For many years, the OC hallways and classrooms have been “home”to this graduating class of 65 seniors who completed this chapter oftheir life journey on May 15th in St. Landry Catholic Church. It wasthen that the 159th Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement wascelebrated by OC Chancellor, the Reverend Monsignor Keith J.DeRouen. He was assisted by others on our Board of Pastors alongwith Deacon Dwayne Joubert (OC 1983) as proud family memberslooked on.

The prestigious American Legion and four-year Religion awardsalong with the Father J. Wilson Matt Little Light of Mine Scholarshipwere bestowed upon selected graduates as shown in the pictures onthis page. As a special tribute to Mr. Perry Fontenot who waspresiding as principal over his last graduation ceremony beforeretiring, Msgr. Keith DeRouen presented him with a Bishop’s ServiceMedal for his 14 years of dedicated service. Actually, Mr. Fontenotconferred diplomas to the very students who were in preschool whenhe began his tenure as OC principal!

Several seniors were also recognized with awards and scholarshipsfrom civic groups, armed services, and universities at the SeniorAwards Banquet. The school counselor reported that this graduatinggroup accumulated over $1 million in scholastic awards includingthe TOPS program. As a special addition to the awards banquet wasthe unveiling of a re-creation of an original Last Supper mural by theArt II classes for presentation to Msgr. DeRouen. This mural hadbeen created by the late Father Capra who served in the Opelousasarea many years ago. Msgr. DeRouen announced that the paintingwill hang in Our Lady Queen of Angels Church hall.

Most of our new alumni are now advancing to state universities.Among the two valedictorians, Elizabeth Hollier is going to UL-Lafayette with plans to pursue law school, while Ali Carrier is movingto LSU in Baton Rouge to major in Biological Engineering. Amongsome other grads, Morgan Vidrine is traveling north to UL-Monroeto begin the pharmacy curriculum. Lindy Fortier will join Ali at LSUto study Chemical Engineering. May all of these graduates rememberOpelousas Catholic and always consider it “home”.

Our prayer is that they taste every moment, follow the right path andlet the peace of Christ rule in their hearts!

“You will make known to me the path of life; In your presence isfullness of joy; In your right hand there are pleasures forever.”

Psalm 16:11

Vol. 27, No.2SUMMER 2015

Serving the publics of Opelousas Catholic,Holy Ghost, and Academy of

Immaculate ConceptionSAGASAGATheThe

THIS PATH OF LIFE!

“Guiding our children on their Journey with Jesus”

Co-Valedictorians Ali Carrier and Elizabeth Hollier; Salutatorian Morgan Vidrine;Historian Lindy Fortier; and Recorder Brittany Walls.

Monsignor Keith DeRouen announced the Four-Year Religion Award recipients as David Allenand Elizabeth Hollier. These two also received the prestigious American Legion awards.

Principal Perry Fontenot presented theFather J. Wilson Matt Scholarship

to Anja Alfred.

“Guiding our children on their Journey with Jesus”

Over 150 Years of Catholic Education!

PRINCIPAL’SMESSAGE

CAVELL TAKES THE HELMIn March 2015, Msgr. Keith DeRouen, School Chancellor, announced thatMr. John A. Cavell, Jr. was hired to be the next principal of OpelousasCatholic.

Mr. Cavell, a graduate of St. Thomas More Catholic School in Lafayette, isreturning to his Louisiana roots after his last tenure in Fort Myers, Florida.He served there as principal of Bishop Verot Catholic High School where heled the 1:1 iPad technology integration, saw sustained growth in enrollmentalong with the rise in the school’s ACT and SAT composite scores. Mr. Cavell

also oversaw the development andimplementation of a five-year strategic planand helped to create an innovative,interdisciplinary academic program for highachieving students.

Prior to this, he was principal of ArchbishopHannan High School in the Archdiocese of NewOrleans from 2007-2010 where he workedwith the archdiocese and FEMA to construct anew $18 million campus. Mr. Cavell hadformer experience as a science teacher, coachand instructional coordinator in the East BatonRouge School System.

Msgr. DeRouen has stated, “Coming from adistinguished Catholic family, John Cavell will

not only bring to us an incredible history of academic successes as principaland an uncanny ability to form the whole student – mind, body and spirit;but equally important, he will bring to us a deeply rooted Catholic faith thatno doubt will continue to enhance every aspect of our beloved school.”

Mr. Cavell and his wife have three daughters who will join the OC family inthe fall. The school gives them a warm Viking welcome and looks forwardto the Cavell administration.

John A. Cavell, Jr.

SNIPPETS!• Did you see the 2015 NICHE Rankings which were released earlier this year? Opelousas Catholic School ranked 26 out of over 90 private schoolsin Louisiana! Their stats involve academics, educational outcomes, resources and facilities, etc. Awesome!

• OC welcomes for the 2015-16 school year Brittany Lavergne Wagley (OC2004) who was recently hired to teach English classes in the junior high department. Brittany is married to Andrew Wagley (OC 2004), and they arethe parents of three.

YEARS OF LOVING SERVICEMrs. Mary Lucille Paillet was recognized at an all-school mass in May forher amazing 54 years of dedicated service to Catholic education as she isretiring! In her very own words, she has “worked for the Lord” for all ofthese years … in secretarial positions at every level … high school, juniorhigh and elementary.

She started her career one year after her 1955 graduation from Holy GhostSchool and worked under Holy Family and Marianite nuns and lay principalsover this time. In the most recent years, she has served as the elementarydepartment secretary and has been a pillar of patience with the youngsters.The little ones tell everyone that she has “magic spray” in her office thatheals absolutely everything! Besides patience, most would agree thatkindness would be another great description of Mrs. Paillet as she has beensuch a compassionate grandmother for the children.

Mrs. Paillet and her husband Gene are the parents of two daughters whoare OC graduates. Opelousas Catholic has been blessed by her presenceand service and thanks her immensely for her love and support over thishalf a century plus!

Dear Friends & Family of Opelousas Catholic,It has been an incredible journey these past few months since my arrival atOpelousas Catholic. Opelousas Catholic enjoys a rich history of academicand co-curricular excellence that is the result of a collegial partnershipamong the entire school community. I could not be prouder of thecommitment the school community has made to make this the premieracademic institution in the area.

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge and thank my predecessor, PerryFontenot, for the outstanding job he has done in leading Opelousas Catholic. Heleaves behind a legacy of devoted spirituality and Catholic identity. Thanks to Mr.Fontenot and his predecessors, the rich charism that has been instilled in theschool will continue to enrich the lives of students for generations to come.

My vision for Opelousas Catholic is a simple one… an emphasis onexcellence in every aspect of school life. I desire to see the school continueto serve and enrich the lives of the whole student: mind, body, and spirit. Irecognize and understand the unique challenges and opportunities that OCfaces and look forward to helping the school reach its full potential in theyears ahead. As a professional Catholic educator, I welcome the challengethat comes with any new experience.

Over the past couple of months, I have enjoyed meeting many parents,families, friends, and alumni of Opelousas Catholic, Academy of theImmaculate Conception, and Holy Ghost. I look forward to meeting morestakeholders as we continue to grow. I know that I have joined a great schoolcommunity. I am determined to provide the very best of my knowledge,skills, abilities, and faith to Opelousas Catholic.

God Bless,

John A. Cavell, Jr.

After 14 years as principal,Mr. Fontenot has retired. His

accomplishments werefeatured in the winter issue ofThe SAGA. Here he is shown

visiting with friends andfamily during a RetirementReception held at the school.

Mrs. Paillet received a gift fromthe school as presented by ReligionCoordinator John Braham at anall-school mass dedicated to herfor her retirement.

The school crest was updated and the “Cross Buttony” from the crest was adopted in May asthe official school crest and logo … and watch for our new and official OCS website comingsoon! This user-friendly website filled with lots of valuable information should be availablelater this summer!

ACT SCORES ON THE RISE!Our school counselor, Mrs. Liz Meche, attended “A-List Education” training forACT Prep in New York last summer to prepare herself to teach two semester-long ACT Prep classes this past school year to juniors and seniors. This new OCclass covers ACT exam content, gives shortcut ideas, works with timing issuesand more. It was offered as an elective opportunity in hopes of leading toincreased scores and enhanced scholarship offers.

Mrs. Meche is excited to announce that about 75% of her students taking the ACTPrep class have shown improved ACT composite scores! Collectively, this group hasimproved by 73 points! The average score increase has been 2.35 composite points,and the range has been a 1-5 point increase!

In a related note, ACT Aspire will be replacing the PLAN test that tenth gradestudents have been taking. “ACT Aspire” is an assessment system that measuresacademic achievement in English, math, reading, science, and writing in grades3 through 10, thus starting ACT skills in third grade. The child’s teacher can usethis information to address areas for improvement, build on strengths and impacteach child’s potential.

TECH “BITS and BYTES”by Beth Going Hebert (OC 1974), Technology Coordinator

Recently, the tenth graders were tested using the ACT Aspire test online. Thestudents worked very hard and using the Chromebooks eliminated a great dealof technical issues normally involved in on-line testing. Thanks to the seniorswho let us use their Chromebooks for the week, and gratitude for the generosityof the local Raising Canes management who provided Box Combo gift cards asrewards for the seniors.

We are continuing to make advancements in our technology training for teachers.Two training sessions were held in March on Saturdays (one for K-8 and one for9-12). A representative of AXI was hired to present the training which wasprimarily on the Promethean Board and its upgrades to the software. Theteachers were excited to see what they can now bring to their students. We havealso trained our kindergarten and first grade teachers on the LearnPad devicefor use in their classrooms and will continue training for all teachers in thecoming school year.

Through the generous efforts of a donor, we will be purchasing new equipmentfor the high school computer lab this summer. We are also planning onupgrading our multi-purpose lab in Room 15 with Chromebooks to create awireless mobile lab. It is our hope to use some of the funds from this year’sAngel Appeal Campaign to accomplish this.

Speaking about our Angel Appeal 2015 Campaign, you may have seen that it isdedicated to support the advancement of technology this year. I appreciate yourprayers and whatever financial support you can afford and assure you that thefunds will be used to benefit our teachers and students in the best way possible.

Technology is a crucial part of our educational process. The proper use anddistribution of this equipment and information is vital for the success of anyeducational institution. Here at OC, we are striving to provide the necessarytechnology needed to give our teachers and students the tools they need tosucceed. With the help of our generous parents and donors, we have been ableto do this, and it continues to be one of our goals in the years to come. If anyoneis interested in making a donation, you could be eligible for state tax breaks.Contact Principal John A. Cavell, Jr. for more information regarding this program.Thank you for the opportunity to work with your children!

THE SAGA HIGHLIGHTSTeachers and Achiever of the Year

Opelousas Catholic School announced its Teachers and Achiever of the Year fortheir outstanding service and contribution to Catholic education. They wererecognized during Catholic Schools Week at OC and again with other honoreesthroughout the Diocese of Lafayette in a Diocesan Prayer Service. Honored wereCherie Sloane, Elementary Teacher of the Year and Emily Turner, SecondaryTeacher of the Year along with Achiever of the Year Heather Wallace.

Cherie Sloane is married to alumnus Blake Sloane (OC 1996), and they are theparents of three children who all attend OC. Mrs. Sloane graduated with honorsfrom LSU with a B.S. degree in Early Childhood Education. She taughtkindergarten in Evangeline Parish for 12 years before coming to OC two yearsago. Mrs. Sloane was also recognized as a “Teacher of the Year” at ChataignierElementary School where she wrote a grant for technology needs. She enjoysbeing a dedicated “Sports Mom” for her children who are involved in softball,baseball and basketball.

Emily Trahan Turner (OC 2001) received her degree from UL-Lafayette and thenher teaching certification through Louisiana College. She taught second gradeat Cecilia Primary School for four years before coming to OC two years agowhere she was teaching high school French and was a sponsor of the Pep Squad.Mrs. Turner also organized a special French Mass this year. She and her husbandare the parents of one young daughter and are expecting their second child soon.They live in Arnaudville, LA. As a special activity, Mrs. Turner enjoys hermembership in the women’s Mardi Gras Krewe (Xanadu) in Lafayette.

Heather Savoie Wallace (OC 1993) and her husband James (OC 1991) are theparents of four children who all attend OC. She has worked in education at GroleeElementary School for eight years and then St. Ignatius Catholic School for threeyears. Mrs. Wallace has been very involved at OC in various projects. She issecretary on the School Advisory Council, serves as current President of the CatholicSchools of Opelousas Alumni Association and has helped with the annual Tasters’Dinner and Auction event. In her church parish of Our Lady Queen of Angels, sheis a coordinator of the Children’s Liturgy and Young Couples’ Group.

These are truly outstanding individuals who are always willing to go above andbeyond for the benefit of Catholic education and the children. We salute themfor their glorious works!

Teachers of the Year Cherie Sloane and Emily Turner andAchiever of the Year Heather Wallace

A SAMPLING OF LIFE LESSONS … “MAIDEN” MISSION TRIPA bit of history was made in late February when a group of OC students, teachers and parents along with FatherJared Suire went on a mission trip to Guatemala. There they visited two orphanages, one housing children withHIV. The group helped with landscaping, painting of the boys’ dorm, and visiting and playing with the orphanchildren. All agreed that it was an eye-opening experience to see how they lived. It helped everyone to grow closerto God, develop a greater sense of compassion for others and to be more thankful for their many blessings.

4-H TRIP TO ANGOLAThe 4-H members enjoyed a field trip to Angola State Penitentiary in late April. The 4-H Club thanks Mr. RonaldSylvester for coordinating it, Warden Burl Cain for allowing the group to visit, and the tour guide who answeredthe students’ questions, giving them a better understanding of the importance of making correct choices in life.The students were able to observe the extensive farm system used to feed the inmates. They also visited the stablesand the museum where they learned much about Angola history and some of its "famous" prisoners. They heard afirst-hand account of one prisoner's life both before and since he had been incarcerated. Lastly, all were served adelicious lunch containing homegrown vegetables cooked by the inmates. The consensus was that this outing wasboth enjoyable and educational with many members expressing an interest in returning for a future field trip!

Mayor Reggie Tatum (OC 1978) presented a key to thecity to Christopher Duffley, blind and autistic singer andmulti-instrumentalist, who visited and inspired OC andthe Opelousas community in April. Pictured with them is

Christopher’s mother.

v i k i n g p r i d e

Graduating seniors recognized by the KC Councils 11270 and 1173 with theCatholic Youth Leadership Awards were Elizabeth Hollier, Brett Mills, AliCarrier, and Kaleb Gautreaux. Taylor Bellard received the CYLAScholarship from the Council at Our Lady of Mercy Church while MaggieWhipp was the recipient of the Fourth Degree KC Medallion.

Kaleb Gautreaux and Maggie Whipp, 2015 seniors, were honored with theschool Service Awards for this year.

Students in 1st and 2nd grades who finished with the highest averages inMath and Reading:

Math excellence: Alli Bertrand & Justin Van, 1st gradeRiley Holman & Bennett Wallace, 2nd grade

Reading excellence: Alli Bertrand & Bella Blanchard, 1st gradeBrenna Bourgeois & Zachary LaGrange, 2nd grade

OC was blessed by another moving Passion Play performed by the seniorclass during Holy Week. David Allen played the part of Jesus, while ElizabethHollier was His mother, Mary.

One of the special projects by the school’s National Honor Society this yearwas the collection of aluminum can pull tabs for the benefit of St. Jude’sChildren’s Hospital. NHS members reported that 235 pounds were broughtto the local Recycling Center for a cash value of $120 which was mailed toSt. Jude’s. The Recycling Center noted that they had never received such alarge amount of pull tabs at one time!

Twenty-one student scholars placed in the spring District Literary Rally atLSU-Eunice in their subject area competition! Students placing 1st in theirsubjects earned scholarships: Elizabeth Hollier, Biology II; MorganVidrine, Calculus; Ethan Warren, Physical Science; Alex Cravins, Civics;Aileen Cea, French I; and Bailey Sonnier, Journalism.

Morgan Vidrine, senior, placed 1st in Calculus at the State Literary Rally atLSU and earned an additional $400 scholarship!

Top junior high Accelerated Readers for the year earning the most readingpoints were Zachary Walls, Joseph Mouret, and Noah LaBruyere, 7th grade.Zachary Walls was the overall high. These three also made the AR “MillionWord Club”!

In upper elementary Accelerated Reading, students accumulating the mostreading points were Dylan Doucet and McKenzie DeRouen, 5th grade; JacobVazquez and Daniel Thomas, 4th grade; and Alexis LaFleur and EmilyJesclard, 3rd grade.

The W.O.W. organization recognized two students who demonstrated strongproficiency and the highest g.p.a. in U.S. History: Noah LaBruyere in juniorhigh and Adam Bernard in high school.

Anna McKinney, 6th grade student, was recognized as the “Piano Studentof the Year” by instructor Carita Vargas of the Piano Masters program at OC.

For the 2015-2016 school year, senior leaders will be Hannah Johnson,Student Body President; Lindsey Warren, Senate President; and BrittanyMajor, Senior Class President.

Our teachers are participating in “PD 360”, an online professionaldevelopment on demand 24/7. Faculty members are utilizing the variety oftopics in the sessions to enhance their teaching techniques. This includesthe initiative “Writing across the Curriculum”.

Congratulations to all students in the Journey with Jesus program.Completing the bronze level were the 3rd graders, the silver level were the8th graders, and the gold level were the 12th graders.

Carsyn Olivier and Madeleine Braham (left and right) earned the Eighth Grade HighestAverage Awards for the year, while Adrienne Allen (center) was honored with the

Junior High Viking Award as voted on by her classmates for her outstanding character,work ethic and Christian qualities.

Oren D. Tomlinson and Kynadie Vice, OC 2015 grads, were presented with $370,000 by theU.S. Navy at the Senior Awards Banquet to cover their education and other expenses as they

enlisted to serve in the U.S. Navy. School counselor, Mrs. Liz Meche, made the announcement.

Seventeen 7th graders qualified for the Duke University Talent Identification Programbased on outstanding achievement test scores, etc. Those who took the test and given “staterecognition” after being successful with the ACT at this early stage were Luke Lafleur, Jon

Ross Miller, and Jesse Roy in front with Katie Wagley and Zachary Walls behind them.

APPRECIATION MEMOS!Words cannot express enough gratitude to retirees Mr. Perry Fontenot and Mrs.Mary Lucille Paillet for their years of devotion in their roles at OC! In addition,after 20 years of serving the children, Mrs. Julie Edwards, junior high Englishteacher and varsity golf coach, has decided to retire. We are truly grateful forher dedication, love and hard work! Other faculty and staff leaving after the2014-2015 year include Mrs. Emily Trahan Turner (OC 2001) and Mr. DaleMelancon as well as Deacon Dwayne Joubert (OC 1983) who recently cameon campus to teach Religion on a part-time basis. Deacon Joubert said that hewill still be around to contribute to the Religion program. We wish them the best!

The elementary children and teachers are grateful for Sister Elsie Vidrine’s weeklyvisits to the classrooms. Sister Elsie, a Marianite of Holy Cross, enjoys her talkswith the students, each one giving a valuable lesson!

The high school librarian thanks Raising Cane’s for donating bookmarks andfree combo meal certificates for the students who excelled in AcceleratedReading each quarter of the year. She also appreciates the help of OC parent LiaReed Duplechain (OC 1987) for her daily help in the library.

OC acknowledges our chancellor, Msgr. Keith DeRouen, our Board of Pastors, along with Msgr. Louis Melancon for their love and guidance. We also thank theirchurch office staff members who are always so accommodating to us!

OC thanks the Knights of Columbus Council 11270 and Mr. Harvey Wimberly for their recycling and their designation of the funds to benefit OC. What a niceblessing!

We are so appreciative to those who have been collecting and sending the following labels to school: Community Coffee UPC; General Mills Box Tops; and Campbell’sUPC. We now also collect the bottle caps and cardboard flaps with codes from Coca-Cola products! It is so helpful to the school!

May God bless our 2nd and 11th grade students who made their FirstCommunion and Confirmation this spring!

Fourth grader Betsy Wallace enjoyed her time as “Principal for the Day”this spring as she followed Mr. Fontenot during his routine tasks of the day.This opportunity came from the Tasters’ Silent Auction as bid on by herparents James and Heather Savoie Wallace (OC 1991/1993).

We commend high school leaders Carley Stanley, Adam Bernard, andLouis LaBruyere who are attending Girls’ and Boys’ State this summer.

The OC Drama Team claimed a superior rating and first place at the District DramaRally and the highest rank of superior at the State Rally! They performed the play

“A Murdered Mystery” by Karl Garner and are shown in the pose that they took at theend of the play. Pictured in front are Olivia Buller and Lexi Guillory; standing areAli Cravins, Peyton Hammond, and Amanda Tate; and on top is David Lavergne.

Other awards included Lavergne as “Best Actor”; Hammond as “Best Actress”;and Buller as “Best Supporting Role”.

“Students of the Year” included Elizabeth Hollier, 12th grade;Madeleine Braham, 8th grade; and Jaren St. Clair, 5th grade.

Christian Students of the QuarterOpelousas Catholic elementary religion teachers honored selected students as“Christian Students of the Quarter” for their display of strong Catholic faith andgood Christian behavior.

1st Quarter:Bella Ellis & Katelyn Martin, preschoolHallie Miller & Layla Sylvester, kindergartenEmma Boudreaux & Bailey Melancon, 1st gradeHunter Buller & Cameron Slate, 2nd gradeCiara Melancon & Alyssa Savoy, 3rd gradeOlivia Clark & Gracie Carriere, 4th gradeNyah Lynch & Kamron Levier, 5th grade

2nd Quarter:Gretta Clark, Kate Wallace & Jacob Warren, preschoolKye Latiolais & Coby Johnson, kindergartenJustin Van & Caroline Lavergne, 1st gradeMimi Vidrine & Jacob Schwartzenburg, 2nd gradeEmily Jesclard & Baylee Darden, 3rd gradeJacob Vazquez & Kyan Carriere, 4th gradeEmma Marks & Lydia Martin, 5th grade

3rd Quarter:Camille Emonet, Mariah Laday & Levi Vercher, preschoolGabe Vidrine & Jillian Brown, kindergartenKennedi DeRouen & Carter Olivier, 1st gradeAnniston Bergeron & Noah Tatman, 2nd gradeJacob Goulas & Jay Lavergne, 3rd gradeBaylin Ford & Ann-Elise Venable, 4th gradeRyan LeBlanc & Riley Reed, 5th grade

4th Quarter:Bishop Granger & Carsyn McKinney, kindergartenEmma Allemond & Ava Emonet, 1st gradeMary Caroline Emonet & Lauren Duhon, 2nd gradeRoyce Diano & Landon Boyd, 3rd gradeAvery Wyble & Brean LeBlanc, 4th gradeAmaya Iford & Anna Kate Emonet, 5th grade

The Vikings and Lady Vikings enjoyed another great year! There weredistrict titles in baseball and softball, a 10-2 football season (best in theparish!), great playoff action, and extra as seen below. Plus there havebeen lots of individual credits in all sports!

Football (Coach Dane Charpentier – Parish Coach of the Year!)The team went to the 2nd round of the playoffs!Caleb Vidrine (OC Offensive MVP)Justin Tate (OC Defensive MVP)

Cross Country (Coach Joyce Stelly)State Meet Participants: Lauren Bainter, Ann Marie Bihm, Gabrielle Fusilier, Brittany Walls (girls)Blake Aucoin, Andy Bui, Emery Hammond, Evan Thornton (boys)

Girls’ Basketball (Coach Matt Citron)The team went to the bi-district round of the playoffs!Brittany Major (OC Offensive MVP)Abbey Warren (OC Defensive MVP)

Boys’ Basketball (Coach Jeff Dupre)The team had a strong re-building season!Spencer Gardner (OC Team MVP)

Girls’ Soccer (Coach Chuck Soileau – Parish Coach of the Year!)The team went to the regional round of the playoffs!Olivia Sebastien (OC Offensive MVP; Parish Offensive MVP)Alyse Soileau (OC Defensive MVP; District & Parish Defensive MVP)Kelli Soileau (OC Midfield MVP)Lindy Fortier (OC Team MVP; Parish Goalkeeper MVP)Courtney Hargroder (Parish Midfield MVP)Mia Manzanares (Parish Midfield MVP)Karoline Guidry (District Offensive MVP & Parish MVP; All Star)

Boys’ Soccer (Coach Matt Hebert) The team went to bi-district round of the playoffs!Aaron Whipp (OC Offensive MVP)Seth Guillory (OC Defensive MVP)Elijah Waters (OC Team MVP)

Softball (Coach Jay Artall – District & Parish Coach of the Year!)District Champs went all the way to the State Tourney Quarterfinals!Tori Collins (OC Offensive MVP; All Star)Lillian Phythian (OC Defensive MVP)Anna Lafleur (OC Team MVP)Emily Ortego (Scotty Speyrer Sportsmanship Award)

Baseball (Coach Justin Boyd – District Coach of the Year!) The team went to the regional round of the playoffs!Zachary Hebert (OC Offensive MVP)Aaron Whipp (OC Defensive MVP)Spencer Noel (OC Team MVP; District MVP) Aaron Brasseaux (Gene Mills Memorial Award)

Track (Coach Dane Charpentier)Girls:Mia Manzanares (OC Field MVP; District, Regional & State Champ in Javelin)Peyton Hammond (OC Track MVP)Amy Stelly (Regional Champ in Pole Vault)Julia Larcade (District Champ in High Jump)Boys:Blake Aucoin (OC Track MVP)Kaleb Gautreaux (OC Field MVP)Ian Miguez (District & Regional Champ in Pole Vault)

Indoor Track (Coach Joyce Stelly)Amy Stelly (Girls’ Indoor Field MVP) (School Record Pole Vault 11’6”)Ian Miguez (Boys’ Indoor Field MVP) (School Record Pole Vault 13’10”)

Golf (Coach Julie Edwards)The team placed 2nd in Regionals and 8th at the State Tourney!Kristian Fontenot (OC Team MVP) State Participants: Colby Boudreaux, Nick Darby, Kristian Fontenot, AndrewThibodeaux, Elijah Waters

Tennis (Coach Chuck Soileau)Carley Stanley (OC Girls Coach’s Award)Jordan Molay (OC Boys Coach’s Award)Taylor Thistlethwaite (Regional Semifinalist; State participant)

ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS

SPECIAL ATHLETIC FOOTNOTESSwimming is offered at OC, and several swimmers participated in the StateMeet! They included Gavin Armstrong, Ethan Warren, and Reid LaBruyere.Gavin placed 2nd in state in the 200 freestyle and 3rd in state in the 500freestyle!

OC continues to boast about its rodeo stars! Senior Mia Manzanares isboth a State and National High School Rodeo Association Champion GoatTyer and was named 2015 Perfiert World Youth Rodeo Goat Tying Champ!She has also been selected “National High School Rodeo AssociationChampion All Around Cowgirl”! Cassie Bellard, OC sophomore, participatedin the Louisiana State Finals in barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway ropingand goat tying.

Some of our “college-bound” athletes include:• Karoline Guidry – soccer at Northwestern State University• Mia Manzanares – rodeo at McNeese State University• Amy Stelly – track & field at Louisiana State University• Zachary Hebert – baseball at LSU-Alexandria

Twenty-two athletes were named in the Purple/Gold Club for lettering in 3or more sports this year, and two 4-sport lettermen were noted at theAthletic Awards Program!

Senior athletes receiving “All State Academic Honors” with a 3.5 gpa orhigher within Class 2A: Connor Cart, Kaleb Gautreaux, Karoline Guidry, ZachHebert, Julia Larcade, Mia Manzanares, Brett Mills, Olivia Sebastien, AlyseSoileau, Jaci Taylor, and Maggie Whipp.

Making the “All State Academic COMPOSITE Team” with the highestgrade point averages in ALL classes/divisions:

• David Allen (football, basketball, track)• Lindy Fortier (soccer)• Elizabeth Hollier (soccer)

George Quirk (OC parent) and Charlotte R. Bihm (OC 1983) were namedthe “Athletic Boosters of the Year” at the annual Athletic Awards Ceremonyfor their service on the Athletic Council and contribution to the AthleticDepartment.

PURPLE CLUB NEWS! The renewal letters for membership will go out aroundAugust 1st. The annual dinner for members and prospective members is setfor August 17th at the Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant in Washington, LAfrom 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Please join and support the Vikings!

Elizabeth Hollier (daughter of Louise and Richard Hollier III, OC 1981) andDavid Allen (son of Nathan and Grace Meullion Allen, OC 1984) received the

Scholastic Athlete Awards. David and Mia Manzanares (daughter of Juan and KathrynManzanares) were named the Viking and Lady Viking of the Year!

FOOTBALL SEASON 2015(District 6-AA)

Thursday, August 27 Kiwanis Jamboree Lafayette

Friday, September 4 Port Barre Home

Friday, September 11 Central Catholic MC Home

Friday, September 18 St. Edmund’s Away

Friday, September 25 Notre Dame (D) Away

Thursday, October 1 Sacred Heart VP (D) Home

Thursday, October 8 West St. Mary (D) Away

Friday, October 16 Delcambre (D) * Home

Friday, October 23 Catholic New Iberia (D) Away

Friday, October 30 Loreauville (D) Home

Friday, November 6 Jeanerette (D) Home

(D) District game GO VIKINGS!* Homecoming

The first OC “Dancing with the Stars” event was held at the Opelousas Civic Center inApril, sponsored by the Athletic Council. Pictured completing their “Grease” dance

routine were Shannon Bihm Miller (OC 1990) and James Wallace (OC 1991)!

6th ALUMNI SOFTBALL TOURNEYMark your calendars for the Annual OC Alumni Softball Tourneyset for August 28-30. It will be held at the Washington Ball Parkand should prove to be another exciting weekend! Stay tunedfor more updates, and make sure to befriend the OC-AIC HGalumni Facebook page for further details. Please send questionsor comments to ocalumnisoftball@gmail.com. We look forwardto seeing lots of alumni join together for this fun-filled event!

ELEMENTARY SNAPS!

Annual “Citizenship” awards went to front row Tyler Villemarette, Garrett Lormand,Haays Latiolais, London Guillory, Ella Borne, Amelie Fontenot, and Ainsley Reed; and

second row Joshua Lafleur, Yuse Salgado, Emmie Courvelle, Rhett Duhon, and Luke Reed.

Students honored with the annual “Religion” awards were front row Austin Pitre, Landon Miller,Kayden Darbonne, Ashley Little, Juliana Marks, Brennen Charles, Ben Minyard, and

Wyatt Lalonde; and second row Monica Collins, Ben Wagley, Caroline Kennerson, and Landon Pike.

Multi-award winning New Orleans author and children’s musician Johnette Downingbrought her special brand of spice to the OC Educational Extravaganza in March. Her

performance brought laughter and dancing among the children during this Extravaganzaweek on the topic of “Agriculture in Louisiana: Growing our Future”. The activities were puttogether by the school’s Academic Council for enhancement of their knowledge of our state

industries. OC gives a special thanks to Mrs. Sharon Ortego for chairing the weeklong event.

GRANDPARENTS INVITED!Attention all grandparents (or a special aunt or uncle or godparent)! Come to “Grandparents’ Day 2015”Friday, September 18, 2015.Join the elementary children for mass in the OC school gymnasium … then visit their classrooms afterwards. The children look forward to this special day!

a l u m n i n o t e s

Louis A. Doucet, Sr. (AIC 1956) now lives in Carencro, LA after attending TexasA&M University. He has worked in law enforcement and as a private investigator.Louis has been self-employed since 1968 with Louis A. Doucet InvestigationService. He is the father of three children.

Alvin Pierre-Auguste (HG 1957) graduated from trade school and attendedcollege in Utah. He is retired after serving in the Air Force and from his brickmason business. Mr. Pierre-Auguste and his wife Teresa currently live inOpelousas and are the parents of three children.

Julia LeBoeuf Barrilleaux (AIC 1959) earned her bachelor’s degree fromNorthwestern State University and began her career as an assistant teacher atGonzales Primary School for their first special education program. Teachingbrought her to St. Theresa in Gonzales, St. Vincent’s in Donaldsonville, MariaImmaculata in Houma, and then Labadieville Primary and ThibodauxElementary School. Julia and her husband have six children and now enjoy16 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and their first great grandchild. Theylive in Thibodaux, LA.

George Fadaol (AIC 1962) went to USL and received his B.A. degree in LiberalArts and then attended LSU where he earned his master’s degree in social work.After a career in social work and visual design, George is now retired and is livingin Tulsa, OK.

Jeanine Hansen (AIC 1963) studied at St. Joseph’s College in Maine and OurLady of the Lake School of Nursing. She spent 24 years as a flight attendant withEastern Airlines and Delta Airlines. As a registered nurse, she spent time workingat a Baton Rouge Bone and Joint Clinic and SMYRNA Hospital in Atlanta. Jeaninethen worked with Ochsner Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield where she was acase manager for 15 years. She retired in November 2011 and lives in BatonRouge, LA.

Mitchell Reed (AIC 1966) studied Business Administration at Northwestern StateUniversity and then spent 42 years in oil field construction. He is past owner ofWaveland Services, Inc. and co-owner of Cleanblast LLC. Mitch retired three yearsago and lives in New Iberia with his wife Patti. They are the parents of fourchildren. Over the years, Mitch was an officer in the Lafayette Jaycees andPresident of the LA Steel Structure Painting Council.

Vivian Carriere Adams (AIC 1969) is a retired teacher after 36 years in educationin St. Landry, Natchitoches, Winn, and Lafayette parishes. She had earned herMasters’ of Education from Northwestern State University. Vivian is the motherof two and is now enjoying her family including her four grandchildren. She livesin Lafayette, LA and also loves to dance and to travel in her spare time.

Lorna Lavergne (OC 1980) graduated from USL with a B.S. degree in BusinessEducation and then received certification in Elementary Education. She is now aretired teacher from the Lafayette Parish School System and is currently employedat Our Lady of Fatima School in Lafayette as a bookkeeper and purchaser for theafter-school care program. As a lover of animals, she takes pride in her therapydog, Oliver. They visit hospice patients and schools along with a deaf camp andmuscular dystrophy camp for children.

Dwain Meche (OC 1980) has spent his career with Acadian Ambulance Service,Inc. in community relations and government affairs and was the EMS-designatedRegional Coordinator for Region 9. Dwain and his wife are the parents of fourchildren and now live in Covington, LA.

Holly Stelly Guillot (OC 1994) lives in Bunkie, LA and is married to Gary Guillot.Holly works as the payroll and benefits administrator for The Lemoine Company,LLC in Lafayette, LA.

Mary Montgomery Sliman (OC 1998) attended UL-Lafayette where she receivedher B.S. degree in Business Administration and then her MBA. She has been theMLS Director at the REALTOR Association of Acadiana for six years. Mary andher husband are the parents of three children and live in Lafayette, LA. She is alsoserving as the chairman of the Kappa Delta Chapter Advisory Board and is amember of the Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce.

Ryan B. Tuttle (OC 2001) received his degree in Biological Science from LSUand went on to LSU Medical School in Shreveport where he earned his medicaldegree. He completed his residency in Family Medicine at Spartanburg RegionalMedical Center in South Carolina and is now board certified. Dr. Tuttle has begunhis work in Family Medicine with the Medical Group of the Carolinas in BoilingSprings, South Carolina where he and his wife Alicia live.

Blake Carriere (OC 2004) earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the LSUHealth Science Center in Shreveport. He is now working as a physical therapistat the Acadiana Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine in the Lafayette area. Blakeand his wife live in Carencro, LA.

Amber Cormier (OC 2009) completed her studies in Nutritional Science at LSUwhere she graduated with cum laude honors last year. She will be attending theLSU Health Science Center to further her education in Physical Therapy. Amberis currently living in New Orleans.

Nicole Barry (OC 2010) graduated in Mechanical Engineering at UL-Lafayette inMay and was honored as the “Outstanding Mechanical Engineering Graduate”.She has been accepted into the Texas A& M master’s program.

Paige Guidry (OC 2010) received an associate’s degree from LSU-Eunice inComputer Science and is now attending LSU where she is working on a bachelor’sdegree in Psychology. Paige also works with the SLU Ag Center.

Emma Harman (OC 2010) recently received her Master of Science degree inSpeech-Language Pathology from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette.Previously, she had earned her B.S. degree in Communicative Disorders there.As a graduate student, Emma was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi NationalCollegiate Honor Society for maintaining a 4.0 GPA in her graduate studies. Sheis beginning her career as the Speech Pathologist of Abrom Kaplan MemorialHospital where she will be instrumental in the development of the pediatricoutpatient speech therapy center.

Jason Howard (OC 2010) graduated from the College of Engineering at UL-Lafayette in May with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is now employedwith WMD Squared in Lafayette, LA.

David Jarrell (OC 2010) was seen on the spring graduation list at LSU in BatonRouge where he completed his degree program in Civil Engineering. He iscurrently working as an engineer at Morgan Goudeau & Associates in Opelousas.

Emily Labbe (OC 2010) recently received her Master of Art in Education fromLSU in Baton Rouge. She is making plans to be married by the end of this year.

Olivia Artall (OC 2011) just graduated from LSU with a B.S. degree along withteaching certification in preschool through third grade. She has accepted aposition as a kindergarten teacher at Port Allen Elementary School near BatonRouge to begin in August.

Logan Doucet (OC 2011) received her degree in Accounting from UL-Lafayettein May. She is now employed at John S. Dowling & Company CPA firm inOpelousas and plans to begin her master’s program in Business Administrationin the fall.

Eric Dupre (OC 2011) graduated in May with a Bachelor of Science degree fromTulane University. He will now begin pursuing his MBA at LSU. Eric was alsomarried in March, and he and his wife are living in Baton Rouge.

NEWFOUND ALUMNI– Class of 2015

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Calls!The Catholic Schools of Opelousas Alumni Association continues in the spiritof Catholic education with faithful membership of alumni from OC, theAcademy of the Immaculate Conception, and Holy Ghost School. KathyHebert, Development Director, expresses much appreciation to the alumniboard and Heather Savoie Wallace (OC 1993), president for this past year.

Other board members for 2014-15 have included Vice President AnnPrudhomme Warren (1988); Secretary-Treasurer Haley Devillier Emonet(1996); Past President Becky Faul Diesi (AIC 1970); Karrie Corbello LaFleur(1993); Blaire Schwartzenburg Emonet (2001); Mary Robison Joubert(1983); Mona Pitre Stout (1972); Jeannie Bercier Deshotels (1953); GailGautreaux Gary (1963); Marian MasonWesley (1980); Jeanne Fontenot Harmon(2001); Carolyn Bertinot FaKouri (1954);Philip Andrepont (1961); and BridgetBenson (1979).

ALL alumni of AIC, Holy Ghost and OCare encouraged to get involved! Theassociation needs you! Those on theschool’s database can expect to receive2015-16 membership information in themail soon. Let’s pull together and beadvocates for Catholic education inOpelousas!

All invited toHOMECOMING 2015!Attention alumni! We encourage all alumni to join together for Homecoming2015 in October! Please mark your calendars and plan to attend andreminisce high school days!

Homecoming Parade – Thursday, October 15th, 6 pmHomecoming Mass – Friday, October 16th, 8:40 amHomecoming Alumni Reception – Friday, October 16th, after mass

(hosted by Catholic Schools of Opelousas Alumni Association)Homecoming Game – Friday, October 16th, 7 pm* All alumni are invited to stop by the “Alumni Welcome Tent” to registerfor half-time drawings and to enjoy food, refreshments, and reminiscingbefore the game! A couple of new surprises are being planned for you!

ALL past grads are encouraged to attend/participate in the parade,coronation and game. To be recognized at the game are the OC classes of2006, 1996, 1986 and 1976 and AIC and Holy Ghost School classes of 1966.More detailed information will be mailed to alumni in the “Alumni Wave”near the end of August. For any questions, contact Kathy Hebert in theDevelopment Office (337-942-5404 ext. 105).

MORE from theDEVELOPMENT OFFICE

Alumni are asked to please call Kathy Hebert, Development Director, at337-942-5404 ext. 105 or email her at hebertk@ocsvikings.com …

o to enter a flatbed trailer, etc. for the Homecoming Parade(entries due by October 8th)

o to share information about your upcoming class reunion o to provide current mailing addresses of classmates o to give information for future SAGA newsletters

Anja AlfredDavid Allen *Blake AucoinTaylor BellardColby BoudreauxAaron Brasseaux *Maci BrileyMorgan BrileyHannah Buller *Brian CareyAlison Carrier *Drake CarrierErin CarriereConnor Cart *Matthew CastilleMadison CollinsAlexandra CravinsMatthew DuncanMakenzie Duplechain *Mitchell Dupre *Brody FisherSamantha Jo FisherLindy Fortier *

Maggie FuselierKaleb Gautreaux *Andrew Guidroz IVKaroline Guidry *Lexi GuillorySeth GuilloryCourtney HargroderZachary Hebert *Drake HeltonElizabeth Hollier *Leah Knott *Lauren Lanclos *Julia Larcade *Connor LastieLane LatiolaisEvan LeDouxEmily LegerMia Manzanares *Brett Mills *Larry MorrisSpencer NoelAllison Purser *Angel Richard

Olivia Sebastien *Natalie Simoneaux *Cole SmithAlyse Soileau *Amy Stelly *Amanda TateJustin TateJaci Taylor *Andrew ThibodeauxKirsten ThibodeauxOren TomlinsonToni Torres *Tommy Trieu Kynadie ViceCaleb VidrineElizabeth VidrineMorgan Vidrine *Brooke Walls *Margaret Whipp *

Special remembranceof Meghan Briley

Honor graduate *

EXTRA ALUMNI REPORTS!As a follow-up on the Stelly family at LSU, Gabe Stelly (OC 2011) justcompleted his studies at LSU in Baton Rouge and was also commissioned asa 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force. He will be stationed at Whiteman Air ForceBase in Missouri. Attie Stelly (OC 2010) has moved on to LSU-Shreveport fortheir Occupational Therapy program. Younger sister Amy Stelly (OC 2015) willbe heading to LSU in the fall to major in Physical Therapy and will be polevaulting for the LSU Track and Field team!

Kristy Brumfield (OC 1999) was seen in the “Law Student Limelight” in aLawdragon publication. Kristy has been attending Loyola University College ofLaw in New Orleans in the evenings where she is focusing on Civil Law. Shehad previously earned a degree in Biology from Xavier University of Louisianaand now has her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from LSU. Kristy has even taught as anassistant professor in Xavier University’s biology department. She states thatthe appeal of law school for her was the intersection of science and law. Withnew developments in the field of energy including biofuel resources, she hasseen opportunities to create laws and public policy that might encouragecompanies to complete new environmentally sound technologies.

Creighton “Creig” Shute (OC 1993) was featured in a recent Acadiana Healthand Wellness publication. In the article’s background information, it was notedthat he spent five years in the Navy after high school and then studied at UL-Lafayette and went on to medical school at Philadelphia College of OsteopathicMedicine in Georgia. He returned to the military (Army) for completion of hisresidency where he saw orthopedic care to sports medicine, trauma, obstetrics,mental and behavioral health issues and more. His patients ranged from infantsto geriatrics, including veterans. After leaving the Army, Dr. Shute practicedemergency room medicine but recently opened a private practice using a newmedical practice model called “direct primary care”. His office is located inBroussard, LA.

PAST PARADE HONORS … It was Mr. Merlin Clay who was recognized as the Homecoming GrandMarshal in the 1985 Homecoming Parade 30 years ago this fall!

Twenty years ago in the fall of 1995, the team of LeBlanc, Chamberlain &Martin Physical Therapy led the parade as Grand Marshals!

Our Resource Class students were honored as Grand Marshals ten yearsago in the 2005 parade!

P. O. Box 1819 • Opelousas, Louisiana 70571-1819Phone: 337-948-3056 • Fax: 337-942-1134

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Robert A. Roy, Jr., CPASeth Dabney, CPA

Craig C. LeBouef, CPA/PFS, CFP®, MBA2811 South Union, Opelousas, LA 70570

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OC thanks these sponsors for their support in making this newsletter possible!We welcome any other businesses and/or individual sponsors for future newsletters.

Call Kathy Hebert at 942-5404 ext. 105.

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This dress-up moment was captured in the early 60’s when these young men clad in their“Sunday best” served as AIC class officers. Check out Sammy Diesi, Hosea Doucet, Tim Andrus,

and Bill Courville (seated)!

CARING FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATIONThere are a variety of ways to “give back” for the many blessings of aCatholic education.

• You can start with prayer, praying that OC will continue to grow stronger for the children of the community.

• For locals, volunteer …on a fund-raising project, with school organizations, or by simply giving time to a teacher or reading to the children!

• Thirdly, monetary gifts are always welcome … whether it’s the Capital Campaign for renovations/additions or the Memorial Program or the Angel Appeal Drive … it is a blessing!

Several companies have matching gift programs which allow them to matchemployees’ gifts. Employees should check with their Human Resource officeabout the simple procedure.

You can even include a bequest in your will to benefit the children of OC – whilehelping you and your family at the same time! With this “planned giving”concept in mind, you have the opportunity to establish your own legacy. Seeyour attorney to make this a reality for you and the children of OC!

FLASHBACKS...

In the late 70’s, this group of OC faculty and staff members had lots of fun riding on their“Vikings VIP” float for the Homecoming parade … Gene Stephens, Mrs. Brewster, Sr.

Charmaine Chretien, Sr. Benedict, Dona Clary, Gail Artall, Vickie Spaniol, Sr. JoAnn DeLoach,Sr. Stephanie Bourg, Charles Ruffino and in front Michelle Champagne. Mixed in were the

Spaniol children. They do have that spirit!

ANGEL APPEAL 2015Opelousas Catholic is grateful to the many “angels” who have bestowed blessingsupon the children of OC with generous gifts and prayers! We appreciate the followingparents, grandparents, alumni, faculty, staff, family and friends for supporting Catholiceducation and recognizing the importance of this Appeal 2015 Drive. OC also thanks those who purchased tickets for the February Tasters’ Dinner and Auctionwhich benefits the Appeal. As always, it will enhance the Foundation Trust Fund, and thisyear’s drive will allow the purchase of needed technology for the classrooms fromelementary through high school levels. Gifts are still being accepted throughout the year 2015 in the OC Development Office,428 E. Prudhomme Street, Opelousas, LA 70570. We remind our generous gift giversthat hundreds of companies will match their employees’ contributions. Simply obtainthe appropriate form from your employer, and send it to school with your gift. It willbe welcomed!

“To love for the sake of being loved is human, but to lovefor the sake of loving is angelic.”

Seraphim Society ($5,000+)Juanita Brinkman Fontenot (AIC 1954)

in memory of Harold (AIC 1953) and Todd Fontenot (OC 1978)Francis Larriviere

in memory of Barbara Quebedeau Larriviere (AIC 1953)

St. Michael Protectors ($1,000+)Deacon Sammy/Becky Faul Diesi (AIC 1968/1970)Amelie Hollier (OC 1980)Faye/Wayne Reiners (OC 1972)Stanley Vige (AIC 1955)

in memory of deceased members of the AIC Class of 1955

St. Gabriel Givers ($500+)Reverend Angelo CremaldiKim/David Edmond (OC 1988)Mary Beth Henry (OC 1977)Cecil Soileau (AIC 1956)

Archangel Associates ($250+)Virval Fontenot Bradley (AIC 1952)Walterine CannatellaTimothy G. CollinsDonald Fisher (OC 1973)Bennett/Yvette HowardAlan Moore (OC 1982)Marguerite Thistlethwaite

Guardian Angels ($100+)American Bank and Trust Co.Jay/Jill Christ Artall (OC 1978/1980)Frances Duhon Bordelon (AIC 1957)John Bordelon (OC 1978)Bob/Brenda Fitzgerald Boyd (AIC 1971/OC 1972)Pat/Willy Boyd (AIC 1971)M/M W. Martin BrahamButch/Joanne BrileyKermit/JoAnn ChristDalton J. ComeauxIris Roy Diesi (AIC 1954)Norma Lee Richard Dugal (AIC 1947)

in memory of Ray DugalKyle S. Farrar (OC 1980)Gabriel A. Fortier, Jr.Mike/Rita Robison Grogan (AIC 1970)Pat Guedry (AIC 1956)Eric Hansen (AIC 1970)Charles/Beth Going Hebert (OC 1974)Mona Hendricks

in memory of Shayne DougetJoseph H. Hidalgo, Sr. (AIC 1953)Mike/Sharon HigginbothamAnne M. Hollier (AIC 1953)Billy/Carolyn Goudeau Jarrell (AIC 1955/1956)Bishop Michael Jarrell (AIC 1958)Dwayne/Mary Robison Joubert (OC 1983)Camille/Phillip Korenek (OC 1982)Murray/Kathleen LabbeRonald/Henrietta LaGrangeRose LalondeDwight/Pam Landreneau

Hurshel/Janette LegerReggie Little (AIC 1963)Herby Lormand Thelma Labbe Manuel & Thaddeus Manuel(AIC 1945/OC 1978)Bret/Liz MecheJoseph/Aline MillerRoger/Dianne MorganDorothy Mornhinveg (AIC 1952)Harold OrtegoMarie M. RichardStephanie/Robert Roy (OC 1976)Gaye Jones-Sanders (OC 1980)Glenn/Mona Pitre Stout (OC 1972)Justin/Emily Trahan Turner (OC 2001)Sandra VenableNorma S. VidrineThomas V. Vidrine (AIC 1955)Diana WalkowiakBlake/Ann Prudhomme Warren (OC 1988)

Angels of God (up to $99)Yvonne Sandoz Adler, Ph.D. (AIC 1969)AnonymousGloria AymondJeanette BaileyFrank Boudreaux (Holy Ghost 1957)Mary M. Budd (AIC 1961)Blake/Hope CharlesJay/Berna DeshotelLouis A. Doucet, Sr. (AIC 1956)Neal/Donna E. DupreMildred G. EdmondBarbara Artigue Fontenot (AIC 1959)

in memory of Scotty Artigue (OC 1980)Margaret N. Fox (AIC 1939)Carroll/Janice GautreauxSharon Splane Gautreaux (AIC 1971)David/Jolene Herpin Gremillion (OC 1980/1979)Damian/Lisa Leger Hargroder (OC 1984)Keith/Kathy E. HebertFranklin Herbert (Holy Ghost 1957)M/M Carroll J. JoubertKyle/Jennifer KeelerBryan/Gina LabbeFran Leger LaFleur (OC 1977)Sonny/Kim Bordelon LaJack (OC 1977)Ann Carol Comeaux McKinney (AIC 1966)

in memory of Evelyn T. ComeauxMary Semien Ned (Holy Ghost 1957)Gene/Mary Lucille Eaglin Paillet (Holy Ghost 1955)Sal/Barbara PepitoneCindy PitreCherie SloaneAl/Irene SoileauBob/Claire Speyrer Nancy Fontenot St. Cyr (OC 1978)Jervis ThibodeauxSteve ThorntonRonald J. White (AIC 1959)

MEMORIAL PROGRAMGifts to the OC Memorial Program during this school year have memorializeddeparted friends and loved ones by remembering them at all school masses.The following names have been initially enrolled from July 2014 – June2015. May God bless them with eternal peace! *Anyone interested in enrolling a loved one may send a gift to the OpelousasCatholic Foundation at 428 E. Prudhomme Street indicating the name of thedeceased, the name(s)/address of the donor(s), and the name(s)/addressof the family to be sent a card by OC in acknowledgment of the enrollment.

Dr. Gerald J. DeRouenRalph BernardRobert “Bob” Chachere, Sr.Nellie B. FontenotDenise L. HanksNell B. HebertAlbert “Pappy” RichardAnita DyerJames McCarthy, Jr., MDEthel EmonetFather J. Wilson MattBonita ArmandMary Beth TateJuanita B. CainKathleen M. StaggScott A. HenryRaoul BourqueGeorge SoileauMay IngramJeanette TatmanIvy CarriereMary SimonSam D’AmicoRobert BihmDorothy C. BrownMayo James DupreRose GautreauxL.J. DomingueScotty ArtigueGwen Hidalgo

Gerald L. Chachere, Sr.Gregory FontenotKarl L. Pollingue, Jr.Willie SavoieDoris B. McCardellDr. James HaggertyJames LanclosClara AucoinJohn GottShirley LavergneJames CainWillis FontenotAnna Lee DupreAndrew FontenotLance GordonMary Lou DarbonneWade BastisteHailey KirkpatrickBob DuosJane HebertVincent BullaraDr. Al HuguetEarl Guedry, Jr.Bruce AucoinLouis LaBruyereQuin OrtegoPrescott DupuisGabrielle LaJackBetty SavoieJeanette M. Charles

SPECIAL REMEMBRANCEOC sadly lost two immediate family members in June. In a tragic accident,high school student and cheerleader Gabrielle “Gabby” LaJack, daughterof Sonny and Kim Bordelon LaJack (OC 1977) was called to her eternalreward. A few days later, our long-time cafeteria manager, Mrs. BettySavoie, went to meet our Savior after illness. She had worked at OC forwell over 40 years. Through this truly sad time of loss, tremendousexamples of faith and acts of compassion were witnessed among familyand friends. Let us continue to pray for the LaJack and Savoie families andall who are hurting. May the peace of God be with everyone, and may Godbless Gabby and Mrs. Betty!

Opelousas Catholic Development Office428 E. PRUDHOMME STREET

OPELOUSAS, LA 70570

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Non-Profit Org.

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P A I D

Opelousas, LA

Permit #169

F O R Y O U RI N F O R M A T I O N

PASTORS:Msg. Keith DeRouen, ChancellorRev. James BradyRev. Jaison MangalathRev. Gregory SimienRev. Jared Suire

ADMINISTRATORS: John A. Cavell, Jr., Principal Cindy Gates, High School Asst. Principal

Rose Lalonde, Elem./Jr. High Asst. Principal

Willard Hanks, Dean of Students

RELIGION COORDINATOR: John Braham

ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: Tommy Tate

SCHOOL COUNSELOR: Liz Meche

TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR: Beth Hebert

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR: Kathy Hebert

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION: Lindsey Reed, President

Candice Gussman, Vice PresidentCarmen St. Cyr, SecretaryCandace Randell, Treasurer

ACADEMIC COUNCIL: Tracy Antee, President

ATHLETIC COUNCIL: Linda Richard, Chairperson

U P C O M I N GE V E N T S

SUMMER AR TESTING DATE..........................July 21 (10 am – 2 pm)

ORIENTATION DAY...................................................August 6, 2015

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL.............................................August 7, 2015

ALUMNI SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT..........................August 28-30, 2015

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY......................................September 18, 2015

HOMECOMING PARADE/CORONATION.......................October 15, 2015

HOMECOMING MASS/GAME..................................October 16, 2015

TASTERS’ DINNER & AUCTION.................................January 27, 2016

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK........................January 31-February 5, 2016

2 0 1 5 - 2 0 1 6S C H O O L Y E A R

OCS Vision Statement: Opelousas Catholic School educates students in the mission of Christ:to know, love and serve God as disciples in this life in order to be happy with Him in the next.