SAINT THOMAS the A Q U I N A S CATHOLIC HIGH S C H O O L Flame A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFFI CE SUMMER 2012 SAV E THE DATES! STA Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary August 19, 4-7pm: Pub- Several guests spoke of lic Kickoff of their pride in being a the Capital part of St. Thomas Campaign Aquinas from its very October 5: humble beginnings to its current successes. Homecom- A reception followed ing Game in the Commons November where guests were 10: Falcon entertained by a slide- Fling show depicting images (formerly of how the school has known as the Several Dominican sisters returned from Springfield, Illinois, to help grown. Memorabilia STA celebrate its 25th Anniversary. Pictured from left are Sister Lobster Bash) displayed around the Com- Patricia Burke, Sister Judith Anne Haase, Principal Jose Becerra, Sister Teresa Marron, and Sister . mons was a big hit and in- cluded old football jerseys, the original Dominican sis- I N S I D E On February 4, 2012, the St. cheerleader and Starlette THIS ISSUE: Thomas Aquinas Regional ters from Springfield, Illinois, uniforms, old yearbooks, Catholic High School commu- who staffed the school from and photographs. Distinguished 2 1986 until Graduate nity gathered to celebrate 25 years of providing a strong 2005. Also Alumni News 4 Catholic education to high recognized school students in our region. were the Class of 2012 6 STA opened its doors on Sep- “second- tember 2, 1986 with 37 fresh- generation Fal- March for Life 9 men and today boasts nearly cons” whose 400 students. The 25th cele- parents gradu- iPad 1:1 10 bration began with a prayer ated from STA. service in the gym. Current The service Athletics 12 and past families, alumni, cur- was conducted rent and former faculty mem- by our co- Mock Crash 16 bers, founders of the school, Chaplains, Fa- and community leaders gath- thers Mark Freshman Ally Inman is joined by her parents. Ally ered in thanksgiving for our Beard and is a second-generation Falcon as her mother Kim- school. Special guests were Randy Cuevas. berly Crapanzano Inman graduated from STA in 1996. P A G E 2 Major Marc Johnson ‘95 is 2012 Distinguished Graduate

Marc Johnson was selected as Freedom in 2006. He was NC. He was deployed again to the 2012 Saint Thomas Aqui- named the Distinguished Bagram AB, Afghanistan until nas High School Distinguished Graduate of Air Combat March 2010 in support of Op- Graduate. After graduating Command’s Air and Space eration Enduring Freedom. from STA in 1995, Marc at- Operation’s Center Basic Marc currently resides tended the United States Air qualification course in 2008. in Clayton, NC and is a United Force Academy in Colorado In 2008, Marc was deployed States Air Force Senior Pilot, Springs and graduated with a for 12 months to SW Asia in multi-ship flight lead with more Bachelor’s of Science Degree support of Operations Iraqi than 2,300 flight hours. He has in Management with Military and Enduring Freedom at the flown more than 600 combat Honors. Marc then underwent USAF Central Combined Air hours and 120 combat sorties training as an undergraduate and Space Operations Cen- in support of Operations Iraqi pilot and pilot instructor along ter (CAOC). He planned all and Enduring Freedom. He has with attending Fighter Funda- combat support missions for flown the T-37B, T-38A, T-38C, mentals training. From 2005 – both theaters of operation F-16D and F-15E aircrafts. Marc 2008, Marc was assigned to and served as the Executive says his experience at STA Principal Jose the 335th Fighter Squadron at Officer to the CAOC Direc- “instilled discipline, commit- Becerra congratu- Seymour Johnson AFB, NC. tor. Marc was then assigned ment and dedication to my be- lates Major Johnson He was deployed to SW Asia to the 336th Fighter Squadron liefs while solidifying the impor- tance of character, integrity and during Catholic in support of Operation Iraqi at Seymour Johnson AFB, faith in any situation.” School’s Week. Coach Gauff Chosen for All-American Championship Game In his 16 years as STA Head and 2008. In both 2009 head coach at Coach, Errol Gauff, was cho- and 2012, STA advanced to sen to be an Assistant Coach the state semi finals. Dur- STA, Coach Gauff for the 2012 All-American ing his tenure, STA has High School Championship won six district titles as has an overall Game. The game was held on well. st record of 362-190, Sunday, April 1 and was He has twice been played at the UNO Lakefront named as 2A State Coach two state in conjunction with the of the Year and has been “Final Four” games. A panel named District Coach of championships, of the nation’s most respected the Year five times. He has media covering high school been a member of the Lou- two trips to the basketball serves as the selec- isiana High School Basket- semifinals and six tion committee for the All- ball Coaches Association STA’s own Coach Gauff cho- American Championship. (LHSBCA) for 14 years, four sen for All-American High district titles. Errol Gauff has been of which he served in the the head coach at St. Thomas executive office as Secretary School Game during the Fi- Aquinas for a total of 16 years. and Vice President. He has nal Four in New Orleans. He has also been an assistant also served as Coordinator coach at St. Stanislaus, Hahn- for boy’s basketball on the ville, and St. Paul’s during his LHSAA’s executive council on 19 year coaching career. He three separate occasions. has compiled an overall re- Errol is married to cord at St. Thomas Aquinas of Medria Robinet and they 362-190, while winning the have one daughter, Hailey State Championships in 2007 Elizabeth. A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 3 Grandparents’ Day sets attendance record

Freshmen Grace year’s breakfast. and Bobbi Amar Grandparent’s visit with their enjoyed visiting grandmother, Mrs. with their grand- Margaret Ann children and Amar. friends and were entertained by the over the years as well STA Choir and as in popularity. Glee Club. Each Grandparents’ Day grandparent re- The always popular Grandparents’ had traditionally been ceived an STA Day breakfast was held this year held in the Commons but was coffee travel mug during Catholic School’s Week on moved to the gym in 2010 due and several prizes Senior Brandon Cancienne and his February 1. This event is one that to the growth in numbers. were raffled also. grandmother Lucille Traylor enjoy has continued growing in number More than 500 attended this breakfast. STA celebrates National Counseling Week

National School Counseling Week was celebrated in February to focus public attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors and how they positively impact their students. The week highlights the tremen- dous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career. At STA, Counseling Week was recognized in many ways, including a suicide prevention training program called “Teen Life Counts”, campus visits from colleges and universities, faculty and staff appre- ciation, and more. Additionally, the Counseling department has implemented parent and student meetings geared to each class and their specific challenges. Information regarding college preparation, career and college goals, and Hammond Mayor Mayson Foster proclaims answers to the high school journey are all addressed. National Counseling Week with STA counsel- ors Meagan Candiotto ‘05 and Ashley Arnone Brady ‘97. Mother Seton honoree is Veronica Bonfiglio

Congratulations to Veronica Bon- husband, Mark, have three sons: Jonathan, figlio who has been selected as STA’s 2012 Class of 2004; Joshua, Class of 2008; and Mother Seton recipient. The Mother Seton Jordan, Class of 2012. Veronica has been a Award was created to honor those indi- dedicated volunteer for the Falcon Soccer viduals whose volunteer service and dedi- team and has served as the annual Lobster cation to home, school, and church have Bash’s decoration chairperson. been exemplary. Mother Seton recipients Veronica said, “Some of my and have strong Catholic values and a selfless my families happiest times in the past 12 dedication to Catholic schools. years have been at the STA Soccer Field. I Bishop Muench and Superintendent of Veronica has been an STA parent truly appreciate STA, Coach Cox, and all Schools Melanie Verges congratulate and member of the Home and School As- of the players and parents for being such a Mother Seton recipient Veronica Bon- sociation since 2000. Veronica and her blessing in my life.” figlio. P A G E 4 Inaugural Alumni Crawfish Boil-off

The Falcon Alumni Association our campus and reconnect proudly hosted the inaugural with their school,” said Alumni Crawfish Boil-off during AlumniDirector Errol Easter weekend. More than a hun- Gauff. “I am looking for- dred alumni and their families ward to many more events Reese Whitaker, daughter of Lindsay Taylor Whitaker ‘00, and Zoe Jackson, gathered for the camaraderie. Six such as this for our alumni. daughter of Shelby Brignac ‘10 and teams competed in the crawfish As I told our graduating Zay Jackson ‘11 are future Falcons! boiling contest. Competition was seniors, this is your home. fierce and dirty, Louisiana style! Come home sometimes to First place honors went to the visit. Let us know how you team of Matt ‘92 and Jared Lyons are!” ‘96. Will Johnson ‘95 and his team In addition to the garnered second place honors, awards for the Boil-off, the Brandt Meyer ’01 su- and the third place paddle belongs afternoon ended with an pervises one of the crawfish pots for his to Trey Tantillo ‘02. Easter egg hunt on the team. “This was a great func- football field for our future tion to bring our alumni back to Falcons. Will Johnson ‘95 and Jeff Cashe ‘91 visit over corn and potatoes.

If you have news to share or simply want to share what’s go- Keeping Up with Falcon Alumni ing on in your life for a future edition of Congratulations to Marquette Guerin Falcon Fest! Jonathan Bonfiglio ‘04 and the Flame, please Pegler ’98 and her husband Jeff on the Lindsay Day ‘04 graduated as Doctors of birth of their daughter, Layne Marquette. Physical Therapy. Bryce Fugarino ‘04 email it to the Ad- She was welcomed home by her big and Nicole Ersek Quinn ‘04 graduated vancement Office, brother, Luke. as Doctors of Medicine and will begin their kkarcher@stafalcons Congratulations to Christin Canal Mer- residencies. Donnie Chaucer ‘04 earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing. .org. rifield ‘01 and her husband Chris on the birth of their son, Rowe. Kathryn Edwards ‘04 recently earned Also, congratulations to Trey Tantillo her juris doctorate from LSU Law School. ‘02 and his wife Selena on the birth of Dawnielle Rollette ‘04 graduated as a their son, Salvador Peter Tantillo IV, Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine AND got “Cort”. married the same month! Congratulations. Saint Thomas Best wishes to Morgan Scherer ‘04 and Jessica Downing Mathis ‘04 recently Aquinas Regional Grady Seale ‘04 on their recent mar- graduated with a doctorate in Veterinary Catholic High riage. Two Falcons are better than one! Medicine from LSU. School Catie Chaucer ‘05 recently graduated Brooke Gasaway ‘07 graduated summa Falcon Alumni summa cum laude with her Pharm D and cum laude from University Association will be employed as a pharmacist at Don with a professional Bachelor of Architec- STA - Class of ‘92 Chaucer’s Pharmacy. ture. Reports from the LSU Health Sciences Center at New Orleans graduation cere- monies in May were that it looked like a A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 5 STA celebrates at HGS 100 Year Parade

STA was proud to help Holy Ghost Catholic School celebrate its 100th Anniversary by participating in its celebratory parade. The Parade was led by the STA Band, Starlettes and Cheerleaders, as well as the STA Falcon mascot. Following that were two floats filled with STA students who are also alumni of Holy Ghost. “Holy Ghost can always count on the students at STA to help. Our students were so excited that the ‘big kids’ came to cele- brate with them,” said HGS principal Tangee Daugereaux. “It is so wonderful for our students to see the camaraderie that we continue to experience, even after we move on from HGS.”

STA seeks information on Elusive Falcons

If you have contact information for CLASS OF 1991: CLASS OF 1992: any of the following graduates, please Karen Romero Frazier Nicole Genova contact the STA Advancement office Steven Diebold Juliet Gray at (985) 542-8941 or email Heather Booth Heith Huguet [email protected]. Margaret Burgess Jenise Jacques CLASS OF 1990: Joe Gallinaro Tanya King Allen Capdeboscq, Jr Julia Hagood Melissa Muscarella Cathryn Martin Michael Kidd Sidney Perez Elizabeth Hill Michelle Kimball Michele Rolling Erin Ryerson Lance Recile David Soileau Jude Smith Meredith Savoie Troy Tubre John Wiginton Jayme Weber Christen Whiddon P A G E 6 Class of 2012 Leaves Their Mark

The Class of 2012 received over $3.3 Million in Scholarship Offerings 82% of the Class of 2012 received a TOPS scholarship Average ACT score of the Top 15 was 28 Average ACT score of the Class of 2012 was 2012 Valedictorian 23.5 Maria Alphonso and Salutatorian Phillip Six seniors have an ACT composite of 30 or DiBenedetto above The Class of 2012 will be attending the follow- 89 seniors completed ing Colleges and Universities: Birmingham 5887 hours of Southern, Clark Atlanta University, Delgado Com- community service munity College, Louisiana State University, Louisiana at: All Saints Episcopal Tech University, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, McNeese State University, Millsaps College, Nicholls Church, Belle Maison State University, Northwestern State University, Nursing Home, CASA, Southeastern Louisiana University, Spring Hill Col- Catholic Charities, lege, Tulane University, University of Alabama, Uni- Crime Stoppers of versity of Alabama at Birmingham, University of Tangipahoa, Diocese of Louisiana at Lafayette, University of Wyoming. Baton Rouge, Hammond Kiwanis, Hammond Nursing Home, Hammond Rotary, Hammond Strawberry Fields, Holy Ghost Seated: Tony Miller, Maria Catholic School & Church, Alphonso, Baleigh Hospice House, Humane Society, Olah, Jensine Jo- Lallie Kemp Medical Center, Mater seph, Garrett Dolorosa Catholic School & Woodall. Standing: Jourdan Church, Ministries of Hope, New Moschitta, BJ Horizons, North Oaks Medical Miles, Phillip Center, Options, Our Lady of DiBenedetto, Prompt Succor Catholic Church & Blake Elliott, Cor- bett Ourso, Scott School, Relay for Life, Our Lady of Wheat, Mark Holt, Pompeii Catholic Church, St. Ryan Magee. Joseph Catholic School & Church, Standing: Trey La- St. Vincent DePaul, Special tino and Trey Duhe Olympics, TARC, Tangi Food Pantry, and Trafton Academy. The 2012 Top Fifteen A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 7 Brotherhood, Sisterhood and Student of the Year

At left are Brotherhood and Sisterhood award recipients Hailey Boutwell and Mark Holt. Above is STA Student of the Year Jourdan Moschitta with her parents. Alumni Pinning is a new tradition

The Class of 2012 began a new tradition following STA pin. The senior Student final exams. The departing seniors gathered in the Council members presented gym for a final meal together and watched the sen- the administration with a ior slide show. Alumni Director Coach Gauff ad- check for $1400 as their gift dressed the seniors, congratulating them on their to the school for the Falcon successes and reminding them that STA is their Photo Gallery, part of the home: a home we would like them to come back 25th Anniversary celebration. to visit. Kate Valenti Perrilloux ’92, president of The event was closed with the Falcon Alumni Association, welcomed the the unveiling of STA’s alma graduates to the Alumni Association and then was mater, a collaboration be- joined by Alumni faculty members and 2012 sib- tween Karyn Huggett Kin- lings in pinning the graduates with their coveted grey ‘04 and Jonah Zieske ‘12.

“Veritas Veritas” STA student receives We hail to our Saint Thomas Tulane Legislative We give our hearts to thee All the time we spent with her, Will never leave our memory. Scholarship The flame of truth will always Representative Chris Broadwater guide you. awarded his Tulane Legislative Scholar- Be a Falcon strong and true! ship to St. Thomas Aquinas Senior Our Alma Mater, Jensine Joseph. The Scholarship for the We’ll always remember you! Pictured left to right are Principal Jose Be- Fall of 2012 and Spring of 2013 academic cerra, STA graduate Jensine Joseph and Lyrics by Karyn Huggett Kingrey ‘04 year is for one year and covers full tui- State Representative Chris Broadwater. Score by Jonah Zieske ‘12 tion for that period. P A G E 8 Sophs participate in “Sudden Impact” STA sopho- Common Driver Violations, The day ended with a guest mores were and more. victim speaker, as well as a invited to As part of the pro- short tour of the hospital’s attend The gram, students were exposed ICU and ER. This program is Sudden Im- to actual crash photos, videos, targeted at the sophomore pact Program and the Standardized Field level for students preparing at Lakeview Sobriety Tests using the Fatal to get their driver's license. Regional Vision (Drunk) goggles. After The Sudden Impact Program is Medical the law enforcement presen- truly unique and beneficial Center. The tation, the students were ad- due to the fact that it ex- students dressed by an ER physician poses youth to vitally impor- were pre- about the medical aspect of tant information in an envi- sented with the dangers of driving, and the ronment that is not their a Safe Driv- impact that is felt long after usual classrooms or school ing Presenta- the initial crash. Also, a repre- gym setting. Sudden Impact is Louisiana State tion including Traffic Laws, Seat- sentative from LOPA a collaboration between Trooper Nick belt Safety, DWI, Underage DWI, (Louisiana Organ Procure- Lakeview and the Louisiana Manale (right) Vehicular Homicide, Driver Dis- ment Association) spoke with State Police. instructs sopho- traction, Texting while Driving, them about organ donation. mores Jordan Jarreau and Bryon Garrety in the use of simu- Finance Fest for the Falcons lated Fatal Vision goggles. Sandi Lambert and Kim Bourgeois from the Louisiana Fed- eral Credit Union recently hosted a “Finance Fest” with the Discrete Mathematics class at Saint Thomas Aquinas. Stu- dents were quizzed as though they were on a TV game show on finance topics such as the stock market, sav- ings, loans, etc.

Sandi Lambert of LACAP with STA students Andrew Peralta and LACAP’s Kim Bourgeois Thomas Broth- with STA students Corey ers Drell and Devin Sondes by the finance “Plinko Board” STA Students Selected for Honor Choir Three freshmen students from STA were selected by audition for the Dis- trict Nine Honor Choir to sing with other young musicians from St. Tam- many, Washington, and Tangipahoa Parishes. The ensembles rehearsed weekly during January and presented a concert at Ponchatoula High School on Saturday, January 21, 2012. Clinicians traveled from across the state to lead the three honor groups: elementary, junior, and senior high. Pictured from left are Sadie Daugereaux, senior high division; Emma Schillage, junior high division; Laura Huggett, senior high division. A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 9 STA Marches for Life in Washington D.C.

Ten STA students traveled across the nation to par- to Washington, D.C. to ticipate in the March. In participate in the March its thirty-ninth year, over for Life in January. The first 200,000 marched for the March for Life was held on cause this year! In addition January 22, 1974: the first to marching with thou- anniversary of the contro- sands of pro-life support- versial United States Su- ers, some of the trips ac- preme Court case Roe v. tivities included touring Wade on the West Steps the Basilica of the Na- of the Capitol. The Roe v. tional Shrine of the Im- Wade case resulted in a maculate Conception, ruling making abortion Museum of Natural His- legal. Every year since the tory, and the Holocaust ruling, people gather from Museum.

Pictured are (front row, l-r) STA Campus Minister Sandi Johnson, Victoria Burke, Lauren Taylor, Kristina Givens and Raegan Hebert; (back row, l-r) Zane Buckner, Mark Holt, Trey Latino, Chaperone Stephen Johnson, Zachary Burke, Shelbi Neal, and Patrick Laborde.

The STA Beta Club attended and competed for the first time at the State Convention held at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Cajundome. Beta Club members excelled in many Beta Rocks State categories, including: Sean Adams, 1st place, On-Site Pencil Drawing Kalie Beckers, 2nd place, Photography Trey Latino, 3rd place, Computer Technology Catherine Faust, Lawrence Ingraffia, Emily Kopfler, Rudi Darouse, and Sarah Whittle, 4th place, Banner

First Row: Baleigh Olah, Morgan Trapen, Emily Kopfler, Anna Miller, Erica Tricou, Jensine Joseph, and Emily Egan. Sec- ond Row: Juan Valenzuela, Katie Williams, Kohl Kent, Kaitlin Didier, Mara Milazzo, Catherine Faust, Kristina Givens, and Tristan Bland. Standing: Scott Wheat, Corbett Ourso, Sean Adams, Bryce Cothern, Logan Perrilloux, Spencer Wyld, Austen Powell, Seth Bleakley, Lawrence Ingraffia, BJ Miles, Clay Parker Phillip DiBenedetto, Trey Latino, Blake Elliot, Jonah Zieske, Garrett Woodall, Trey Duhe, Ryan Magee, and Christopher Gaudin. Not Pictured – Kalie Beckers and Rudi Darouse. P A G E 10 Excitement Builds for iPad 1:1

Infrastructure prep work thank you to Joseph Wong, content area. In late July and intense training ses- Michael Thornhill of and early August, all stu- sions are the next steps in Nortech Downtown, Brian dents will be required to preparing for the iPad 1:1 Acosta, and STA Tech attend a 3-hour iPad orien- program beginning in Au- Squad for all the work in tation session. This session gust. Rewiring of the cam- wiring and wireless setup. will cover the Acceptable pus was completed in early In early June, Apple will Use Policy for technology May. On Sunday, May 20th, install a new server which at the school and training the new wireless infrastruc- will be used to manage the on the iPad. Students will ture was put in place. iPads. In late June and early leave the session with their Wireless access on campus July teachers will attend a iPads with textbooks and Wade Smith ‘12 and was expanded from 6 wire- two-day training sessions in apps loaded and ready to Joseph Wong ‘08 less access points to 31 which they will receive go for school on August help with rewiring access points. A special training on the iPad in their 8th. the campus. STA Utilizes ACT Online Prep Course ACT predicts that, STA is offering students a Comprehensive con- predicts improved test scores used properly and critical new tool for success tent review for each of in students who use it properly with the ACT. ACT Online the ACT's four re- and faithfully. faithfully, scores quired tests—English, is available to all stu- Prep Math, Reading, and “Improving test scores should increase by dents and offers the follow- Science is always a priority,” said coun- ing: selor Meagan Candiotto ‘05. three points with Diagnostic test and Practice tests with real personalized Study “We are happy to provide the the ACT Online ACT test questions Path students with this opportunity.” Anywhere, anytime The ACT Prep Online Program Prep program. Practice essays for the new optional ACT access via the Internet was funded by the STA Home & Writing Test, with real This program is offered in School Association. -time scoring partnership with ACT and

Left: Madison Chauvin STA Students Honored and be- state, based on their leader- ence on Special Education low: Kalie The Louisiana Center for ship potential, to attend this sponsored by the Louisiana Beckers Women & Government at Nicholls State University coveted adventure in net- Council for Exceptional Chil- recently selected STA sopho- working with and learning dren (LACEC). Kalie also is more Madison Chauvin as from celebrated professional currently ranked 3rd in the one of 50 girls (grades 9-11) and political leaders. nation by the US Equestrian Federation’s Junior Riders chosen from statewide nomi- Additionally, STA and is excelling in the Pre- nees, to attend the Louisiana junior Kalie Becker’s mier Poultry Exhibitor Divi- Girls Leadership Academy. drawing will appear on the sion for 4-H. The LGLA chooses young cover of the program of the women from across the 31st Annual Super Confer- A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 11

One of the many campus improve- ments made during this past school year was the addition of both exterior and interior signage. In addition to this beautiful lettering, other improvements include building identifications, Chapel signage, classroom numbers, and Commons spirit lettering.

STA Thespians Break a Leg The Drama department at STA had an exciting year, not only other. Letters producing two successful shows, but also going through a re- from Tommy was modeling of the Theatre. The fall production of Just Leave it to a powerful, war- Us brought together a talented group of actors in a satirical time story that farce of the advertising world. The show featured several new- left most audi- comers, as well as drama veterans. ence members in As soon as the fall show was over, remodeling began. tears. The show No longer do audience members have to walk through the was written by kitchen to get to the Theatre. A beautiful new entrance now Will Johnson ‘95, who was inspired by a friend waiting for her enhances the dramatic experience of attending a live perform- boyfriend to return from Afghanistan. It included the largest ance. Several modifications were made backstage for an en- cast in recent years and dealt with serious, real-life issues. closed and more functional workspace. Addition- Kudos to all involved with the STA Drama Department. ally, new risers were built for the existing seats for better visibility for audience members. New carpeting was installed and floors have fresh coats At left, the men of Let- ters from Tommy: Joey of paint. Giavotella, Bret Wag- The spring brought a production like no ner, Tony Miller, Domi- nic Giavotella, Devin Baize, Tyler Scott, Bryce Cothern, Patrick Ingraffia, Jonah Zieske, and Spencer Wyld.

At right, the ladies of Letters from Tommy: Macy Rivet, Kara Tucker, Cast members from Just Leave It to Us Emma Schillage, include (l-r) Bret Wagner , Madi Chauvin, Madi Chauvin, Macy Rivet, Jonah Zieske, Spencer Wyld, and Sara Breanna Threeton, Sadie Daugereaux, Gambel. Devin Baize, and Emma Schillage. P A G E 12 Girls’ Track WINS State!

Congratulations to the Lady Falcons Track Team for winning the LHSAA Class 2-A State Title! We are proud of you!

Corbett Ourso, III Falcons Cross Country, Soar to Track & Field - College ULL

Teams Steven Wronkoski Basketball - ULL

Brooke Balser Volleyball - SLU

Tony Miller Track & Field - SLU A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 13 Starlettes Bring Home TWO National Trophies! Congratulations to the STArlettes for placing 17th in the NATION in jazz and 5th in the NATION in hip hop! Keep up the good work! Another Great Year to be a FALCON FOOTBALL: Winners of the HAMMOND CUP GIRLS BASKETBALL: by defeating 4A Hammond High District Champions Academic All-State: Tony Miller, Advanced to Regionals in State Play- Nicholas Gibson, Lane Kropog, offs Garrett Woodall, Lawrence Ingraffia Advanced to 2nd round playoffs BOYS BASKETBALL: TRACK & FIELD District Champions Boys: Indoor State Runners Up VOLLEYBALL: Advanced to State Semi-finals Girls & Boys: District Champs State All-Star Game: Brooke Balser Girls: Regional Champs Advanced to Quarterfinals SOFTBALL: Boys: Regional Runners Up Academic All-State: Brooke Balser, Competed for District Honors Girls: State Champs Amy Dugas, Emily Egan, Jensine Jo- Academic All-State: Brooke Balser, Academic All-State: Phillip seph Amy Dugas, Emily Egan DiBenedetto, Nicholas Gibson, Tony Miller, Corbett Ourso, Scott Wheat CROSS COUNTRY: : State Runners Up District Champs : Academic All State: Phillip Advanced to Regionals in State Play- ALL team members qualified for Re- DiBenedetto, Christian Loving, Cor- offs gionals bett Ourso, Scott Wheat Academic All-State: Lane Kropog Academic All-State: Kaitlin Didier, Amy Dugas, B.J. Miles, Garrett GIRLS SOCCER: POWERLIFTING: Woodall District Co-MVP: Brooke Balser 1st in Super Heavy Weight: Reid Advanced to 2nd round playoffs Travis GOLF: Academic All-State: Brooke Balser 2nd in Super Heavy Weight: Andrew Two members qualified for State Truxillo Academic All-State: Blake Elliott BOYS SOCCER: 2nd in 123: Kaitlin Didier District Co-Champions, State Semi- 3rd in 242: Austen Powell SWIMMING: finals 5th in 198: Wade Smith Academic All-State: Trey Latino, District MVP: Jordan Bonfiglio Academic All-State: Kaitlin Didier Christian Loving, Ryan Magee Academic All-State: Jordan Bonfiglio, Garrett Woodall P A G E 14 The Falcon’s Nest Returns to STA

Newspaper is back at STA! semester. The staff was small After a hiatus and an attempt but dedicated, and next year, at an online edition (take the newspaper will be pro- note, Times-Picayune!), the duced by the Publications student’s wishes were granted class. Editor-in-chief was with the formation of a Macy Rivet. She was joined Newspaper Club. It began by staff editors Madi Chau- with an epic product: a 40- vin, Kaitlin Farkas, Jacob page tabloid produced in part- Smith, Alex Von Almen, nership with the Daily Star in Zane Buckner, and Alex Mi- celebration of STA’s 25th lazzo. Other staff members Anniversary. Then the staff included Sean Adams, Tristan The Daily Star supplement and produced three editions for Bland, Alexis Dunn, Emily three school editions produced the students in the spring Egan, Miranda Howes, and by the Newspaper Club. Paul Mitchell. Class of 2009 supports the

Several members of the Class of 2009 showed up at the Columbia Theatre in March to support classmate Charles Robert Miller in his performance with the . “The Hullabahoos are a group of guys at the who like to sing other people’s music without instruments. And wear robes while they do it. Since the group was founded in 1987, they have been fortunate enough to sing at venues large and small, including the Hard Rock Cafe in Manila, Philippines, the George W. Bush 2007 President Dinner at the Washington Conven- tion Center, on ABC Good Morning America, and for President Obama at the Democratic Caucus.” ACT 30+ Club

Congratulations to these students who made a 30 or higher on the ACT for 2011-12. Seated are Sara Gambel, Jourdan Moschitta, and Laura Crother. Standing are Trey Latino, Archie Pow- ell, Phillip DiBenedetto, Jonah Zieske, and Tony Miller. A PUBLICATION OF THE STA ADVANCEMENT OFF ICE P A G E 15 News from the Advancement Office

You may have noticed in the Save the Dates on please make plans to be at the front page that the Lobster Bash has a new STA on August 19 for the identity: the “Falcon Fling”! This great event will public kickoff of our Capital still have the live and silent auctions, raffles, and Campaign. Join Bishop camaraderie you’ve come to expect and treasure, Muench, Superintendent but we are revamping the Bash to keep it fresh Verges and the STA family for a fun day of family, and exciting! So, mark your calendars for Novem- food, and fellowship. Don’t miss the 10-minute ber 10th! Committee meetings will begin after campaign video - it’s a winner! school starts. We look forward to seeing you and shar- While you’re marking your calendars, ing the vision for the future of STA. Keeping Tuition Affordable One of the many challenges facing needed financial resource for Memorial Catholic schools today is keeping STA.* Endowments are one of Tim Catalano Memorial tuition affordable while still pro- the many ways that we are able Don Chaucer Memorial viding the quality programs that to help families who need assis- James Michael Darouse Me- people have come to expect. tance, as well as to honor stu- morial An endowment is a gift dents who are deserving of recog- Bruce Anton O’Krepki ‘09 that provides a stable source of nition. STA currently has several economic support. When you active endowment funds. If you Memorial Endowment establish an endowment, the would like to contribute to these Frank & Mary Linda Van money you give becomes a per- funds or would like to set up an Mullem Cornerstone Award manent investment for STA, with endowment of your own, please Frank Jackman Memorial contact the Advancement Office the annual interest from that in- The Dominican Sisters En- at 985-542-8941. The following vestment providing financial re- dowment sources to support an area which endowments are currently in ex- Endowment for the Arts you choose. The initial investment istence at STA: James Ware Memorial amount (principal) is never used. Dr. Joseph Michael DePaula Dr. Fanancy Anzalone Memo- An endowment is a great oppor- Memorial tunity for you and for STA. Your rial Father Bill UpDeGraff Memo- desire to leave your legacy for Ottomar Krafft Memorial rial future students (or to honor or David Ledbetter Memorial memorialize a loved one) will give Father Mark Leuer Memoral Guagliardo Family Endow- you the knowledge that your gift Colonel Randall Mayer Me- ment will go to provide perpetual sup- morial Moncrief Grandparents En- port for Catholic education. You Joseph Lobue Memorial dowment (or your estate) will receive the Lawrence Twickler Memorial tax benefits that come with mak- Fr. Leo Guillot Endowment Sam Distefano Memorial ing this donation. Your gift - alone Anne Sherman Memorial Ceny Gueldner Memorial or combined with others - can Fund provide a lasting and much Christine Gugliuzza Bivona *Courtesy of the Diocese of San Francisco Website. State Police Host Mock Crash at STA

STA was Juniors Rachel Greer and Elena Cen- honored Wisecarver joined seniors Tony Miller ter to part- and Phillip DiBenedetto in creating a for ner with realistic and frightening crash scenario, their the Lou- including the death of one student, the assis- isiana arrest of another and critical injuries to tance State another. The scene demonstrated the in this Police reality of impaired and distracted driving. event. The Mock Crash will be followed and Many thanks to the Tangipahoa Parish in the fall with a Mock Trial, to further other Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Coro- teach students the legal ramifications of first responder agencies to produce the ner, 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Of- poor choices and their consequences. first “Consequences of Choices” mock fice, Hammond crash on our campus. and Natalbany “Obviously, the choices our Fire Depart- students make regarding drinking, smok- ments, City of ing, drugs, sex, and more concern us,” Hammond EMS, said principal Jose Becerra. “We want to Interim LSU do everything in our power to give Public Hospital them the knowledge and the opportu- Trauma Center, nity to make the right choices rather Gene’s Towing than self-destructive ones. This program Service, and taught our students far more in an hour Lakeview Re- than we could have done on our own.” gional Medical

the NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE Flame PAID 14520 Voss Drive HAMMOND, LA Hammond, LA 70401 PERMIT NO. 15 985-542-8941

Saint Thomas Aquinas Regional Catholic High School is a diocesan co-educational school shaped by Christ-centered values and the Dominican tradition of Truth. Our mission is to teach Gospel values in an environment of academic excellence that fosters the development of the whole person in a Catholic-Christian community. www.stafalcons.org