Ranchester High School - Rustler Yearbook (Ranchester, WY)

Text from Pages 1 - 68 of the 1943 volume:

TTTe Rustler 1943 Eighth Annual TO BE PUBLISHED BY The Junior and Senior Classes Ranchester High School RANCHESTER - WYOMING Picture Pages by THE ROCHFORD STUDIO Printed by STAR PUBLISHING CO. Sheridan - Wyoming Page 3 ty n. vw-X aN ’vLutaW W- Oaihv Vbbfo . U. EsJ V ITOJ aOal lS V ftlTWJ� VXic 5 V V oa a r v[ § °VK _ 5VX2_ a_ TC JUwX 4A_ « VYL . ftnraA_ Vaff miyj H jAknrfvAxj iu A_ va-V ia.. f wrv rva oX_ ki_ V toAWyJo JUj- f' XAi.A v 9LA _ To Whom It May Concern By publishing an annual again this year, we feel that we have helped to promote better school spirit, and know that we have gained valuable experience in the organization of a yearbook. We tried to make our annual a student project and planned the Rustler using our own ideas and preparing the material ourselves. We hope that in our articles, pictures and dedication that we have left a memory book of happy days at Ranchester High School, and pro- moted an increased interest in higher education and also an incentive to students to do better wcrk in the coming years. Thank you, teachers, for without your help and advice we would not have been able to publish this book which is important to us. Sincerely, THE ANNUAL BOARD. THE ANNUAL An annual will remind us In the years to come Of classes and parties— Oh, weren’t they lots of fun? We’ll net forget the teachers Who taught us every day, Arc’ll remember R. H. S. As we go on our way. i Page 7 THE FACULTY MR. DWIGHT E. BURCH Superintendent Guidance, Social Studies, Economic Geography, General Science, Physical Education. State Teachers College, Kearney, Nebraska MISS ANNE K. KUZMA High School Typing I and II, Health. English, Literature, Art. University of Wyoming at Laramie. MRS. FLORA V. BURCH High School Arithmetic, Basic Mathematics, Algebra, Bookkeeping. Principia College, Elsah, 111., and University of Colorado at Boulder. MRS. LENA R. SEIG Grades 4, 5 and 6 Black Hills Teachers College, and the Wyoming University MRS. E. J. JOHNSON Grades 1, 2 and 3 University of Wyoming and Chadron State Normal Since there was a shortage of teachers this year, Mr. Davis agreed to teach Mathematics and Science temporarily. He was here the first twelve weeks; then Mrs. Chappell taught until the end of the semester. BOARD OF EDUCATION MR. H. C. DIERKS _ President MR. H. L. HALLOWELL Clerk MRS. W. S. TSCHIRGI ................. Treasurer Page 8 I s Kuv( t« n 5. e i o CLASSES Seniors Juniors Sophomores Freshmen Junior High Intermediate Primary Seniors ENROLLMENT Don Bruce Roberta Strait John Kuzma La Vonne Mae Sperl Jack Kawulok Anna Kawulok Nina Marie Johnston MOTTO .... We can, we will. COLORS .... Red and White. FLOWER .... Red Carnation SYMBOL . . . B2 OUR CLASS: John Kuzma was our class president this year, and the vice pres- ident was Jack Kawulok. Don Bruce graduated in January. He was the secretary for the first semester, and we elected La Vonne Sperl as our secretary for the second term. Our student council representa- tives were Don Bruce and Nina Johnston. As a last word to the Juniors, Sophomores, Freshmen and Junior High, we leave the following message: “If we have set any good ex- amples, follow them, and also try to profit by our mistakes. Complete your high school education, and then, if possible, go on to college.” HOW IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN For four long years in high school I’ve toiled I’ve fought, I’ve tried, I’ve worked and fret For four long years I’ve studied and moiled All with the hope of what I might get. After four long years of studying With that one last goal in mind I’ve finally resched that final rating A Senior—wise, just and kind. HOW IT WAS For four long years in high school I’ve played I’ve fooled. I’ve flirted, I've monkeyed and slept; For four long years I've wearied and strayed Without any thought of what I would get. After four long years of fiddling Without any goal in mind There has finally come the awakening Gosh! I was almost left behind. Page 13 SENIOR CLASS PROPHECY In the summer of 1953 I decided to take a lengthy vacation. I had no idea where or how I wanted to spend it, but I thought and thought and finally came to the conclusion that it would be wonderful if I could visit my “old classmates” once again, and that is what I did. My first stop was in California where I visited Anna Kawulok, who was working in a defense plant as a welder, and a very successful one, too! Anna was proclaimed “Champion Welder Lady of Her Yard.” Traveling on to Oregon, I was made welcome at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Kuzma. John had acquired much fame since I last saw him, being known far and wide as an “expert aquaplane rider,” who had already ridden many times in festivals on the coast and in Canada. Salt Lake City, Utah, was my next stop. Here I visited Mrs. Scolder, the former Roberta Strait, now happily married to one of the most learned Professors in Utah. “Prof. Perpetual Scolder.” In Dallas, Texas, I was extremely surprised to find that Jack Kawulck was the owner of the largest Dude Ranch in that state. He was still single, but was rather seriously contemplating marriage in the near future. After leaving Jack in Texas, I journeyed on to Florida, where 1 was guest at the lovely home of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Bruce. Mrs. Bruce is the former Nina Johnston. Don was now an outstadning Lieutenant in the Navy Aviation Corps. I certainly enjoyed visiting all my old classmates, and when I had completed my trip, I returned to New York City once again to con- tinue the routine duties of a stenographer. La Vonne Mae Sperl. Page 14 SENIOR WILL i The Senior class of Forty-three Presents seven seniors bright as can be, They’ve labored on so endlessly, These bequeaths are given now with glee. II To the magnanimous class of Forty-four, We give to you forever more. The danged old school house, with the creaking floors, And the “Books of Knowledge,’’ and “Why We Are At War.” III Now to Anna Louise, who’s always gay, We leave the most popular songs of the day, So that she may continue in a most progressive way. IV What so fine could we leave to Bill, Perhaps Congas, gum, and our good will, Which is the dearest wish of our hearts to fill. ,« V To Virginia, who’s most studious and wise, We leave all the books as her prize. Because she’ll make good use of them before much time flies. VI And now this car so very new, We leave to Marion who, Will no doubt certainly enjoy it too! VII Next in line, is Dorothy, a very clever miss. To her we leave an enormous kiss, ’Course, we’re sure she’ll appreciate this! VIII To George who’s never seen in a riot. We leave serene pesce and quiet, The very essentials of perfect “delight.” IX Then there’s Mary Jane, the most winsome of souls. To her we leave green valleys and knolls, Because these are excellent places for strolls.! C n Page 15 COMMENCEMENT Commencement exercises for the class of 1943 were held at the Ranchester Community Hall May 20, at 8:00 p. m. The Processional was plgyed by Virginia Bruce, and the Girls Sex- tet furnished the musical numbers. Donald Bruce was the Salutatorian and Nina Marie Johnston was the Valedictorian. Mr. C. J. Oviatt presented the address. Mr. Burch presented the honors and diplomas. The gudience participated in singing the “Star Spangled Banner.” This was followed by the Recessional. BACCALAUREATE The Seniors of the Ranchester and Dayton High Schools held a joint baccalaureate service at the Ranchester Hall Sunday. May 16. Reverend E. J. Bernthal, Pastor of the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Sheridan, conducted the exercises. Both schools presented musical numbers. BANQUET The annual Junior-Senior banquet was held Saturday, May 15, at the club room. The Army Air Corp was used for the theme. The senior colors, red and white, were used for decorations. From the blue ceiling hung model air planes, while the place cards and menus were carried out in theme also. William Tschirgi of the Junior class was the toastmaster. John Kuzma of the Senior class gave the response. Musical numbers and solos were rendered by Dorothy Schreibeis, Anna Louise Cable, Mary Jane Walters, and Virginia Bruce. Nina Johnston read the Senior Will and LaVonne read the prophecy. After the banquet the Seniors, Juniors, Faculty members and guests attended the Owl show at the Wyo Theatre in Sheridan. � Page 16 Juniors 44 ENROLLMENT George Kukuchka Marion Wondra Billy Tschirgi Mary Jane Walters Dorothy Schreibeis Virginia Bruce Anna Louise Cable MOTTO . . . Launched, but not anchored. COLORS . . . Orchid and green. FLOWER . . . Snap Dragon. AND SO: When school opened in September eight Juniors enrolled. After a few months Mike Kukuchka and William Hauf dropped school. At the beginning of the second semester, Mary Jane Walters, who had been attending school at Clearmont, joined the class. Class officers included Billy Tschirgi, president; Dorothy Schrei- beis, vice president; Virginia Bruce, secretary-treasurer; Marhn Won- dra and Billy Tschirgi. student council representatives. PROM The Junior-Senior prom was held with Dayton, April 30, at the Dayton Community Hall. The hall was decorated in pink and red. Two shields placed at the end of the hall were decorated in the two senior class colors and high school initials. The grand march was at ten o’clock. About fifty couples enjoyed dancing to the music of Harvey Dean’s orchestra. Page 19 Sophomores ::::::::::::::::::::::: ,45 ENROLLMENT Vincent Johnston Frank Kawulok Martin Schilling; Doris Kawulok Betty Jo Dierks Wanda Melby MOTTO . . . Live, learn, and like it. COLORS . . . Blue and white. FLOWER . . . American Beauty Rose. NEXT: The tenth graders chose Frank Kawulok as their president. Wanda Melby was the vice president, and Vincent Johnston was secretary. Doris Kawulok was student council representative and Betty Jo Dierks was class treasurer. Martin Schilling didn’t enter the class until late in the year, and Clair Reed was a member of the class for a few weeks. William Hauf dropped school in March. OUR CLASS One look from Sonny Out of those big blue eyes, And a sweet smile from Wanda That would win any beauty prize; A kind word from Doris That makes yoy think what an angel she is, And when Martin goes into action You are convinced he is a whiz; When Frank speaks so very politely “Here’s a fine young man,” folks say, And Betty Jo looks angelic and shy You’ll think at the end of the day That this is the most perfect Sophomore class One could possibly discover, But remember the saying that goes like this: “You can’t judge a book by its cover!” Page 20 Freshmen -..... ENROLLMENT Georgia Bruce Ileene Weber Loren Rubottom Denzil Madron Jared Hallowell Ben Schreibeis MOTTO . . . “Semper Fidelis” COLORS . . . Red, white and blue. FLOWER . . . White Carnation. WE “FRESHIES”: On election day we chose Denzil Madron for our president; Maxine Weber, vice president; Georgia Bruce, secretary; Ilene Weber, treas- urer; and Jared Hallowell, Student Council Representative. INITIATION The student body and faculty were entertained in an assembly pro- gram by the Freshmen at the beginning of the school term. They had to wear silly costumes all one day. In the evening we had a roller skating party, and “hot dogs” were served for lunch. Just to give you an idea of what we saw, here is how they looked: Ben—Lady ballet dancer. jared—A “sleep-walker” who said his prayers before he went to bed. Denzil—The absent-minded professor. Ileene—A Jap. Maxine—A Nazi. Loren—A brownie. Georgia—Boxing champion. “Slug.” Dallas—Girl. (Gypsy). Jasper—Hula hula girl. All in all, they didn’t do so bad, did they? In the latter part of the year Maxine Weber and Dallas Newlon dropped school. Jasper Russell joined the Marines. Page 21 Did You Know? Seniors LaVonne Sperl Likes—Haworth Dislikes—late hours Always found—primping Aim—W. A. A. C. Nina Marie Johnston Likes—vacation Dislikes—speeches Always found—with Don Aim—be a detective John Kuzma Likes—girls Dislikes—birds Always found—Monarch Aim—Marine pilot Anna Kawulok Likes—sailors Dislikes—early hours Always found—writing letters Aim—WAVE Jack Kawulok Likes—to type Dislikes—studying Always found—playing ball Aim—see the world Roberta Strait Likes—liver and onions Dislikes—work Always found—talking Aim—get to Bellgrade Don Bruce Likes—Nina Dislikes—rules Always found—eating Aim—Navy aviator Juniors Anna Louise Cable Likes—music Dislikes—exams Always found—singing Aim—Opera singer Bill Tschirgi Likes—to Conga Dislikes—girls Always found—with girls Aim—to be a doctor Dorothy Schreibeis Likes—to whistle Dislikes—being teased Always found—with Wanda Aim—to be a fighter Virginia Bruce Likes—music Dislikes—noise Always found—studying Aim—world traveler Marion Wondra Likes—fishing Dislikes—car trouble Always found—chasing rabbits - Aim—sheep herder George Kukuchka Likes—spaghetti Dislikes—Math Always found—at Early Creek Aim—farmer Mary Jane Walters Likes—sunflower seeds Dislikes—school Always found—writing notes Aim—to graduate (?) 1 on Page 30) Page 22 S 9 £ i r fc , L i r _Bi U it I. 1 iRG i V ifl Ml G eoHoe $ k i. ,V... JJoftofH? rinay Tbhil flwtfrt Louise % J1 I 1 J I7 8 ft K. % I : id PI ARTIK nil l flNDfl I er ry Jo -f� iiH L o l?eM HI • J. I «.«. nr e. rlflsio JD O K i S 1 fiN CtKf De vziil JB Red IB e. nr The Junior High ENROLLMENT Seventh Grade John Bruce Raymond Johnston Don Johnson Patricia McDonald William Kukucka Raymond Weber Bobby Weber Patty Newlon Ruth Schreibeis Betty Kuzma Raymond Focht Eighth Grade Bert Johnston Helen Kawulok Delores Madron James Strait Jerry Dierks Elaine Kawulok Albert Wondra Eddie Kukuchka Hilda Hauf Dorothy Kawulok Gerald Schilling MOTTO . . . Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched. COLORS . . . Yellow and brown. FLOWER . . . Flowering Cactus. Those 7th and 8th Graders! At the beginning of the school term the new pupils who enrolled were Betty Kuzma, Elaine Kawulok and Albert Wondra. During the second semester Raymond Focht moved, and Patsy McDonald left for Casper. Class officers were Albert Wondrr, president, and the vice presi- dent was Jerry Dierks. The secretary-treasurer was Elaine Kawulok and Betty Kuzma was the representative to the Student Council. The seventh and eighth graders entertained at a roller skating party and took an active part in all the school events. Page 25 EIGHTH GRADE WILL We, the Eighth Grade Class of Ranchester School. County of Sher- idan, State of Wyoming, being of sound mind and disposing memory do hereby declare this our last will and testament. To the Junior High Room we leave memories of the happy days we spent there, hoping that all the details will remain a secret. We endow the faculty with our sense of humor, since we have enough and then some. Individual Bequeaths: I. Bert Johnston, bequeath my position as “chief heckler” to Ray- mond Johnston. I, Helen Kawulok, leave pleasant memories for Don Johnson. I, Dolores Msdron, bestow upon Ruth Schreibeis my quiet manner and sweet disposition. I, James Strait, give my permission to Raymond Weber to tell the tall tales I used to tell. I, Jerry Dierks, bequeath my acting ability to Raymond Focht. I, Elaine Kawulok. leave my glamour for Patty Newlon. I, Albert Wondra, will my gold sweater to John Bruce. I, Eddie Kukuchka, bequeath my self-control to Bobby Weber. I, Hilda Hauf, grznt my permission to giggle to Betty Kuzma. I. Dorothy Kawulok, leave my pep for William Kukucka. I, Gerald Schilling, give Patsy McDonald my best wishes. Page 26 G R l D E_ Intermediate Room LENA R. SEIG, Teacher ENROLLMENT Fourth Grade Bobby Russell Tommie Fiedor Raymond Kawulok Eugene Fackenthal LaVon Newlon Betty Lucile Goodill Margaret Kukuchka Dale Schilling Frankie Kukuchka Sixth Grade Catherine Fiedor Bobby Hauf Helen Kukuchka Anton Kawulok Dick Reed Kathleen Sperl Jimmie Kelsey Fifth Grade Julia Mae Cable Roberta Lee Goodill Arnold Tschirgi Betty Jean Weber MOTTO . . . We live to learn, as we learn to live. FLOWER . . . Indian Paint Brush. COLORS . . . Red. white and blue. SYMBOL ... V for Victory. No one has left our room. The attendance has been very regular. All absences have been caused by illness or severely cold weather. A vital activity this year has been the sale of war bonds and stamps. Our room responded very generoulsy. Everyone also worked hard in collecting material for our scrap drive. (Continued on Page 30) The year has been outstanding in its accompiishment, because of the interest and diligent study which has identified it. Splendid in- dividual work has been done by the pupils. The social events included a Hallowe’en party; a Christmas tree and play; a Valentine party, also a number of room parties. A very successful and entertaining Operetta was also given. In sports the usual games of football, baseball and marbles were popular. At the spring marble tournament, D?le Schilling, who rep- resented the third and fourth grades, won the grand championship. The art work has consisted of posters, handicraft, maps and num- erous other things. The posters have been made in connection with the studies of Health, Safety, Courtesy ?nd Citizenship. As no fair is to be held this year, the art work has been used as a school exhibit. Many homes have sent sons, brothers or dear friends into the arm- ed forces. Everyone misses their loved ones and earnestly hope for their safe and speedy return. In order to hasten this, each one has pledged to do all he can to help in the production of food that will aid in bringing success and victory. Until September calls us again to our studies, we say Adios. SOPHOMORES Vincent Johnston Likes—the outdoors Dislikes—book reports Always found—with Elaine Aim—respectable bum Martin Schilling Likes—Dayton Dislikes—women Always found—at Dayton Aim—radio announcer v. Betty Jo Dierks Likes—chicken Dislikes—blondes Always found—working Aim—Navy nurse Doris Kawulok Likes—Bill G. Dislikes—custfrd pie Always found—disturbing the peace Aim—to be a nurse Frank Kawulok Likes—peppermints Dislikes—too many boys Always found—with girls Aim—Army Air Corps Wanda Melby Likes—Jack Dislikes—competition Always found.—everywhere Aim—to be a secretary (Continued on Page 32) Page 30 Primary Room MRS. E. J. JOHNSON, Teacher ENROLLMENT First Grade Second Grade Billy Russell Twila Kawulok Norma Hauf Joe Fiedor LeRoy Sieweki Myrna Bachlet Richard Rubottom Joan Johnson Jack Russell David Hallowell Vida Newlon Jeanette Kawulok Doris Hauf Barbara Fleming Dick Masters Dorothy Hauf Third Grade Shirley Lewis Donald Lee Graham Darlene Fleming Dona Madron Beverly Barbula Joan Fiedor ,T • ' � .- The Primary Room has had a very interesting year. The pupils have worked very hard to prepare for the future. They took part in “Parents' Night.” They also helped in the Christmas entertainment. During the year the students have had special parties on holidays. During this time they made decorations in art to carry out the seas- onal holidays, or months. On April 19. the Primary group gave a music rhythm demonstra- tion for the Women’s Club. (Continued on Page 32) Page 31 On April 30th they gave a program for the mothers. They also participated in the operetta given in May. They had prepared a specialty number for the County Choir, but it was postponed because of the measles. They have all enjoyed this year. FRESHMEN Ilene Weber Likes—dancing Dislikes—sleep Always found—at parties Aim—general’s wife Denzil Madron Likes—airplanes Dislikes—taking orders Always found—joking Aim—Mad Russian the 2nd Georgia Bruce Likes—Jared Dislikes—cats Always found—talking Aim—housewife Jared Hallowell Likes—Georgia Dislikes—Algebra Always found—reading history Aim—journalist Ben Schreibeis Likes—to pester Dislikes—teachers Always found—sleeping Aim—hasher Loren Rubottom Likes—Buffalo Dislikes—dsnees Always found—delivering milk Aim—truck driver Page 32 ACTIVITIES f Sept. 8. 15. 18. 21. 25. Oct. 6. 9. 22-23. 23. 27-30. 30. Nov. 2. 3. 4. 5. 9. 11. 13. 17. 18-20. 24. 25. 26-27. 30. School Year 1942 - 1943 Vacation over so soon? Class meetings and officers were elected. We will have class meetings the first Thursday of each month. Freshman initiation today. More fun—for the Freshies? No, you dope, for the rest of us. Teachers’ meeting. Do you suppose they were “ganging up” on us, fellas? We have our first student council meeting. LeRoy the wizard. He manages to get the best of Bertie and Raymond, anyway. 32-6 in fsvor of the Rustlers. Yes. sir, we beat Lodge Grass in the first football game of the season. Talk about hard luck! Teachers institute was cancelled. Ranchester defeats the Dayton Elks. You really made a showing today, gang. Some of the High School students helped harvest sugar beets. The rest of us spent our time at school. There was a Hallowe’en Party tonight. Maxine and Virgil Graham won the boxes of candy. There was a “spook” booth and fishing pond for the little tots and the rest of us danced and played bingo. Ranchester played Lodge Grass here. We have our first hot lunch. Election day. We had a “try-out” election at school, too. Health pictures. There is an athletic meeting at Gillette. We won’t have a pre-season tournament. Beginning of National Education Week. Armistice Day—and Victory Day for the Rustler football squad. They really “trimmed” the Big Horn Rams in a game at Central Field in Sheridan. 69-16. In favor of the Rustlers in a game at Dayton. Pic- ture shows at school. We planned to romp on the Big Horn Rams again, but no such luck. You would have to sprain your leg in the first quarter, Don! Rationing registration. Another headache! This was parents’ night. We held classes so that Ma and Pa could see their “little darlings” at work in the classroom. End of the second six weeks and Mr. Davis is leaving us. The 7th and 8th graders surprised him with a cigarette shower. Thanksgiving vacation. School doesn’t start until 9:30 now. A little sleep in the morning, huh? Page 35 Dec. 4. 9. 14. 16. 18. 22. 23. Jan. 1. 8. 13. 16. 20. 22. 23. Feb. 2. 5. 9. 16. 17. 19. 25. 26-27. The Sophomores invited us ell to a party at the school house. We played “ghost” and had several relay races. Betty Jo is the best “Neck-tie tier.” First basketball practice. No lights! What’s the idea? Ranchester is having a prac- tice blackout. Freshman Class Party. Everyone came to the school house and played games. Clearmont here. We’ll do better the next time. Christmas program. The music class sings. The Primary and Intermediate rooms present skits. Christmas vacation begins. We had a Christmas program at school and exchanged gifts. Before one could receive his gift he had to perform some stunt before the assembly. Thank you for the defense stamps, teachers. Happy New Year ! ! ! Clearmont—there. We show Dayton how to play ball! The Rustlers prove their ability by defeating the Sheridan Colts. The Baby Rustlers try hard but the Holy Name team is victorious. Dayton Elks, there. This game was by far the most ex- citing game of the season. Ranchester nosed out a 14-12 victory. Dayton invited us to stay for dancing afterwards. Holy Name, there. The Junior High played the Hill School in a preliminary to the Sheridan-Buffalo game. Sheridan “Colts” here. The Rustlers are victorious. Dayton tries hard, but the Ranchester team won’t be defeat- ed! The pep club girls get more excited than the players. We lose to the Big Horn Rams. Hill School, here—and also Tongue R. M. C. game. A large crowd attended the Junior Play, “The Custers’ Last Stand.” We all had some “laughs.” Afterwards everyone went dancing. Big Horn here. Junior High Basketball Tournament at Buffalo. We hear that you had a good time, boys! Page 36 March 2. 4. 15-16. 20. 26. 30. April 2. 12. 14. 16. 23. 30. May 15. 16. 18-19-20. 20. 21. Basketball Benefit. The “Jack Man” was a very exciting (?) picture show. All the girls brought boxes and after supper tJ PCPf1- Northeastern Basketball Tournament at Gillette. The pep Club wanted to go SO badly. From what we hear the team didn’t miss us too much, though. No school because of cold weather. Red Cross Benefit sponsored by the Ranchester Ladies Club. Games of bridge and pinochle were played and we had an “old-timp” dance. The rules seemed to be “each one for himself” at the Junior High skating party. Tick fever clinic. Navy-Army tests. Johnny was the only one who took the exams. Don is in the Navy and Jasper is in the Marines. The Junior Class goes to Dayton to make plans for the prom. “A beautiful sun-shiny, spring day” and the Seniors skip school. It really was a “sneak day,” too. The music class went to Sheridan and were judged excellent plus and superior. Congratulations! Good Friday. Deadline set for the completion of the annual. (Editor’s note—Anna Louise is home because her sister has the measles. Whew, wonder if we’ll ever finish this book?) Junior-Senior Prom at Dayton. Oh, what a wonderful night! Billy invites some of the upper-classmen to dinner. At Dayton, a swell time. Junior-Senior Banquet. A delicious dinner, beautiful cor- sages, and a good show. Baccalaureate. Final tests- Lots of last minute cramming. Commencement. T e last flay qf school. We get our report cards, check in books, throw away our test papers, and get ready for A summer vacation. Page 37 BOARD OF EDITORS Editor Nina Marie Johnston Assistant Editor Advertising Managers Billy Tschirgi Dorothy Schreibeis Production Managers George Kukuchka Jack Kawulok Subscription Manager _ Mary Jane Walters Sports Editors John Kuzma Marion Wondra Class News Reporters La Vonne Mae Sperl Anna Kawulok Roberta Strait Typist Faculty Advisors Mrs. Burch Miss Kuzma tr Our annual was organized as an extra-cur- ricular activity, and most of the work was done by the Juniors and Seniors during the activity period and after school. Our motto was: “It is better to try and fail, than not to try at all.” Page 38 Music Anna Louise Cable Dorothy Schreibeis Ileene Weber Maxine Weber Mary Jane Walters Georgia Bruce Doris Kawulok Jasper Russell Donald Bruce Virginia Bruce, Accompanist. The music class has been under the direction of Mrs. E. J. Johnson. All of our work was done after her teaching hours. Our main goal was voice technique and everyone has worked hard on it. During the year Jasper and Don left our music class to enlist in the armed forces. We wish them good luck. Maxine also dropped out of school, leaving our music class minus one student. On April 16. the music class was judged by A. E. Edgar, a judge from Iowa State College. The chorus was rated excellent plus. Anna Louise Cable, mezzo soprano, was rated superior. The music depart- ment was very proud of the honors brought to their school. Page 39 The Junior Play Cast James Custer—the father of the Custer household Harriet Custer—his wife _____________ _____ Emogene Custer—his unmarried sister Jimmy Custer—his son ................ ...... Johnny Newsom—his cousin ................... Esther Custer—Jimmy’s attractive sister Terence Van Ayrsdale—her fiance from Boston Lsvinia Platt—a spinster from the east_ ... Lavernia Platt—her spinster sister Betty Van Ayrsdale—Terence’s youthful aunt Claire Van Ayrsdale—Betty’s sister Georgy Little Bear—a homeless Indian waif Miss Kuzma, Director Marion Wondra Dorothy Schreibeis Anna Louise Cable Billy Tschirgi George Kukuchka ... Ilene Weber Vincent Johnston _. Georgia Bruce Virginia Bruce Wanda Melby Mary Walters Jerry Dierks This year’s gay, spontaneous Junior play was “THE CUSTERS’ LAST STAND,” a new farce by that versatile playwright. Wm. D. Fisher. The plot was a moving, humorous one. The setting was typ- ically Western. The play was enjoyed by everyone—even the actors themselves! Jimmy Custer and Johnny Newsom, upon learning that their two maiden aunts-to-be are arriving from Boston and after intercepting an insulting telegram from them, decide to give them a welcome they’ll never forget. But the two old maids whom they frighten away are not related to them at all. Unknowingly they tell how they frightened these two innocent old maids away to their real aunts-to-be, who are two young girls. Then they have to fight to keep their real aunts from going away. SHOWS Our first show was presented by the State Health Department. Pictures were shown on proper health habits and first aid. Other edu- cational pictures were about the steel industry and Alaska. The Uni- versity of Wyoming also sent pictures which had been taken on their campus. “The Jack Man” was the feature shown at the benefit show for the basketball team. There was also a news reel about China and a comedy. During the last six weeks Mr. Ingram showed pictures on the care of a tractor. Page 40 % STUDENT COUNCIL President —............. Don Bruce Vice President Mina Johnston Secretary ................................ Billy Tschirgi Junior Representative — Marion Wondra Sophomore Representative.................. Doris Kawulok Freshman Representative ----------- — — Jared Hallowell Junior High Representative --------------- Betty Kuzma The Student Council, cpr representative body consisting of dele- gates from the high school and junior high, was first organized in 1935. We followed the same plans of organization this year with the exception of pur new practice of choosing two Senior class represen- tatives, two from the Junior class and one each from the Sophomore Freshman and Junior High groups. The delegates met and elected their own officers. Meetings were held this year the first Tuesday of each month. The main duties of the Council are to set dates for school parties, appoint committees, and decide questions that pertain to student ac- tivities and welfare. THE AMERICAN CREED I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sover- eign natiop of many sovereign states; a perfect union, one and insep- arable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality and justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it; to sup- port its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag; and to defend it against all enemies. —William Tyler Page. Page 43 HOT LUNCH PROJECT To improve the physical well-being of the school children of Ran- chester High School and to secure proper nutrition for them, a hot lunch project was begun. The lunches are prepared in a specially arranged hot-lunch room by Mrs. Maxstead, the cook. The students are served cafeteria style. Each menu, in so far as possible, provides a hot food, bread and butter, a beverage, and some dessert. The price of these lunches is $1.40 a month. 40c a week, or 7c per day. The price was placed at a minimum so that lunches would be within the reach of all. It is hoped that this project will be continued during the coming year. PARENTS’ NIGHT On the night of November 24, we invited the parents to attend school to see our classroom, the material from which we studied, and how the classes were conducted. The parents were entertained by all the students. That evening we gave a First Aid demonstration on how to apply splints and give artificial respiration. We also had Sociology. General Science, and English classes. After the classes and entertainment were over, Mrs. Maxstead served sandwiches and coffee from the hot lunch room. Page 44 History of R. H. S By DOROTHY SCHREIBEIS The history of Ranchester High School starts with a little tar paper shack built in 1899, which was located near the center of the town. The next school building was on the corner of Main Street and Dayton Avenue. Until 1908 the school was in District No. 24; then it was organized as District No. 33. The district is nine miles long and four miles wide. In 1913 a two-room cement building was erected and was used until 1922 when it was remodeled for use as a gymnasium. In 1921 an election was held for the purpose of voting bonds which resulted in the present two-story, ten-room brick building. It was decided that a high school should be established, and ac- cordingly in 1913 special subjects were offered in the ninth and tenth grades. In 1922 the school met the requirements for standardization. In 1924 courses were offered in the eleventh and twelfth grades, and in May. 1926, the first class graduated from Ranchester High School. The school met the requirements as set forth by the State Department in 1925 for a four-year accredited high school. School activities that we have had are Student Council, Pep Club, Orchestra, The Rustler, Class Plays, Tattler. Junior and Senior “R” clubs, Student Court and Glee Club. In athletics we have had basket- ball, football, baseball, marbles, horseshoes, and other minor sports. The average number of students that have graduated each year has been six. In 1937 the Alumni Association was organized. Page 45 ALUMNI At present the members of the Ranchester Alumni are scattered all over the world. They organized an association in 1937, and held a banquet each spring. This group was active in promoting educational interest and cre- ating good will among the high school students and alumni members. In 1941 the Rustler was dedicated to the alumni group and in 1942 it was dedicated to those members who were in the armed service of the United States. Although most of the 4-H club activities are carried on during the summer, they were organized near the end of the school term. Instead of organizing several small clubs this year, the various groups of boys and girls who took gardening, bees, chickens, beef and lambs, joined together and formed one large club. The leader is Paul Paustian. Ben Schreibeis is the president; .dike Kukuchka, vice president; Vincent Johnston, secretary-treasurer, and Helen Kawulok, song leader. AMERICAN WIT “Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects.” —Will Rogers. ‘Too many people don’t care what happens so long as it doesn’t happen to them.’’ —William Howard Taft. “It is hard for an empty bag to stand upright.” —Benjamin Franklin. Page 46 FOOTBALL The Ranchester Rustler six-man football squad consisted of five lettermen, Don Bruce, John Kuzma, Marion Wondra, Vincent Johnston and Frank Kawulok, and four potential mail carriers, Jasper Russell. Denzil Madron, Dallas Newlon and Ben Schreibeis. Some considered the Rustler football team the best in the confer- ence this year although they only placed second. Hard luck occurred in two of the three games played with Big Horn. In the first game John Kuzma, a first-string h: lfback, was unable to play, and in the third and championship game Don Bruce, a fullback, was removed from the game because of an injury. The Rustlers played several games and had much opposition even though war regulations hindered transportation. Ranchester was proud to be one of the schools which carried out the physical education program in coordination with defense plans, despite many obstacles. SCORES We They Lodge Gran _________________________ 82 6 Big Horn____________________________ 6 24 Lodge Grass__________________________12 18 Big Horn 14 6 Dayton 69 16 Big Horn ------------------------ 0 18 BASKETBALL Ten men were out for practice at the beginning of the ’42-’43 basketball season. The veterans were Don Bruce, John Kuzma. Willy Hauf, Marion Wondra, Vincent Johnston and Frank Kawulok. and the Freshman players included Denzil Madron, Dallas Newlon. Jared Hallowell and Ben Schreibeis. At the end of the first semester Don Bruce graduated, but two pl?yers entered school to help with the games. They were Martin Schilling and Clair Reed. The Rustlers didn’t play as many games as they did last year, because of the transportation difficulties. They had no games with Kaycee, Arvada and Lodge Grass. There was no pre-season tournament held this year, but the team took part in the Northeastern Basketball Tournament at Gillette. Here they were defeated by the Big Horn Rams and the Upton Bobcats. Page 47 JUNIOR HIGH BASKETBALL The Baby Rustlers played eight exciting games this winter. The team was noted for good sportsmanship and hard playing. Whether they were winning or losing the players showed determination not to give up. Members of the team were Jerry Dierks, Eddie Kukuchka, Gerald Schilling, Bert Johnston, Raymond Johnston, Raymond Weber. Bobby Weber. Don Johnson, Johnny Bruce. In February they entered the grade school tournament at Buffalo. MARBLES Three grade school boys entered the county marble tournament in Sheridan. The first and second grade representative was Jackie Russell; Dale Schilling was the third and fourth grade representative, and Bobby Hauf went from the fifth end sixth grades. Dale won the county championship, and received two trophy cups. MINOR SPORTS The Seventh and Eighth grade boys played football this fall, and both the boys and girls were interested in softball this spring. For many, pitching horseshoes seemed to be the favorite pastime. PEP CLUB The high school girl’s pep club was organized again with Georgia Bruce as the president. Miss Kuzma was our sponsor. Georgia, Anna Kawulok and Ilene Weber were the cheer leaders. Our motto, “Win or lose, we’re proud of ‘youse’,” was made in fun. We always remembered it. though, because we felt that good sportsmanship was what really counted in all games, and the Ran- chester boys showed even temper and fair playing at all times. The club had a pop corn sale, and also helped the boys with plans for the basketball benefit show and box supper. Page 48 ARE YOU KIDDING?” A man went into a small town store and asked: “What have you in the shape of automobile tires?” The man replied: “Life preservers, funeral wreaths, and dough- nuts.” A courtship begins when a man whispers sweet nothings, and ends when he says nothing sweet. Anna: “What’s the matter? You surely look worried.” La Vonne: “Work—work—nothing but work from morning till night.’’ Anna: “How long have you been at it?” La Vonne: “Oh, I start tomorrow.” Johnny: “But officer, I am a high school student.” Officer: “You’ll go to jail just the same; ignorance is no excuse.” Miss Kuzma: “It gave me great pleasure to give you a 90 in English.” Marion: “Aw, make it a 100 and enjoy yourself.” Private: “I feel like telling that sergeant what I think of him again.” Other Private: “Again?” Private: “Yes, I felt like it yesterday, too.” Dorothy: “What is meant by ‘college bred’?” Bill: “College bred means a wad of dough, with plenty of crust, and a lot of crumbs gathered together for a good loaf.” “HOW D’YE FEEL?” “Corkin’,” said the bottle. “Rotten,” said the apple. “Punk,” said the firecracker. “Fine,” said the police judge. “Fit, said the tailor. “First rate,” said the postmaster “Grate.” said the coal. “Grand,” said the piano. “All done up,” said the shirt. “Ripping,” said the trousers. “Keen,” said the knife. Page 51 Stenographer: “Is water works all one word, or do you spell it with a hydrant in the middle?” George: “There’s surely a change in cars lately.” Betty Jo: “How’s that?” George: “Well, in 1940 no running board; 1941, no gear shift; 1942. no car.” Pat: “What do you charge for a funeral notice in your paper?” Editor: “Fifty cents an inch.” Pat: “Good heavens! An’ me poor brother was six feet high.” Mr. Burch: “I am to speak on liars today. How many of you have read the 25th chapter of the text?” Nearly every student raised his hand. Mr. Burch: “Good, you are the very group to whom I wish to speak. There is no 25th chapter.” Lady: “Well, well—changing a tire, young man?” Young Man: “No, madam, not at all. I just get out every few miles and jack the car up to save rubber and gas.” “Doctor, how do you tell if a person is insane?” “Oh, we merely ask him a few ordinary questions which ordinary people can answer correctly.” “What type of question?” “Well, this is the sort of thing: Captain Cook made three voyages around the world and died on one of them. Which was it?” “I think that’s a bit steep. I’m not very good at history.” Patsy: “Queer looking socks you have, one red and the other green.” Don J.: “Yep, and I have another pair at home just like ’em.” “My wife told me to ask you for a raise.” “All right. I’ll ask my wife if I can give you one.” “When you jump,” said the officer to the parachutist about to make his first leap, “count to ten and pull the rip cord. If nothing happens, count ten more and pull the second rip cord. When you get down, a truck will be waiting to take you back to camp.” The rookie jumped out of the plane, counted to ten, pulled the first cord. Nothing happened. He counted to ten once more, pulled the second cord. Again nothing happened. Said he, in disgust: “Phooey, I’ll bet that truck won’t even be down there, and I’ll have to walk back to camp.” Page 52 PATRONIZE THE RUSTLER ADVERTISERS To all those who so cheerfully and gladly gave support to the Rustler through its advertising pages the 1943 staff extends its . . . THANKS Ranchester Black and Johnson Fresh Meats and Groceries V. C. Johnston Lumber and Hardware Everything for Better Homes Gateway Station Sovereign Service Burlington Bus Depot Ranchester Service Station W. S. Tschirgi, Prop. N. U. Bar Fred Prill, Prop. Ranchester Garage Virgil Graham, Prop. Ranchester State B nk C. C. Rawlings, Cashier Dayton Mountain Inn Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hanft, Props. Stockman’s Bar Denver Sherman, Prop. Caple’s Grocery S. L. Caple. Prop. Corner Grocery Ethel Wilson, Prop. Dayton Cafe Page 55 Sheridan Wyoming Hatchery Reed Mortuary Green Plumbing Company Northern Seed Company Brouillette’s Hagele Jewelers Sheridan Greenhouse Company Stevens, Fryberger Co., Ire The Jersey Creamery Otto F. Ernst. Inc. Dr. Crane Sheridan Commercial Co. Hammer-Staunton Co. Sheridan Beauty College Mossholders Furniture Co. Boston Store Carroll’s Furniture Co. First National Bank — ,, | Dr. Duncan The Sheridan Star C. W. Jorgenson Emily’s Beauty Shop Sheridan Stationery Co. Ideal Cleaners Co. The Mills Co. Modern Shoe Shop New York Life Insurance C. W. Young Champion’s Funeral Home Mervin Champion Brown algreen Agency Drug Co. Rangeland Lithographing Co. J. P. Croff City Bakery Sawyer’s Stores, Inc. Riley Motor Co. Salt Creek Transportation Co. Wyoming Automotive Co. Schreibeis Bakery Tschirgi Hardware Market Rochford’s Studio Sheridan Furniture Co. Quick Printing Co. Golden Rule Store Page 56 D. H. Shelton Sons Band Box Cleaners Pioneer Water Mill Eagle Shoe Shop Farmers Consumers Store Barton Battery Electric Co. Kellner Goar’s Shoe Store Fost Office News Stand New Method Shoe Shop Bank of Commerce Complete Banking Service Dr. Denison Mid-Continent Oil Co. KWYO Radio Station Sheridan County Electric Co. Sheridan Brewing Co. Shadoan’s Men’s Store Wigwam Bakery B. 0. Bentley Rudy Mudra’s Saddle Shop Wyo Shoe Shop Casper Supply Co. Superior Laundry Vaughn Ragsdale City Cleaning Dyeing Co. Sheridan Photo Service Sheridan Flouring Mills, Inc. Bert Brooks Sheridan Wyo Coal Co. Monarch, Wyoming Masters Engravers Co. Portland, Oregon San-i -Dairy Sheridan Press §t IN SCHOOL DAYS By OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES Still sits the school-house by the road, A ragged beggar sleeping; Around it still the sumachs grow, And blackberry vines are creeping. Within, the master’s desk is seen, Deep scarred by raps official; The warping floor, the battered seats. The jack-knife’s carved initial. The charcoal frescoes on its wall; Its door’s worn sill, betraying The feet that, creeping slow to school, Went storming out to playing! Long years ago a winter sun Shone over it at setting; Lit up its western window-panes. And low eaves’ icy fretting. It touched the tangled golden curls, And brown eyes full of grieving, Of one who still her steps delayed When all the school were leaving. For near her stood the little boy Her childish favor singled: His cap pulled low upon a face Where pride and shame were mingled. Pushing with restless feet the snow To right and left, he lingered;— As restlessly her tiny hands The blue-checked apron fingered. He saw her lift her eyes; he felt Her soft hand’s light caressing, And heard the tremble of her voice, As if a fault confessing. “I’m sorry that I spelt the word: I hate to go above you, Because,”—the brown eyes lower fell,— “Because, you see, I love you!” Still memory to a gray-haired man That sweet child-face is showing. Dear girl! The grasses on her grave Have forty years been growing! He lives to learn, in life’s hard school, How few who pass above him Lament their triumph and his loss. Like her,—because they love him. Page 58