Men of La Salle '61

This year's alumni jubilarians had the time of their lives when their alma mater, University of St. La Salle - Bacolod, feted them with a grand bang in their old campus. Starting with a Holy Mass at the Balay Kalinungan celebrated by Fr. Emil Henares, class '61 went on to classy cocktails at the newly renovated premises, a future venue for proms and graduation balls, weddings and other receptions.

But, I'm going ahead of schedule… ask Bro. Gus Boquer what's up his sleeve for that! Jetting in from Alaminos, Laguna USA where he is now the mayor was the grade school class '61's 7th grade teacher and advisor, "Brother" Samuel Bueser. A certificate of love and appreciation was presented to him for touching their lives and instilling in them the values of love for God, love of country and service to fellowmen signed by former Governors Bitay Lacson and Lito Coscolluela, Rep. Monico Puentevella, former Interior and Local Government Secretary Raffy Alunan and busy, busy USLS Alumni Relations Director Cugie Loarca.

Manila-based Harry Rodriguez began with a moving prayer followed by a rousing "Men of La Salle" led by Cong. Newks P.

USLS President Bro. Gus Boquer gave an inspirational message and USLS Alumni president Dave Alba updated everyone on activities. A photo exhibit opened by Bro. Roly Dizon of High School '61 and Tony Pascual of College '61, together with Lito C. and Mayor Bueser, showed how everyone looked like 45 years ago together with their teachers and the wholesome activities that happened then.

After this, all dove into the buffet of goodies prepared by Gloria Rodriguez and the rest of the La Sallian community led by Deans Dr. Elsie Martinez-Coscolluela and Elsa Streegan. Bonds were renewed as everyone sang "Honneur à Toi" (which, by the way, doesn't stop opening doors for me in Europe, as I recall this superb affair).

But, nothing could beat the next day's celebration that started with honoring rites at the USLS Coliseum with the 69 Grade School, 30 High School and 26 College Jubilarians coming in with full banner parade that reminded one of Imperial Rome.

The whole University honored this year's alumni with a rousing ovation as they filed in with royal green sashes across their crisp barongs. The sentimental pageantry was strictly La Salle! The grand luncheon that followed for all was fabulously "honneur-able"!!! Animo, La Salle.

MY PRAYER

St. Jean Baptiste de La Salle, pray for us. Leave Jesus in our hearts, forever.*