A Forest native who chronicled events while he was a high school student in the late 1960s and early 1970s will hold a book signing Thursday, Oct. 16. The special event will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Foothills Restaurant on Hwy. 35 South in Forest. <\/p>\n
Bubby Johnston, a 1971 Forest High School graduate, recently completed a historical document titled, The Bearcat Way.<\/p>\n
Johnston explained the meaning of his book title, which features the FHS mascot.<\/p>\n
\u201cFirst, it means doing what it takes and being the best one can be to win championships in sports, to receive All-Superior ratings at state band, piano and speech competition, to win a state pageant and place first-runner-up in the national event\u2026and achieve other successes earned by doing everything the right way\u2026The Bearcat Way,\u201d said Johnston.<\/p>\n
He added, \u201cIt also means adjusting to a new way of life\u2026school integration\u2026and working together for a common goal\u2026success in all areas.\u201d The 1970-71 school year marked the first year of full integration of Forest schools.<\/p>\n
Johnston stated his book also includes information on how Forest schools prepared for full integration. The first chapter, however, is about the first black student to attend Forest High School and later graduate in 1967.<\/p>\n
On a lighter note, but serious to those involved, a chapter includes the story of several male students who were disciplined for their \u201clong hair.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBut to me,\u201d Johnston continued, \u201cthere is no better way to explain The Bearcat Way than the story about former FHS football players who donated their time and efforts to help a beloved coach battling cancer. These guys are true and dedicated Bearcats in every way.\u201d<\/p>\n
Johnston also wanted to recognize numerous \u201cBearcats\u201d for their assistance in providing information for the book and helping with editing, etc.<\/p>\n
\u201cI will forever be appreciative and grateful to the many friends who helped with this project,\u201d he said. \u201cI am very blessed.\u201d<\/p>\n
Johnston\u2019s book retails for $27, which includes sales tax. Books may also be purchased via mail when cost of postage is determined. Checks should be made payable to Boonedocks Publishing.<\/p>\n
Johnston resides in Quitman with his wife, the former Janet Harris.<\/p>\n