Mr. Auldin Crane of American Legion Post 100 in Dayton presents Quinton Carter and Lauren Boyd with American Legion Physical Fitness Awards on the annual JROTC Awards Day, held April 8 this year.
JROTC wraps up 2007-08 year By CADET CAPTAIN ARIEL TOOMEY SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
It’s the end of the school year, and the end of most of our activities in JROTC. The JROTC Special Teams have been busy with competitions and earning a few awards along the way. The Color Guard participated in 32 activities and went to a competition in Fort Oglethorpe. The Drill team also went to the competition at Fort Oglethorpe— the armed platoon took 1st place overall, the unarmed squad took 3rd place overall, and Julia Thurman won the female Armed Individual Knockout, taking 3rd place overall. The Raiders went to Sterns, Catoosa, and Cedars for tournaments. They won 1st place Expert Ranger in Sterns. Pentathlon took 2nd place for the season and Quinton Carter won 1st for the tournament. The Rifle Team shot in the Mid East Tennessee league this year. They participated as a team at Montgomery Bell Military Acad-
emy and a league tournament at Ooltewah High School, where they won a trophy for 2nd place individual shooting. On the day of the tournament, Alex Welch, the commander, was awarded 3 other trophies: 2nd place prone, 2nd place standing, 3rd place individual, all of which were season awards. This year has been very successful for the Christian Warriors Bible Club, as well. The Club met twice weekly for prayer and Bible study in the JROTC room during the first half of the lunch hour, and was open to all students, teachers, and administration.
Topics they’ve discussed this year included the roles of men and women in households, what true love really is, friendship, and the storms of life. This year also brought a major inspection of our battalion. The inspection took place on December 11 and consisted of presentations by our staff, along with marching drills. The battalion did well, earning the title Honor Unit with Distinction for our 17th year in a row. Our Awards Day was held on April 8. This is a formal event for see JROTC page 10
PHOTOS BY ALEX GREEN
La-Z-Boy clocks serious overtime La-Z-Boy in Dayton generously donated upholstery, cushions, and labor to spruce up the seats in Rhea County High School’s Little Theatre at the beginning of April. A team of upholsterers worked long into the night over the course of two days to try to complete the project before the opening of the school play. Unfortunately, due to material shortages and packed schedules for the remainder of the year, a few chairs remain unfinished for the time being. Overall, though, the new look is quite sharp!
The Eagle’s Nest • Graduation Edition • May 2008
SPEECH
Eagles Out & About
from Page 1
to be able to express my opinion on the bills,” Hannah said. The competitors also got to take a ride and enjoy a lunch on the General Jackson, a 300-foot showboat that cruises the Cumberland River. Hannah’s favorite event of the three days was being able to present her speech in front of the Congress and visiting with all of her friends from across the state. 4-H Horse judging team also had a competition on April 11. The members of the team judged different classes to test their knowledge about horses. In the competition, the team had to be able to place each horse in a class and be able to defend that decision to a group of people who judged them on their reasoning. The team consisted of Jessi
HOME OF THE BRAVES. Mr. Hudson’s DE History classes trekked to Turner Field in Atlanta on Sunday, April 20 to watch the Braves take on the Los Angeles Dodgers. Atlanta took the day, 6-0.
PENNY SWETE HOME ALABAMA. Members of the RCHS Drama Club and Theatre Arts classes attended the Alabama Shakespeare Festival on April 25 & 26. They saw performances of Shakespeare’s Cymbeline and a new play called Rocket City.
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photoS submitted
It sounds like a win-win situation, but what do other school systems think? Is paying students for good grades sending the wrong message? Other schools and administrators believe that these ‘Payfor-Grades’ and “Learn and Earn” systems aren’t as promising as they might seem at first glance. If school districts start paying children for good grades in grammar school, what are these kids going to use for motivation in the
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Humberd, Brandon Pritchett, Hannah Wright, and Maria Rodgers. The team placed 9th, and Jessi Humberd was the number one judger. “I was very happy that I placed first on the team,” said Jessi Humberd, “I worked really hard to get first.” On Saturday April 12, at the Cherokee Beef Clinic, 4-H held a cattle show for the South Eastern region. Hannah Wright, who has been showing cows since age two, was the only participant from Rhea County. Hannah showed one heifer and one steer in the show, winning the award for Showmanship in the senior division At the show, Hannah also participated in a Skillathon, which is a test that shows the competitors knowledge in the beef industry.
future where these incentives are no longer existent? Some parents and teachers think this only contributes to the further “spoiling” of American kids. Cash incentives or a simple gold star, children and teens should be inspired and motivated by their teachers and mentors to be constantly trying to increase their academic marks. On the other hand, the only motivation to get a career may be the money, so perhaps they’re on to something after all?
Student Life Little Brother takes on the surveillance society Summer
blockbuster
The EN Staff chime in on their most eagerly anticipated films of the summertime blockbuster season.
watch!
“Terrorists can attack an open society, but governments can abolish it.” — the Swedish Pirate Party Science fiction author Cory Doctorow’s latest novel, Little Brother, follows Marcus, a 17-year-old senior in San Francisco who chafes under constant surveillance of his school system.
Iron Man [ May 2 ]
Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow After seeing the Hollywood adaptations of other Marvel comics such as Spider-man. XMen and The Fantastic Four, I know that Marvel’s movie-based Iron Man truly is going to be extremely awesome. ‘Nuff said. —Eric Bailey
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian [ May 16 ] Ben Barnes, Liam Neeson, Tilda Swinton
I am so ready to see the second installment of the Chronicles of Narnia. After seeing the trailer complete with Prince Caspian and his untraceable accent, I await with bated breath. The complete lack of blood in any of the fight scenes makes it a great kids movie. It’s like Lord of the Rings for those who can’t stand gore. A vast improvement on the original Narnia movies. ( Think bad lisp and awful animated lion talking.) —Starr Houston
Indiana Jones & the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull [ May 22 ] Harrison Ford, Shia LaBeouf, Kate Blanchett
I was 14 when the original Raiders of the Lost Ark hit theaters. It made quite an impression— we spent the rest of the summer storyboarding and scouting locations for the knockoff version we were going to film ourselves. We never made it, of course (8mm, no sound, and no money for film), but another installment of the series? I’m there. —Mr. Ferrell
BOOK REVIEW by Starr Houston
So when the school isn’t watching, he becomes W1n5t0n, figuring out how to evade the newest security measures that have been put into effect. From putting rocks in his shoes to avoid gait recognition cameras to nuking the tracking cards on his library books, he’s got it covered. He is with three of his friends in downtown San Francisco when the worst happens—a mushroom cloud rises over the ruins of Bay Bridge as people trample each other trying to get away from the destruction. Terrorists have bombed California. In the aftermath, Marcus and his friends find themselves taken prisoner. When he refuses to let his captors have access to his
phone and computer passwords he is tortured and humiliated for answers that he doesn’t even know. No, not by Al-Qaeda or political extremists—Marcus has been taken into the custody of the Department of Homeland Security. A week later he is released, “But from now on, you belong to us. We will be watching you. We’ll be waiting for you to make a misstep. Do you understand that we can watch you closely, all the time?” Outraged and afraid of what the government is becoming, Marcus does the only thing he can—he starts a revolution. A secret one. Using his Xbox, he builds a
Little Brother is available for purchase in bookstores and online. It’s also available as an audiobook from Random House Audio (http://www.randomhouse.com/audio). If you’re short of cash, you can download a copy for free on Cory’s web site, http://www.craphound.com/littlebrother.
The Happening [ June 13 ]
Mark Wahlberg, Zooey Deschanel I am very excited to see this thriller directed by M. Night Shyamalan. Based upon his previous movis like The Sixth Sense and The Village, the twists and turns will undoubtably keep me on the edge of my seat until the end. I anticipate that this movie will not reveal the complete truth until the end. —Sarah Heath
Get Smart [ June 20 ]
Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway I’ve been waiting for this to hit theaters for months. Based off of a 1960’s television show, Get Smart looks like a funny and promising follow up. Steve Carrel is hilarious, and I cant wait to see him trying to save the world as Maxwell Smart. —Victoria Dewitt
More? catch the SEQUEL on the next page!
photo by hrtmnstrfr / flickr.com
onnaroo cure B for summertime blues By KARISSA LINDAHL KARISSA@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
Anyone living in Tennessee with some sort of interest in music has probably heard about Bonnaroo. If you haven’t, Bonnaroo is a music/art festival held in Manchester, Tennessee for four days every June. (June 12–15, this year.)
spy-proof system that even the government can’t crack. He also earns the following of other kids like him who don’t want to be watched. So begins the underground revolution of Xnetters. Little Brother is a great read, steeped in American pop culture. It combines hints of the free society movements of the 60’s and the ominous overtones of 1984 with the emerging political and social trends in our modern, more technological world. You’ll be able to recognize allusions to Emma Goldman and other heroes of the 60’s and 70’s, not to mention the “Don’t trust anyone over 25” slogan that appears throughout the book. Don’t let the Orwellian influence dissuade you from reading it, though. It’s fast paced and directed at a teen audience so you’re not going to be bored half way through. Just take into account that this is a book of science-fiction and doesn’t quite reflect our present reality . . . yet. It could easily double as a handbook for the paranoid, but even you less conspiracy-minded readers will probably enjoy it for the different gadgets Doctorow describes. Unless you absolutely can’t stand conspiracy theories, this is a must read.
The music played is typically off the beaten track, but this year something strange has happened to the set. Not only do you have to worry about how you’re going to pay for your ticket, you also have to hear Metallica and Kanye West play at the same festival. Bonnaroo has received harsh criticism from music fanatics for
this one. Is Bonnaroo turning into “MTVaroo”? Do we have any sort of summer serenading to look forward to? The truth is, that underneath all of those big rap and metal names, a few gems can be uncovered. Many of which are rarely all together like this, and should not be overlooked because of a few bad eggs. There are also other things happening in the festival other than music. These attractions include: a Comedy Theatre, an Arcade Discotheque, and some fantastic art exhibits. Regardless of your feelings towards the headlining bands, I assure you that Bonnaroo is well worth the $245.00 you’ll fork up for a single ticket. Rolling Stone has even named Bonnaroo best festival to attend. Like to find out more? Check out the Bonnaroo web site at http:// www.bonnaroo.com for schedules, set lists, photographs, and more!
The Eagle’s Nest • Graduation Edition • May 2008
blockbusters ii
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The Dark Knight [ July 18 ] Christian Bale, Heath Ledger
Oh man. This is definitely my must-see of the year. Christopher Nolan did an amazing job with Batman Begins, and I’ve been anxiously awaiting this follow up. This movie is, of course, based on Frank Miller’s graphic novels, so that makes anticipation to see the Joker that much higher. From what I’ve seen of the trailers, the Joker is portrayed as a more twisted, demented psycho, and less like the amusing clown Jack Nicholson portrayed in the original Tim Burton movie. Overall, I can hardly wait for this movie to hit the theaters, and I may just be that guy who watches it at midnight the day it releases. —Alex Green PHOTO by julius smith
NICE DRESS, BUDDY. Stringer (Justin Rice) attends the prom in a lovely red ensemble that’s hardly even appreciated by his girlfrien— er, boyfrien— um, date, Boombox (Nene Raiteri). In the background, Bridget (Sara Goode) looks for hers.
Prom night mayhem plays for laughs By TYLER HUMPHREY TYLER@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
On April 4th and 5th, the Drama department put on a performance of Switcheroo. It’s prom time at school, but there’s just one problem—no one has dates. All the guys are afraid to ask for dates and all the girls are anxiously waiting for the guys to ask them. Then, Beatrice and Pokey come up with a brilliant solution. They concoct a “love potion” to make the shy boys at school ask them to the prom and they unveil
it just in time. However, the potion goes horribly wrong with hilarious results. Anyone that comes in contact with the mystical fluid instantly changes sexes. After the shocking revelation of the resulting change, Beatrice and Pokey must brew an antidote to return everyone back to the correct sex in time for prom. This play was definitely a must-see for students at the high school, even if it was just to see some of their best friends acting like the opposite sex or see them
in a prom dress/tuxedo. Nathan Bates said “I never thought I would ever wear a prom dress. I can’t say that I’m proud that I was wrong, but it wasn’t all that bad. I never put down a chance to be in the spotlight.” Switcheroo was definitely worth the two bucks to go see and I never once regretted the admission price. I give it two thumbs up. Also, it was the first chance to enjoy the new seats in the little theater and I must say that I enjoyed being one of the first to sit in the new seats.
The Mummy: The Tomb of the Dragon Emperor [ August 1 ] Brendan Fraser, Jet Li
After watching both of the previous films, I can’t wait for this summer blockbuster! Brendan Fraser has always been one of my favorite actors of all time, so just the fact that he stars in it makes it great. Not to mention the fact that it was written by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, who wrote Smallville. —Alex Brown
Pineapple Express [ August 8 ] Seth Rogen, James Franco
An action-comedy film from the directors of Knocked Up and the producers of Superbad, Pineapple Express is going to top all of its predecessors, guaranteed. The trailers for this movie left me absolutely breathless and wanting so much more. —Karissa Lindahl
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Class of 2008 A presidential farewell
By DUSTIN OMAR PASCHAL 2008 SENIOR CLASS PRESIDENT
Looking back at all the good times at Dayton City, I recall a day, close to 8th grade graduation, where I, along with my friends, gathered around the lunch table discussing our opinions about what high school would be like. Getting our license and a car, going to tailgate parties before football games, and getting to be with the “big kids” in our county were thoughts that ran through our minds—just the normal, pre-adolescent ideas of high school. We were so caught up in imagining the perks of high school and growing up itself that we kind of overlooked the negative things that it may bring. For instance, friendships and relationships ending, peer pressure starting, and beginning a completely different life than we were accustomed to. As the years progressed, I got an idea of what high school was and how big of an impact it had on me. High school, for me, is what keeps me going. It’s what gets me out of bed in the morning— just knowing that I have a place
where I can have fun and spend time making memories with my friends. It’s the place where you can go all out for your dodgeball team, or be in the school play as a nerdy vacuum cleaner salesman with a make-out scene. It’s the place where you can dance and sing in the yearbook room and it’s the place where you can sing praise songs and have blast doing it! It’s really cliché, but these are the best years of our lives. It is what you make it—so why not make it the best and most memorable years ever? The halls of RCHS hold many memories for the class of 2008. Sadly, it’s time to leave them behind and prepare to start more memories elsewhere. My life would have been nothing without my friends. They have been there with me everyday all my life. There are the DCS crazy kids, who I have known the longest and have been the best when it comes to friendships. I will never forget playing Titanic at recess, the Fisher bunch, of the party after the graduation party—what a fun night full of good times. The dances, the parties, the teachers, and most importantly the friendships are what made DCS what it was. We are growing up Sweaetbees, and it’s time to fly. I love you guys and won’t forget you. Then there are the high school pals. Wow—I have met some crazy characters! Friends who sing JC Penny commercials, friends who I can bust out in song with, and friends who I go to games with and yell my head off.
Then there are the clubbies. Theater—stay strong thespians, and keep it up and running. It’s where I started, and it’s not where I will stop. Thanks Ms. B. for always believing in me, and for all your love and care. Fantastic Four, I love you guys. You did awesome this year. Thank you for everything. Soccer boys, you guys are my boys and I love all of ya’ll and had a blast being your captain. Coach Heath, thank you for pushing me and giving me a chance to prove myself. FCA cats, you made me a better person and I love all of you guys. Coach Rue thank you for being a great role model for me. I look up to you. Leadership class, I grew so much as a person, and it’s all because of you, Cholder. You are the Man and I love you. Over all, there is one person who stands out farther then the rest. This person was my first friend, is my best friend, and my role model. He keeps me laughing and smiling, and made me what I am today. We finally made it, Devin. I will be lost without you next year, but we can do it. Devin Ross, I love you “butter,” and thank you for always being there for me. Seniors, it has been my honor to serve as your president for the past four years. I have enjoyed every minute of it. I hope you have enjoyed high school as much as I did. May 16 will be a date that will always be in our hearts. The future is now, Class of 2008—so get ready, lets do what we do!
Class of 2008
vital statistics 291,600: minutes you could have spent in high school, if you were present just about every day 8,640: minutes of announcements you would have heard during that time 19: number of school days those announcements would take, read continuously 213: average number of miles you have walked between classes during your four years (that’s almost like walking from Chattanooga to Atlanta and back again!) 84: pounds of books you’ve probably carried over four years of high school, assuming you carried books 24,000: average total number of pages in those books 625: average total number of those pages you likely read 1,440: number of drinks you probably purchased over four years 225: gallons in those drinks 72: ounces you probably actually drank over four years, before leaving your mostly full bottles on the floor in a classroom or in the trash 1 in 100: your odds of being a state champion in something as a member of the Class of 2008 370,000: dollars (at least!) given away on Senior Awards Day as college scholarships (not including Hope scholarships)
DISCLAIMER: The above statistics are based on the sketchiest of experimental data and survey data that is dubious, at best. While some may be close to accurate, they should be regarded as for entertainment purposes only.
THE TIMES, THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’ After directing the band for 33 years, Mr. Sheddan puts on his last halftime show, and hangs up his baton.
Dallas Smith becomes the new Rhea County School Superintendent.
2004 Fall Semester
Ominous cracks form in the cafeteria floor, which nevertheless fails to crumble into the creek.
2005 Spring Semester
The RCHS gymnasium gets a snazzy new floor and bleachers that are almost comfortable!
Mrs. Chattin washes the paint off her hands for the last time, and retires after teaching art for 35 years.
The Eagle’s gets a facelift
2006 Fall Semester
Spring Semester
The Freshman Academy is established, moving 9th Grade classes to a wing of their own.
Hunter Green wins his first State Golf Championship.
Fall Semester
Mrs. Rowe retires after a 42-year career of teaching and counseling. Now a perennial favorite, The Faculty performs at the Talent Show for the first time.
The Eagle’s Nest • Graduation Edition • May 2008
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Why leave a legacy?
By JULIE GILLETTE 2008 SALUTATORIAN
Surviving your
Many people determine their success in high school by how popular they become, breaking the record for the most touchdowns, or becoming homecoming queen. But how important are all these things in life? In a popular Christian song, “Legacy,” Nicole Nordeman sings of a desire every human being possesses. It is a desire for someone to remember them for something great. Legacy is a fancy word. It sounds important and dutiful. But leaving a legacy isn’t so complicated. It’s about making a lasting impression on people—whether they are your friends, your teachers, people in your community, your church, or your world. It’s about relationships. Make your life about your
PHOTO by CORY SMITH
SENIOR YEAR
Now older and (perhaps) wiser, Cory Smith and Alex Green revisit a theme from this year’s first issue—this time offering tips to help underclassmen get Don’t let things that won’t matter a year from now keep safely out the door with a tassel you from making memories that and diploma.
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Senior year—the end of this four-year journey through high school. Alex and I have made it through to the other side of this life-altering experience, and we feel it is now time to bring some of our advice full circle after completing our final year of high school:
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Enjoy every minute of every day here. Some of the friendships that you make here will last a lifetime, and others will not. Some of the people you have come to love so dearly, you may never see again. Revel in every moment of laughter, and don’t take the good times for granted.
will last a lifetime. That may mean calling into work, not that we encourage that sort of behavior, or scrambling last minute to do a paper you put off for time with your friends. Once again, this type of behavior is not encouraged.
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Don’t procrastinate. It’ll bite you if you do. ‘Nuff said.
Don’t let Senioritis get the best of you. Missing school could destroy that glorious GPA you’ve worked so hard for over the past three years. Plus, how can you be enjoying every minute with your friends, if you aren’t here to begin with?
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Memories aside, remember that your education is still priority. Don’t let a job, or fool-
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It’s in your best interest to have a general idea of what you’re going to do after you walk across that stage. Whether it be going into the military, headed to a school of higher learning, or going straight into the workforce.
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Spend some time this summer brushing up on the Con-
Selfless people throughout history have made impacts on lives. The small acts of kindness here—such as volunteering as a huddle leader at FCA camp, helping a struggling Freshman, or befriending someone who just needs someone to lean on—often times go unnoticed by many, but touch the hearts of others. I have to believe that I can have a positive influence on another, no matter how small the act. Investing in the lives of others is important. It’s about the relationships that each of us are forming now, in high school. As my high school years are coming to a close, I begin to ask myself, “Have I inspired anyone? Is this it? When I leave here, what will people remember? Will I have lived in a way that mattered to anybody else?” I hope that one day I hear, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” The preparation for that is taking root now and in the years to come. But in the meantime I’ll keep pouring my life into my friends, my family, those who I sometimes feel don’t deserve anything, as well as the causes that stir my heart. And maybe, just maybe, I’m leaving a legacy.
stitution and the fundamentals of NATO and OPEC. Economics and Government are mandatory.
sneaking suspicion you will have some very strong calf and thigh muscles come May of ‘09.
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Take the ACT as early as you can. Take Alex’s word on this one, waiting until that summer that you register for classes is not a good idea.
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“Like shut up, stupid! He SO did not just give me wall squats!” Yes he did, and the way you just said that, I have a
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Graduation isn’t the end of the world, or so Alex and I hope. This is only the end of one road and the start of the on-ramp to life. Never give up hope, and never forget the fun times and friendships you had at RCHS. Congratulations, Class of 2008! We finally made it! TIMELINE by alex green
Carpet is removed from all of the hallways, leaving only beige paint and musty memories.
s Nest t.
ish drama, keep you from making the most of some of the best teachers in the school.
relationships. Be the trusted companion, the one who shows kindness and compassion even if it’s not deserved, someone who can influence and shape another’s life in a Godly and positive way. Some people seek to be remembered by their accomplishments, the clothes they wore, or the car they drove. Leaving a legacy is more than all of these things. It’s about swallowing your pride and showing grace to those who do not deserve it. It’s about showing kindness to the people who evoke wrath. It’s about possessing and practicing the qualities of compassion, love, and humility. Obviously I’m not perfect, but I enjoy an accolade like the rest and want to be accomplished. Leaving Rhea County High School with people knowing my name and having done something great is what I planned on doing since my Freshman year. My youth pastor and his wife recently talked with me about this very topic of leaving a legacy. They asked me, “Why leave a legacy?” Or maybe the question is, “Why not leave a legacy?” Leave a legacy because you can, because it’s your responsibility to share your life and your experiences. They both encouraged and challenged me to make the most of my time left here at Rhea County High School.
Mrs. Rogers retires after 36 years of guidance counseling.
One-hour lunch is instituted.
The new school gates get a new school guard—meet Doug Brady!
Class of 2008 Graduates! One-hour lunch becomes 45-minute lunch.
2007
2008
Spring Semester
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
A new chain link fence with gates is put up around the school. Don’t look now, but... Security Cameras are installed throughout the school.
The front parking lot is repaved, and students can find their spots again thanks to repainted numbers.
Jacob Henley and Hunter Daniels are state wrestling champions.
English & Mythology teacher Mr. Rodgers retires after an “epic” 38-year career.
Sports Eagle baseball team perseveres through difficult season By RYAN SMITH RYAN@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
The Rhea County Golden Eagle’s baseball season came to an end this past Sunday, when the Eagles fell for the third straight time to district foe Walker Valley. After losing to rival Cleveland the prior Thursday night by a margin of 4-1, the Golden Eagles were finally forced into the losers bracket of the district tournament. The Eagles had hoped they would fare differently in their third meeting against the Mustangs this season, but fell by a 10-1 margin. The loss was the team’s second in the district tournament, and, therefore, their last game of the season. The game served as a disappointing ending to a season in which the Eagles never managed to take flight. Golden Eagle head coach Wes Caldwell summed things up simply: “We shot ourselves in the foot.” And that, at times, seemed to be the story throughout the 2008 season.
photo by SARAH Heath
SAFE AT HOME. Michael Swafford easily crosses the plate, bringing in one of the five runs the Eagles scored in an April 15 game against Walker Valley.
Though their record was not outstanding, the 2008 Golden Eagle squad serves as an example of perseverance and determination. Depth was a big concern going into the season; The Eagles had a mere 22 players on their roster. Among those 20-some-odd players were five seniors who will be severely missed next year. When asked what his final season meant to him, senior third baseman Devo Paschal said,
"Those of us lucky enough to be a part of the game of baseball have a tremendous responsibility. We're charged with giving back to the game all the good things that the game has given to us, and I'm just glad that I had the opportunity." Along with Paschal, seniors Ryne Anderson, Jamey Paul, Tyler Burton, and Tanner Leaman will all leave a void that Coach Caldwell and the 2009 squad will find tough to fill.
photo by sarah heath
FOUL OR FAIR? Golden Eagle 3rd baseman Devin Paschal carefully judges the roll of a Walker Valley hit. The Eagles were ultimately defeated 17-5.
Men’s soccer seeks to benefit from coaching consistency By SARAH HEATH SARAH@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
The RCHS Men’s soccer season is quickly coming to an end. The team has played sixteen games and has a record of three wins, three ties, and ten losses. This year’s group of players worked hard to fill the voids from last year, but they are still weak in some areas on the field. Individual ball skill is a weakness that this team has because there are not many feeder programs in Rhea County. “The lack of individual ball skill really hurts us,” said Coach Heath, “because ball control assists with better passing and receiving.” Coach Heath keeps reminding the team that they will have to work on their skills in the off season if they want to see a noticeable improvement next year. Season standouts include George Lopez and Carlos Rodriguez up front, Trent Snyder, JT Lenior, and Tyler Zimmerman at defense, and Josh Davis at goal. The younger players are adding more speed and ball skill to the team; many of the freshmen have a great amount of potential which benefits the team greatly. "I strongly believe that it has helped the team significantly by having the same coach for a second year," said Coach Heath, "and they are only going to improve more each year because they are going to know what I except on and off the field." The team won their last game 3-0 on May 1. This game was the team's senior night—four valuable seniors will be departing after this year: Zack Harris, JT
photos by sarah heath
Lenior, Dusty Paschal and Trent Snyder. All of the seniors finished up their high school soccer careers on a good note. "Each one of the seniors has worked hard and put the interest of the team first," said Coach Heath. “Their field presence will be missed next year." This year the team placed 5th in the district, and played against Cumberland in the district play in this past Monday, May 5. The district game was intense from the beginning down to the final minute. Each player gave it their all, but the game ended with a loss of 1-0. This team beat last year’s record, though, and Coach Heath sees a great amount of potential for next year’s returning players.
SHOT ON GOAL. Carlos Rodriguez (Above) lines up a shot on Bradley County’s goalie during an April 15 game.
BALL CONTROL. Zack Harris (Left) works on liberating the ball from Bradley County’s offense.
The Eagle’s Nest • Graduation Edition • May 2008
2008 SPORT SIGNERS Congratulations to these senior athletes! Football Brandon McLeroy signed with MTSU Chris Roberts signed with Carson-Newman Golf Hunter Green signed with MTSU Basketball Jeremy Haley signed with Bryan College Softball Myranda Hughes signed with Tennessee Wesleyan Charlie McCuistion signed with Roane State Cross Country/Track Brittany Rothfolk signed with Tennessee Wesleyan MaryBeth Dyer signed with Tennessee Tech Alyssa Lindsay signed with Bryan College photo by VICTORIA DEWITT
HAPPY DAYS. The Lady Eagles get charged up for an inning switch in a game on April 29 against Walker Valley.
Lady Eagles take 1st in district By VICTORIA DEWITT VICTORIA@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
The Lady eagles softball team’s outstanding season is coming to an end. The girls have played well and pulled together as a team to come out on top in almost all of their games. Their first district game of the season did not have such a good turn out, losing 2-1 to Walker Valley. However, the Lady eagles (21-7), (18-1) still placed first in the district for the regular season. Coach Brittany Hayes says there have been some outstanding performances by Chelsea Watson, and Haley Kidd. “They really pulled through in the bottom of the season to help us come out on top,” Coach Hayes says. Also, Katie Freels, who has pitched nearly every game, has
photo by VICTORIA DEWITT
POWERFUL PITCHING. Katie Freels prepares to fire a pitch to a Walker Valley batter. Freels pitched in nearly every games for the Lady Eagles this season.
played a big part in the team’s success. The Lady eagles are scheduled to finish their post-
season tournament games at McMinn county, beginning May 8.
Tennis teams celebrate successful seasons By BROOKE SMITH BROOKE@RCHSEAGLESNEST.ORG
This year the boys’ and girls’ tennis teams have done very well. Both of the teams have an overall winning record. Although the boy’s team was headed toward being undefeated, they unfortunately lost their last match to McMinn County. The final tallies of the season are 11-5 for the girls team and 12-1 for the boys. This year’s seniors consist of Julie Gillette, Billy Whisman, Michael Cooper, and Nick Tuttle.
They all had a great season and we wish them the best of luck as they venture off to college. The tennis team also had a great time as they had “fun in the sun” over spring break when they went to the sunny coast of Destin, Florida. However, it was not all fun and games. The tennis team fought to attain victory over Destin’s Choctawhatchee and Ft. Walton Beach High Schools tennis teams. A notable detail of the season includes Micheal Cooper going undefeated in the regular season. Also, the boy’s number one
doubles team of Billy Whisman and Junior Kelly Lane dominated in the district tournament and came up with a first place victory. The two will be advancing to the Region Tournament. Yet another achievement was that Billy Whisman, Michael Cooper, Julie Gillette, and Brooke Smith all gained the honor of being named All-District. Although the girls did not make it to the finals in districts, they have accomplished a lot this season. Congratulations to both teams!
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The Eagle’s Nest • Graduation Edition • May 2008 PAINT & PANDAS. An unidentified panda encourages Eric Bailey and Victoria Dewitt as they paint a skateboard deck for a competition at Mainstage Music.
AROUND SCHOOL
TALENT SHOWS. More acts than we could possibly picture here performed in this year’s talent show. ABOVE: Cassie Swiney, Faith Hedrick, Emilie Beslile, and Sarah Hedrick sing. RIGHT: Mr. Goins heads up The Faculty.
March and April were busy months around RCHS— here’s a small glimpse of what was going on.
TUBA ROOM! The internationally acclaimed Tennessee Tech Tuba Ensemble performed for music students in the Little Theatre.
THIS BLEEDING BUSINESS. Josh Holland does his part in the Spring blood drive. RCHS students donated about 50 pints of blood— that’s almost 24 2-liter bottles full!
THE OLD COLLEGE TRY. Cynthia Ayala and Lindsey Catlett talk to a representative from Lee University at RCHS’s first College & Career Day.
JROTC from Page 2
the JROTC, in which members of, or formally part of, the military present these awards to the cadets. At the end of the Awards Ceremony, Thomas Burton was promoted to the new Battalion Commander. Our Military Ball was held on
AH, CAPELLA! The Standards, a group composed of five brothers from Idaho, filled the gym with a capella renditions of R&B, Doo-wop, and 50’s-60’s jazz tunes.
April 19, another formal event for the JROTC. We first had a dinner buffet before our guest speaker, Don Mathis, spoke to us about his experiences in life. After that we had our Military Ball Court. The princes and princesses were Tobias Williams, Kellie Fogus, Joshua Linger, Dannica Boles, Thomas Burton, and Denica Leffew. The king and queen of the
ball, though, were Robert “MiniBob” Weaver and Crystal Kerley. I would like to say to our outgoing Senior Class that we will all miss you in our own ways and that our time with you all has been too short. We wish you all the best!
ROANE STATE ACADEMIC FESTIVAL The Roane State Academic Festival was held on April 9 and 10. Several individuals and groups from RCHS entered. Congratulations to these winners! Alex Green
2nd Place
Editorial Writing
Wendy Edens
3rd Place
Sculpture & Ceramics
Carly Facciani
3rd Place
Traditional Poetry
The Eagle’s Nest
1st Place
Newspaper
The Aerie — 007
3rd Place
Yearbook
Opinion Perspective:
Thanks for the memories Most graduating seniors this year have attended this school for four years. Then, a select f e w, have only been here f o r three or less. CORY Some SMITH by high scholastic effort, others by extenuating circumstances. I came to Rhea County High School at the beginning of my sophomore year. At the time I only knew a handful of people here,
mostly family members, but teacher. I had only just bethat didn’t last for long. gun to figure things out at The extreme hospitality my old school, and then I and kindwas pracness of the tically a I came to Rhea County Class of freshman 2008 overall over High School at the beginwhelmed again. ning of my Sophomore me. So N o w many peot h r e e year. The extreme hospiple treated years have tality of the Class of 2008 me with passed, overwhelmed me. more kindand we’re ness than I all oldhad known er and, before—even from friends I perhaps, a little bit wiser. had known before moving Friendships have been here. made and broken. Tears However, it wasn’t just have been shed, and laughthe Class of 2008, but ev- ter has echoed through the ery student here, and every halls of this school.
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Many of you make this place what it is. It will be a challenge, that I’m sure many will meet, for the rising classes to carry on the reputation left behind by this class and the classes that have gone before our own. Now I take this time to thank each and every one of you for everything you have done. Keep the spirit of friendship and kindness you’ve carried with you through high school on through life. Never forget the memories you’ve made here, and the friends that you’ve had. Thank you again class of 2008. Good Luck in everything you do.
“When you leave here, don’t forget why you came.” The end is near, my friends. Soon we will be walking across the stage, shaking hands with Mr. Levengood, M r . M e s s i m e r, a n d M r s . To l i ver, and ALEX we’ ll GREEN move our tassels across our caps in graduation tradition. We’ll sit down again, someone will congratulate us, and thirteen years of education will be sealed. It will be over. We cannot change the course that has been laid before us, and we cannot
go back now and live out bygone years again. When we graduate, everything we’ve ever known will be gone, and we’ll be cast into the world to make our own way. I’m overjoyed that I’ve finished this portion of the race, and I’m proud to have run beside such great people such amazing teachers. I’m proud for every single name that will be called on May 16, and I hope they can consider traveling with me an honor, as well. But now at the end of this experience, I know that the pleasure is all mine. To the teachers that I have had the privilege of sitting under during my time at Rhea County High School: Thank You. Thank
you for coming here, and putting up with the hassles that come with your profession, so that someone might learn something and come away with more than they possessed when they arrived in August of 2004. I’ve found that you not only care on an educational level, but on a personal level, as well. I’ve been on the receiving end of many, “Is something wrong?” or “What’s bothering you?”. Sometimes, just knowing that someone cares has been enough to brighten the worst of days. I also want to thank all of my peers. I’ve made some friendships here that I know will last for the rest of my life. Once again, I
can’t put into words how much of an honor it’s been to attend high school with you people. On days that have felt overwhelming, there’s always been someone there to help a friend up, dust him off, and help him back on his way. But now it’s over, and as J.R.R. Tolkien wrote in The Hobbit, “he had come far and through many adventures to see it, and now he did not like the look of it in the least.” No better explanation can I offer about graduation in my eyes. We must proceed, though, and as we do, I urge you, my friends, in the words of Adlai Stevenson, “When you leave here, don’t forget why you came.” © Copyright 2008 ARES - all rights reserved
The Eagle's Nest R H E A C O U N T Y H I G H S C H O O L’ S S T U D E N T N E W S P A P E R
Alex Green Cory Smith Editors Cory Smith Matthew Price Layout
Lauren Collins Victoria Dewitt Sarah Heath Photo Editors Tyler Humphrey Brooke Smith Puzzle Editors
Nilam Patel Alex Brown Business Managers Julius Smith Archivist
Eric Bailey Will Garrison Starr Houston Rochelle Nordyke Ryan Smith Karissa Lindahl Reporters-at-large Jeff Ferrell Adviser
George Hudson Adviser Emeritus
The Eagle’s Nest 405 Pierce Rd. Evensville, TN 37332 Phone: (423) 775-7821 Fax: (423) 775-7889 Email: info@rchseaglesnest.org Web site: http://www.rchseaglesnest.org
Just for Fun E M RE
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SENIOR PRANKS!
textbooks erased!
concepts & photography by humphrey, garrison, & ferrell; compositing by matthew price
School turned upsidedown!
giant redwoods planted in library!
lockers bricked up!
school Moved TO the moon!
school buses stacked!
Congratulations, Class of 08! from
The Eagle's Nest Senior Staff
Alex Green
Cory Smith
Nilam Patel
Ryan Smith
Will Garrison
Tyler Humphrey