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The Ritan

Volume Eighty. Number One. www.TheRitan.com Monday, October 6, 2008

Rita unveils state-of-the-art labs


By Dan Moore
A Student Publication of Editor-in-Chief
Saint Rita of Casica High School Those who enter room 116 and 117, particularly those who
7740 South Western Avenue entered them prior to this year, may have noticed that the
Chicago, Illinois 60620 two chemistry and physics classrooms have been completely
renovated.
The road to renovation has been long, however, from a simple

In this Issue desire to make improvements to the results that we see today.
The project started about three years ago when the Rita
administration decided something needed to be done about
Pages 2-5 the chemistry and physics laboratories. They were old and
Rita community welcomes worn-out, with acid-stained countertops and a distinctive and
offensive odor.
new faculty and staff members
Rita Principal, Mrs. Sally Deenihan said, “We wanted top-
notch facilities to match our top-notch students and top-notch
Page 6
teachers.”
Rita students share their views Therefore, a committee was formed to put together state-of-
Page 7 the-art new laboratories. The committee started its work on a
philosophical note, asking, “Just what is ‘state-of-the-art?’”
Where the 2008 Presidential
TO ANSWER THIS question, the committee made
candidates stand on the issues appointments to tour the new and remodeled labs of other local
high schools.
“One of the key places in this search,” Mrs. Deenihan said,
“was Nequa Valley. We were given a tour of their labs as well
as recommendations from their science department chairman, Photo by Al Smith
which gave us ideas for our own labs.” CHEMISTRY TEACHER MRS. Susan Krystof displays her new scale
After the research portion of the task was done, the committee workstations. The chemistry and physics labratories were recently reno-
organized several fundraisers and received grants to pay for vated and will help Rita students improve the results of experiments.
the project. The final decision to actually go through with the
renovations was made last January. Several features of the new laboratories include rear vents, new
Following the decision, a team of contractors and plumbers water; gas; and electricity lines, a new fume hood, new emergency
was hired to perform the construction. Work began toward the showers and eye-wash stations, new equipment storage drawers,
Photo coutesy of abcnews.com beginning of summer vacation and concluded a few days into this and all new cabinetry.
Page 8 new academic year. The old floor tiles made from asbestos were also properly
removed and replaced with new, asbestos-free tiles.
Rita upgrades school technology
Mrs. Susan Krystof, Rita chemistry teacher and occupant
Pages 9-11 of one of these new classroom laboratories, is extremely
satisfied with the new facilities.
Rita Mustang activities and sports
“IT’S NOW MUCH easier for me to supervise the
kick in to full gear for 2008-2009
students from the front of the room during laboratory
Page 12 assignments with the huge bars that ran across the counters
Varsity Mustang Football gone. Safety in general has improved,” she said.
Begins 2008 Season Undefeated “I also like that the trough-style faucets are gone, so
there won’t be as much splashing or spilling. It also makes
inventory easier, so science teachers who don’t have a lab
in their classroom can find things more simply,” said Mrs.
Krystof.
She believes the new facilities will allow her to improve
the results of her existing experiments, and possibly allow
her to assign organic chemistry labs in the future.
“We wanted to provide a place in which our students will
be able to learn,” Mrs. Deenihan emphasized, “not just a
beautiful room to display and not allow anyone into! We
Photo by Al Smith want a space that is both usable and durable. I think we
SOPHOMORE KEVIN KOSMAN (right) fills a granulated cylinder in a have accomplished that task.”
Photo courtesy of Advancement Office new trough-less sink to complete a chemistry experiment with his classmates. Rita has plans to make similar renovations to the biology
These sinks reduce the amount of splashing and spillage that used to occur. laboratories located on the lower level in the future.

International program expands to Australia


By Dave Schrader the Airbus Plant, which produces over half of the world’s looking into a possible exchange with another Augustin-
Assistant Editor jetliners, a few museums, and even a concentration camp. ian school in Ireland.
While another exchange involving German students is The International Program has also expanded to include
Its initial conception took place less than two years ago, anticipated in the future, a meeting President Fr. Tom Mc- more than exchanges. Rita currently has an international
however, in those couple of years Rita’s International Pro- Carthy, OSA, had with other Augustinian school officials student enrolled for the entire academic year. Pablo Car-
gram has grown from a simple idea to a program involving during the second semester of last year has led to a current dosa from Germany is a current Rita junior.
students from several different countries. exchange plan with an Australian school. Originally from Argentina, Pablo immigrated to Germa-
Last year Rita organized its first ever foreign exchange, DURING THE MONTH of October Rita will be host- ny so his father could play soccer for the professional team
welcoming male and female students from the Emilie ing several students who attend a fellow all-boy Augustin- in Hamburg, Germany.
Wustenfeld Gymnasium in Hamburg, Germany to experi- ian school located in Sydney, Australia. HIS PARENTS WANTED him to study in the United
ence culture in Chicago. Just as the German students did last year, the Austra- States, so they contacted Mr. Lichtenfield of the Chicago/
IN JUNE THE exchange was completed when a group lian students will live with Rita families and study in Rita Hamburg Sister Cities Committee, and he recommended
of Rita students traveled to Germany to learn German cul- classrooms three days a week. On the days the visitors Rita.
ture with the same young men and women who had been are not in the classroom, they will be traveling to various Mrs. Jodi McLawhorn, Director of the International Pro-
with them at the school earlier in the year. Chicago destinations to learn more about the culture found gram, is working hard to expand the program.
The Rita students who traveled to Hamburg had an inter- in the United States. She hopes every year we can exchange with a school
esting time assimilating into the German culture. While the Australian exchange has just begun plans for from a different country so Rita students and faculty to
They visited a number of different locations including: future exchanges are already underway as Rita is also broaden their horizons and experience new cultures.
October 6, 2008
Page 2
NEW FACULTY AND STAFF
Alumni brothers return to work at Rita
By Luke Konrath & Craig Sabath
Sophomore & Freshman Writers Mr. Blaszak received a phone call from Ri-
ta’s Principal, Mrs. Sally Deenihan, about a
Mr. Josh Blaszak, a graduate from the teaching position the school had available.
class of ’02, while not entirely new to the “I was not expecting the call from Mrs.
faculty, begins his first full year of teaching Deenihan, and while I told her I had to
at Rita. think about it, from the minute she told me
He began teaching mathematics at Rita about the opening I knew I wanted to re-
last January when he took over for Mrs. turn to Rita,” said Mr. Blaszak.
Katie Palmer, who went on a maternity In the opening Mass of the new school
leave to stay home for the second semester year Mr. Blaszak was the guest alumni
with her newborn son. speaker and spoke of his journey since his
Although Mrs. Palmer has returned this days as a student, emphasizing how much
year, there has proven to be plenty of room Rita and the Augustinians have impacted
for both, and Mr. Blaszak is currently teach- his life and role as a teacher.
ing Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and Precalculus. He said, “I wanted to teach in order to
Mr. Blaszak grew up in Chicago, attend- be able to help other people. In the nine
ing St. Bede Elementary School and then months since I have been back here, I have Photos by Al Smith
Rita. As a Rita student he was involved in come to believe I am doing what I am re- RITA GRADUATES AND brothers Mr. Josh Blaszak ’02 (left) and Mr. Zach Blaszak ’00
numerous activities, including The Ritan. ally supposed to do.” (right) have come back to Rita as faculty members. Mr. Josh Blaszak is a mathematics
Upon graduation from high school, In addition to teaching Mr. Blaszak is teacher and Mr. Zach Blaszak is the new Assistant Athletic Director and Athletic Trainer.
he went on to attend another Augustin- the new moderator of The Ritan, modera-
ian school, Merrimack College in North tor of the Math Team, and plans to assist letic trainer whom was at Rita during that setts located just south of Boston.
Andover, Massachusetts. While at Mer- with student council, campus ministry, and period and felt he could do more for stu- “While I enjoyed living and working in
rimack, Mr. Blaszak was the president of other activities. dents. Massachusetts, moving back to Chicago
his class and was involved in many other Mr. Zach Blaszak, a ’00 Rita graduate, “I strived to become a better athletic offered a great opportunity for me to return
student organizations. is the school’s new athletic trainer and As- trainer than the one I experienced having to Rita, and to be closer to my family,” said
In May 2006 he received his B.A. in sistant Athletic Director. as a student athlete,” said Mr. Blaszak. Mr. Blaszak.
mathematics and a minor in secondary Mr. Blaszak grew up in Chicago in the He went on to attend Merrimack College, His wife, Mrs. Vicki Blaszak, Director of
education. St. Bede neighborhood where he attended an Augustinian college, located in North Campus Ministry, whom he married in July,
Following college, Mr. Blaszak spent a grammar school. Andover, Massachusetts where he received and his younger brother Mr. Josh Blaszak,
year living as an Augustinian Volunteer in While a student at Rita, he was very ac- a B.S. in sports medicine. mathematics teacher, join Mr. Blaszak on
Philadelphia. During this year, he served tive, including being a member of the foot- After graduating from Merrimack, Mr. the Rita faculty.
as a computer teacher for kindergarten ball team, manager for the basketball team, Blaszak went on to receive his master’s When not spending time with Rita athlet-
through 8th grade and was the coordinator and vice president of student council. degree from Western Michigan University ics, Mr. Blaszak enjoys golfing and watch-
of a non-profit organization that provided In fact it was because of his involvement and became a certified athletic trainer. ing sports.
health care and educational support to low- at Rita that Mr. Blaszak decided to go into For the past two years, he lived in the “I look forward to my time here at Rita.
income individuals. the sports medicine field and become an town of Bourne on Cape Cod, Massachu- I enjoyed being a student here and, so far,
It was while he was living back in Mas- athletic trainer. setts and was the athletic trainer at Brain- I really like being a part of the faculty,” he
sachusetts as a student teacher last fall that While a student, he worked with the ath- tree High School in Braintree, Massachu- said.

Two new academic positions created at Rita


By Cesar Morales
Freshman Writer
Two new positions were recently created at Rita to
bring great academic support and success to the students
and faculty.
Ms. Eileen Sullivan is Rita’s Assistant Principal for
Faculty and Curriculum Development.
This assistant principal position will provide teachers
with guidance, resources, and feedback that will strength-
en the curriculum and services offered to every Rita stu-
dent.
Ms. Sullivan grew up in Niles and received a bachelor’s
degree in physical education and health from Quincy
University.
She later went on to Truman State University, where
she was a graduate assistant and the coach of softball and
basketball, to earn her first master’s degree in athletic ad-
ministration. She received a second master’s degree in
educational administration from Dominican University.
Prior to joining the Rita faculty Ms. Sullivan worked at
fellow Augustinian high school Providence Catholic. At
Providence she was the director of studies and moderator
for the high school’s “Habitat for Humanity” chapter.
Ms. Sullivan has also taught health, physical education,
and English in Chicago and at a school in Texas. She
has also served as a guidance councilor in Harlem, New
York. Photo by Marcus Dyson Photo by Al Smith
When Ms. Sullivan saw a position was available at Rita, MR. RICH KUREK ’99 returns to Rita as the Direc- MS. EILEEN SULLIVAN is the new Assistant Principal
she knew she wanted to work here. She jumped at the op- tor of the Villanova Academic Study Center. The study for Faculty and Curriculum Development. She will be
portunity to be interviewed by the administration. center has been created to assist with student academics. working with teachers to provide students the very best.
In addition to her responsibilities with faculty and cur-
riculum development, Ms. Sullivan will be moderator of Before returning to Rita as a faculty member, he taught also like that students show the desire to learn,” he said.
the lacrosse program. She will be assisting the coach- for a year in Lockport and two years in Joliet. The Villanova Academic Study Center is located in the
ing staff by overseeing all of the operations related to the As director of the study center, Mr. Kurek works with library and is designed to help students who are strug-
program. students on their academics during their TDT periods and gling academically.
“I really like the caring and supportive atmosphere that organizes tutoring after school. Aside from his work in The center will give students, who struggle with classes,
is present here at St. Rita,” said Ms. Sullivan. the study center, he is also teaching the reading courses have individualized education plans, or just need extra as-
Mr. Rich Kurek has been hired as the director of Rita’s offered at Rita. sistance in a class, the resources they need and deserve.
new Villanova Academic Study Center. “I wanted to come and work at St. Rita because I love “I want everyone to know about the after school tutor-
A ’99 Rita graduate, Mr. Kurek grew up in St. Mary the Rita family and tradition. I have always wanted to ing that is available,” said Mr. Kurek.
Star of the Sea parish and later attended Valparaiso Uni- work here,” said Mr. Kurek. Students are able to receive extra assistance every day
versity and received his master’s degree from DePaul “What I like most about working here is the fact that after school by either Mr. Kurek himself or members of
University. the administration and staff are friendly and supportive. I the National Honor Society.
October 6, 2008
NEW FACULTY AND STAFF Page 3

Rita welcomes new additions to Campus Ministry


By Bob Carroll “My favorite aspect about Rita is the Au- facilitating a group of freshmen students offer,” said Mr. Smialek.
Sophomore Writer gustinian tradition. I enjoy the nice, com- during their Tuesday and Wednesday “This chance was a surefire way for me
fortable feeling of the school, the extended, morning mentoring sessions, which is ded- to express true Unitas, the unity of com-
Spirituality is one of the key elements of close-knit community and the large amount icated to discussing pressures experienced ing back home and doing what I love to do,
every student’s experience at Rita. Help- of student involvement in many aspects of by teenaged males. helping others in campus ministry. This has
ing guide Rita Men on their faith journeys the school,” said Mrs. Blaszak. “I hope to help make this a very success- always been my favorite part of the entire
are several new faces that have joined the She used similar positive feedback when ful year for the mentoring program and school,” he said.
Rita family this year in the campus minis- describing living in Chicago. guide the students into becoming more Outside of Rita, Mr. Smialek is enjoy-
try department. “I have met many new faces each day. I mature, respectful, and responsible young ing his college year by hanging out with
Mrs. Vicki Blaszak is Rita’s new Direc- also now get to spend some time with my men,” said Ms. Fitz. friends and following the Chicago Bears
tor of Campus Ministry. husband’s side of the family that lives in When not at Rita, Ms. Fitz is getting and the Fighting Mustangs football teams.
As director, Mrs. Blaszak will be oversee- Illinois,” she said. the most of her time in Chicago, getting to Mr. Joe Toomey is another Augustinian
ing every aspect of the office, from school Being very social, she enjoys spending know the area and her Augustinian Volun- Volunteer who will be serving at Rita this
liturgies to the R.O.S.E. Hours service pro- time with friends and family outside of the teer roommates. year.
gram. She will also be coordinating the school building. Mr. Andrew Smialek, a recent ’08 Rita Mr. Toomey grew up in Denver, Colo-
Kairos retreats, which now fall under the She has been cited by many Rita men as graduate, has returned as a part-time office rado and attended college at St. Louis Uni-
umbrella of Campus Ministry. using the term “wicked” often, a term that assistant in campus ministry. versity.
Married to her husband, Mr. Zach Mrs. Blaszak explained is something used He grew up in the West Lawn neighbor- Graduating this past May, Mr. Toomey
Blaszak, Rita’s new Assistant Athletic very commonly in the New England area hood attending St. Mary Star of the Sea El- was focused on serving as a volunteer and
Director and athletic trainer, she has been in place of “very.” ementary School and experienced success was first introduced to the Augustinian
connected to the St. Rita family for years Ms. Meghan Fitzgerald is one of two throughout his time as a Rita student. Cur- Volunteers by a friend. However, he al-
as he is a ’00 Rita graduate. Augustinian Volunteers who will be serv- rently, Mr. Smialek is a freshman at DeP- most joined a volunteer program under the
Mrs. Blaszak grew up in the town of ing Rita students this year. aul University. Jesuits until he felt the Augustinians better
Bourne on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where Ms. Fitz, as students call her, grew up in As a high school student he was an active fit his personality.
she attended public elementary school and Atlanta, Georgia and attended James Mad- member of his class, spending a great deal Mr. Toomey will be working in the ac-
later Bishop Stang High School. ison University. of time participating in campus ministry tivities office, assisting Activities Director
She went on to attend an Augustinian When choosing her position with the Au- programs. Br. Gary Hresil, OSA. In addition, he will
school to receive her degree in Religious gustinian Volunteers, Ms. Fitz was provid- The opportunity to return as a staff mem- be helping in campus ministry, moderating
Studies and Psychology at Merrimack Col- ed with many options, but thought a minis- ber was presented shortly after his gradu- the freshmen student council, and coaching
lege in North Andover, Massachusetts. try at Rita would be the best for her. ation when President Fr. Tom McCarthy, the flag football and swim teams.
While at Merrimack Mrs. Blaszak was She will assist in many aspects of cam- OSA, called asking if Mr. Smialek would He likes that the Rita family is a loving
involved in many activities closely related pus ministry this year, including helping be willing to assist in the campus ministry atmosphere with tradition.
to her new duties at St. Rita. She was an to coordinate the R.O.S.E. Hours service office. “The kids are great!” said Mr. Toomey.
active participant in Merrimack campus program, plan liturgies, and work with the “I answered yes to Fr. Tom’s request be- Similar to Ms. Fitz, he is enjoying his
ministry, taking part in the service learning Knights of Augustine. cause of the family atmosphere. I wanted time in Chicago, and he ends up spend-
program, alternative spring break trips, and In addition to working with campus min- to give back what has been given to me. ing time away from Rita following sports,
retreat program. istry and being the assistant coach of the Helping out those who helped me, experi- playing the guitar, and attending various
Mrs. Blaszak went on to volunteer for a sophomore soccer team, Ms. Fitz will be encing yet again all that this place has to concerts.
year in San Diego, California as part of the
Augustinian Volunteers.
“I became an Augustinian Volunteer be-
cause I was unsure of what career field
I wanted to enter. However, I had many
friends who became AVs and had very
positive experiences helping others,” said
Mrs. Blaszak.
“I felt as though volunteering would help
me find what I was good at while simul-
taneously doing all the things I like to do.
I ended up being able to travel, see new
places, and most of all help many people,”
she said.
One experience that Mrs. Blaszak finds
most memorable of her time in San Diego
was work she took part in at a homeless
shelter.
As she had hoped, Mrs. Blaszak discov-
ered what she wanted to do following her
volunteer year and began studies at Bos-
ton College to earn her master’s in pastoral
ministry.
Upon receiving her graduate degree she
began work as a campus minister, coordi-
nating liturgies, retreats, and service proj-
ects at Central Catholic High School lo-
cated in Lawrence, Massachusetts.
When the opportunity presented itself Photo by Al Smith
for her and her husband to move to Chi- THOSE STUDENTS WHO stop by the Campus Ministry Office this year are bound to run into a new face or two. Mr. Andrew Smi-
cago and both work at Rita, Mrs. Blaszak alek, Mrs. Vicki Blaszak, Mr. Joe Toomey, and Mrs. Meghan Fitzgerald (from left to right) have joined the Rita community working in
various capacities in Campus Ministry. All serve a common goal: to help strengthen the spiritual journey of the students who attend Rita.
was excited at the possibility.

Mrs. Albrecht joins By Luke Konrath


Sophomore Writer
University.

Theology Divsion
Life as a teacher is something Mrs. Albrecht truly en-
joys and was aware she wanted from a very early age.
Mrs. Mary Albrecht is also new to Rita, teaching “I love teaching; I decided I wanted to become a
Theology 1 and 2. teacher when I was in grammar school. I always
She joins the faculty after spending several years at helped my peers and others to do well. I love learning
Seton Academy in South Holland where she taught and and education,” she said.
was the Assistant Dean of Students alongside another She currently lives in Indiana with her husband Mark,
Rita newcomer, Mr. Brian Gilbert. whom she recently married in June.
A graduate of Seton Academy herself, as a high Mrs. Albrecht gives credit to her great uncles and
school student she was involved in student govern- grandfather as part of the reason for choosing to be-
ment, yearbook, and tennis. come a teacher the school, as they were all Rita gradu-
Following high school graduation, Mrs. Albrecht ates.
went on to attend college at Saint Mary’s of Notre Besides the students she has encountered so far in
Dame and furthered her higher education with a year of the classroom, Mrs. Albrecht also enjoys attending the
Photo by Al Smith study in Ireland and a graduate degree from Valparaiso football games.
October 6, 2008
Page 4
NEW FACULTY AND STAFF
Two new Spanish teachers join faculty
By Luke Konrath & Craig Sabath
Sophomore & Freshman Writers “In order to learn a language, you must be
immersed in the culture of the language,”
Ms. Socorro Yanez is one of Rita’s two she said.
new Spanish teachers. To engage the students in such learning,
Spanish is actually Ms. Yanez’s first lan- Ms. Yanez hopes to bring her students on
guage and it was during her years in gram- field trips demonstrating situations where
mar school that she learned the English the Spanish language would be practical.
language. In addition to her teaching duties, she is
Growing up in the southwest suburbs of assisting with the Hispanic Club and hopes
Chicago, Ms. Yanez was an active member to start a Rita chapter of the Spanish Hon-
of her high school’s National Honors Soci- ors Society.
ety, Spanish Honors Society, and Foreign Mr. Justin Fisk is another one of Rita’s
Language Club. new Spanish teachers.
She went on to attend DePaul University He is teaching Spanish 2, Spanish 3 and
in Chicago for college where she recieved AP Spanish 4.
her bachelors degree in secondary educa- Mr. Fisk is from New Mexico and Mary-
tion. land and attended the Catholic University Photos by Al Smith
Ms. Yanez began here career at Kelly of America in Washington, D.C. THE FOREIGN LANGUAGE department at Rita welcomed two new Spanish teachers
High School, also in Chicago. She now Mr. Fisk has always enjoyed literature, this year. Ms. Socorro Yanez (left) and Mr. Justin Fisk (right) together will be covering all
in a part of the Rita community teaching and through that enjoyment he stumbled the Spanish courses offered at Rita. Both look forward to experiencing the Rita tradition.
Spanish 1 and 2. upon his interest of the Spanish language.
Through her teaching, she hopes to pre- After studying the language, he used his After teaching for several years in Mary- opening on the Rita faculty.
pare her students for the changing Ameri- knowledge to train with the United States land, it was during spring break last year Mr. Fisk looks forward to the year ahead,
can society in which Spanish is becoming Foreign Service, our nation’s principal dip- that his wife of 4 years brought him to Chi- and he hopes this is only the beginning of a
very useful. lomatic arm. cago. This trip later led him to apply for an long future with Rita.

Former teachers make their way back to Rita


By Manuel Yu
Senior Writer St. Rita this year are the students. Teaching in the best For the past 20 years, he has been teaching chemistry
thing I’ve ever done in my life and I’ve always learned and mathematics at Evergreen Park High School. This
Fr. Jerry Van Overbeek, OSA, is returning to Rita af- more from my students than I taught them,” he said. year Mr. Krystof is teaching physics and chemistry at
ter being away on other assignments for nine years. To this day Fr. Jerry has remained good friends with Rita, just as he did from ’81-’88.
He is one of the new ministers of hospitality and the as- some individuals he first encountered as students. He holds a B.S. in chemistry and mathematics from the
sistant chaplain to President Fr. Tom McCarthy, OSA. Fr. Jerry’s return to Rita follows his offer to serve as University of Illinois at Chicago.
Fr. Jerry is no stranger to Rita. Prior to his most recent the new hospitality greeter at the main entrance. In addi- While Mr. Krystof has been away from the Rita class-
ministries, he taught Theology 3 and 4 from ’81 to ’99 at tion, he will be providing additional assistance to the Rita room for years, the Krystof name is not unfamiliar to
both the old and new Rita campuses. community with chaplain priest ministry. students as he is married to Rita’s legendary chemistry
“For the past 9 years I’ve been serving in Chicago as a He described his return as a happy one, saying, “I never teacher, Mrs. Susan Krystof.
hospital chaplain and a parish priest,” said Fr. Jerry. really wanted to leave in the first place.” Mr. and Mrs. Krystof have three children. Their two
Fr. Jerry himself is a Rita grad and received a B.A. in Many things have changed in the past nine years, but sons are both Rita graduates.
philosophy from Villanova University and a master’s de- Fr. Jerry pointed out that the physical improvements are “Our sons ended up attending Rita and I really like the
gree in spirituality from the University of San Francisco. not the only things that have taken place. school. I always wanted to get back if I had the chance,”
Before he was ever a member of the Rita faculty, he “St. Rita has become a much more professional, com- said Mr. Krystof.
taught Latin and theology at Austin High School and fortable and happy environment,” he said. He credits his decision to return due to the opportunity
Miriam High School. Fr. Jerry hopes to get to know as many students as pos- presenting itself.
Fr. Jerry has also taught several summer school courses sible this year in the halls, at sporting events, and other “They needed someone for the teaching position and
at five universities throughout the country, including the social events he plans to attend. the timing was right,” he said.
University of San Francisco, Georgetown University, and “From the time I left in ’99 I have always wanted to re- Since the last time he taught at Rita, he has noticed
Boston College. turn. My years at St. Rita as a teacher were the best times many changes. However, he believes the school has
“I love traveling and have a real passion for teaching,” of my life,” he said. maintained tradition.
said Fr. Jerry. Mr. Don Krystof has also returned to Rita after many “I am happy to see that Rita has kept its same sense of
“My favorite part about teaching and coming back to years away. tradition,” said Mr. Krystof.

Photo by Al Smith Photo by Marcus Dyson


FR. JERRY VAN OVERBEEK, OSA , returns to Rita after almost nine years away. He MR. DON KRYSTOF returns to teach physics and chemistry at Rita. Mr. Krystof used to
is one of two new hospitality greeters working at the main entrance of the school. In addi- teach at Rita in the ’80’s, but for the past 20 years taught at Evergreen Park High School.
tion to welcoming students and visitors to the school, Fr. Jerry will be assisting a chaplain. He always wanted to return to Rita and its glad it has kept the same sense of tradition.
October 6, 2008
NEW FACULTY AND STAFF Page 5

Rita welcomes several new faces to faculty and staff


By Luke Konrath & Craig Sabath football.
Sophomore & Freshman Writers “Growing up in Indiana, I hated Notre Dame,” said Mr.
Gilbert.
Mrs. Nikki Rutlin, originally from Glasgow, Scotland, “I wanted a team that wasn’t Notre Dame that still had
is Rita’s new French teacher. She currently teaches all lev- tradition and played hard nosed football though. That’s
els of French. how I became a Penn State fan.”
At the age of 11, Mrs. Rutlin began learning French as Br. Jim Magnan, OFM is one of the two new faces that
her second language. Following her graduation from high greet those who enter the school.
school in Glasgow she moved to Bordeaux, France at age As a hospitality minister, Br. Jim offers a friendly wel-
17. come to visitors, as well as to all students and faculty as
Mrs. Rutlin studied French while in school. However, they walk through the main entrance.
during her eight-month stay in Bordeaux while studying Born in Greendale, Wisconsin, a suburb of Milwaukee,
at the International School of Bordeaux, she also worked Br. Jim is a Capuchin Franciscan who studied at St. Lau-
in a clothing store where she enriched her knowledge of rence Seminary.
the French language, as well as learned much about the Br. Jim explained his calling to be a brother as a gradual
French culture. process beginning in his junior year of high school.
After living in France, Mrs. Rutlin spent six months in “I was writing a term paper on vocations. Afterwards, I
Germany at an international language college followed by made inquiries into several religious orders,” he said.
two months in Italy, during which time she also continued “I was particularly interested in the Franciscans because
her studies in both German and Italian. She went on to of their work with the poor. I believed I would excel in
further study both of these languages at an international helping the poor because I had a background as a nurse,”
university and in other future schooling. said Br. Jim.
Photo by Al Smith
With knowledge of two additional languages, she re- Br. Jim has helped individuals in many capacities over STUDENTS AND VISITORS who enter through Rita’s
turned to Scotland and attended the University of Glasgow the years including the 20 years in which he served as the main entrance may now encounter Br. Jim Magnan, OFM.
for two years. Then after another year in France, this time chaplain for Mercy Hospital. He also worked on an ambu- Br. Jim is one of two new hospitality greeters at Rita.
in Paris, Mrs. Rutlin completed her fourth and fifth year lance in Wisconsin for 5 years and served as a missionary
of higher education and graduated from the University of in Central America for 6 years.
Glasgow in Scotland. Br. Jim’s relationship with Rita came about through his Her talents are party planning and decorating. She is an
Following her graduation, she worked as an interpreter friendship with Br. Gary Hresil, OSA, Rita’s Director of award winning
for a year and then returned to school for another year to Activities. Christmas decorator whose work for the past 10 has been
complete her teaching qualifications. When a flood damaged Br. Jim’s apartment in the seen by many at several well known Downtown Chicago
Mrs. Rutlin began her teaching career at Our Lady of St. Bridgeport neighborhood, Br. Gary and his fellow Augus- Retailers, suburban malls and
Patrick in Glasgow. After a year she spotted an advertise- tinians invited him to live in the St. Rita Monastery for businesses.
ment online for an available teaching position at the Brit- four months. Ms. Nancy Brandes is the new sophomore counseling
ish School of Chicago, leading her to move to the United When he found a new apartment across from St. Gabriel intern at Rita.
States, specifically the Chicago area. Parish in the Canaryville neighborhood, Br. Jim’s time at Growing up in the northwest suburb of Streamwood,
She spent two years teaching at the British School, and the monastery ended. However, he could not stay away Ms. Brandes attended St. Edward’s Central Catholic High
once again noticed an advertisement online, this time for a from Rita for too long, and when a position opened up to School in Elgin. She received a BA in marketing from
teaching position at Rita. be a minister of hospitality, he jumped on the opportunity. Columbia College Chicago.
“I wanted to work in an American high school, and also In addition to greeting those who come in the main en- She is currently a student at DePaul University work-
the American educational system,” said Mrs. Rutlin. trance, Br. Jim is assisting Br. Gary in the Mustang Store ing on a master’s in human services and counseling and
In addition to teaching French, Mrs. Rutlin is getting and Activities Office. works part-time as a legal secretary for a small law firm
involved in athletics and other extracurricular activities. Miss Vivian Oliva joined the Rita family this past May in Skokie.
She plans to work with the drama club and start a French as Administrative Ms. Brandes came upon her position at Rita after meet-
club. Assistant to President Fr. Tom McCarthy, OSA. ing Mr. Tony Miranda, sophomore counselor and theology
Married just this past July, Mrs. Rutlin is happy and en- Miss Oliva grew up in the Pullman area attending St. An- teacher, in a class at DePaul. Mr. Miranda introduced her
joying the many new changes in her life. thony Grammar School and Elizabeth Seton High School. to Mr. Wes Benak, Director of Guidance, who informed
“I feel very welcome here at St. Rita. Everyone is very She went on to study abroad at Emaus University where her of an internship position.
helpful and there is a real sense of community here,” she she obtained her BA in Business. She is currently counseling those sophomore Rita stu-
said. Miss Oliva is the mother of two, a 17-year-old daughter dents whose last names beginning with P-Z.
Mr. Brian Gilbert, a native of Griffith, Indiana, is a who is currently a senior at Marist and a 21-year-old son “I believe my goal is to help students with any issue
new computer science, history, and government and law who is a graduate of St. Laurence High School and is now that may be impacting their academic success,” said Ms.
teacher. a sophomore in college. Brandes.
Mr. Gilbert graduated from Indiana University with a de- With over 18 years of experience in the human resource “I love the staff and students at St. Rita. I love every-
gree in secondary education and a minor in history. field, her most recent job prior to Rita was working 11 one’s dedication to the school, it is a really pleasant work
Unlike some teachers, he does not credit a particular years as an HR associate at a social service agency helping environment,” she said.
teacher in his past as inspiring him to teach. Rather, Mr. individuals with developmental disabilities. When not at Rita, her other job, or working on her de-
Gilbert simply described his decision to become a teacher “Having basically grown up in a private school atmo- gree Ms. Brandes loves film. She dreams of becoming a
by saying, “I just liked the idea.” sphere and a strong Catholic upbringing, I have always screenwriter, and she named “The Godfather” as her fa-
Prior to teaching at Rita, Mr. Gilbert taught at Seton wanted to work in a Catholic School where I still feel very vorite movie.
Academy where he worked with fellow newcomer Mrs. comfortable, so when the opportunity
Mary Albrecht and was the Dean of Students. came up to work at Rita I jumped at the
He explained that part of the reason he chose to leave chance,” said Miss Oliva.
Seton and come to Rita was his interest in being a part of a As administrative assistant to Fr.
school with more tradition. Tom, her main responsibilities are to
When not teaching or spending time on the football field assist him in any and all organizational
as an assistant freshmen football coach, Mr. Gilbert en- and clerical needs that his many presi-
joys being with his wife Marlys and following Penn State dential duties require.

Photo by Al Smith Photo by Al Smith


MR. BRIAN GILBERT joins the Rita faculty as a new computer science, history, and government RITA STUDENTS WHO take French now have Mrs. Nikki Rutlin. Mrs. Rut-
and law teacher. He is also getting involved outside the classroom as an assistant football coach. lin, who is originally from Scotland, feels a real sense of community at Rita.
Page 6
STUDENT VIEWS October 6, 2008

Have you ever thought to launch a


Editorial
Crisis in the Congo human-powered flying machine?
By Kyel White
When most people think of Africa and wars, they think Senior Writer
of Darfur. While not really a war, (the term genocide has
been thrown around a lot), it still has something pertaining
to what we are talking about. It is the new thing, the story Have you ever thought about build-
that everybody latches onto and grieves over. ing a human-powered flying machine
I am in no way trying to belittle the struggle that is taking and then launching it from a 30-foot
place there; certainly our hearts must go out to them, as it tall ramp over a body of water?
is a tragedy. However, the only problem is that nobody is Then get ready for the next “Red
focusing on the looming disaster that could happen with the Bull Flugtag Challenge.”
Democratic Republic of Congo.
The first Flugtag (which means
The public interest is probably for good reason, too. Con-
sidering that the country was named Zaire until 1997, and
“flying day” in German) competition
the fact that it is in the middle of Africa, why should we care took place in Austria in 1991. Since
what goes on there? then, over 35 Flugtag competitions
Their wars do not pertain to us as long as they don’t at- have been held around the world from
tack our powerful allies or us. Sadly, this is true. We cannot Ireland to San Francisco, attracting
intervene every time fights break out between countries. over 300,000 onlookers.
We can, and should, intervene when supplies we need are This year’s competitions were held
in jeopardy and when China threatens U.S. interests. The in Portland, OR, Tampa Bay, FL, and Photo Courtesy of flickr.com
DRC produces over 60% of the world’s cobalt, which is
at Chicago’s very own North Avenue SPECTATORS WATCH AS the “Red Bull Flugtag Challenge” takes place at Chicago’s Navy
used in things like missiles and jet engines. pier. The competition put amateur inventors’ human-powered flying machines to the test.
THE DRC ALSO has over 80% of the world’s known
Beach..
coltan supply, a key component in the high-tech industry. AT FLUGTAG Chicago 2008, 28
Everything from defense computers to cell phones (and teams of wannabe pilots flew their crafts over (and mostly ered in blue body paint in celebration of the famous car-
even a couple VCRs) uses coltan. The most important one, into) Lake Michigan to an audience of 75,000 delighted toon characters’ 50th anniversary.
though, is the DRC’s uranium deposits and China’s ability spectators. Also competing were third place winners Pie in the Sky,
to make things go boom with uranium. While these outrageous machines are primarily judged whose design honored Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza,
The other countries in the “Great Lakes region” of Africa on their distance, the creators don’t expect their machines and Chicago’s own New Style Flyers soared into second
(Burundi, Uganda, and Rwanda) are our allies. They have to actually fly, so creativity and showmanship are a major place wearing baseball bobble heads and carrying bats sa-
been attacking and stealing these resources from the DRC as
part of the machine’s overall appeal. luting their favorite team.
a means to help build their economy. While we do condemn
them for doing this, we also profit. China has built up the
Inventors not only put together a craft that is unique – This year’s grand prize went to the Crustacean Avengers,
DRC’s army and they are now attacking back, stopping all they dress in matching, equally outrageous costumes. whose aircraft soared 120 ft. before plunging into Lake
forces from stealing their minerals. Although there are no creative limitations, there are a Michigan.
But what’s the point of all this? To put it simply, even in few rules and regulations: the machine must be totally The Avengers performed a skit based on a lobster’s re-
our best fighting years we could never dream of defeating human-powered, less than 30 feet wide, and weigh less venge on the angry Swedish chef’s attempt to boil him on
China in a war now. than 450 lbs. (pilot included). “The Muppet Show”.
With 1.2 billion people, we could honestly kill half of One of this year’s teams was the Cactus Smurfs, whose The U.S. record of 155 feet was set last year in Nashville.
their population without losing a single man and they would home hangar is in Chicago. Their crew of four was cov- Do you think you can beat it?
still outnumber us 2:1. It’s unfathomable to think that we
could defeat a country that is ready and willing to send most

What’s That?
of its citizens to be a POW. That’s a POW that we would
need to spend all our money housing and feeding lest we
breach the Geneva Convention.
IF THE DRC were to invade any of the other Great Lakes
The following question was recently asked of several classes of Rita students. Below are some of their responses.
countries, it appears that China might give them full support
The race for the presidency is in full swing. The November election is pitting the Republicans and McCain against
and a blank check. It has been stated they want to amass a
global empire, and the middle of Africa has a lot of supplies the Democrats and Obama. Many people are getting tired of the fighting between the two parties. If you could form
and riches to start. Not to mention that the other countries your own political party, what would it be about? What would you call it?
are our allies and we could find ourselves in real trouble on
a decision. Should we take the wait-and-see approach or risk
losing a war that’s nearly impossible to win? Cesar Morales, freshman: My party
Again, why care? We should because of the fact that we
would be about unity and peace. It
could face a war with one of the highest death tolls in man-
kind. would always go against war and care
We make bigger weapons to deter the use of others using about terrorism and global warming.
big weapons. However, when one uses said weapons, then
we face the consequences. Brandon Johnson, sophomore: I
Think of Hiroshima then imagine bigger versions of that
in bigger cities. The death toll would rise in the millions, would try to help the middle class and
maybe hundreds of millions. That devastation dwarfs any- try to lower taxes. It would be simi-
thing the world has ever seen. lar to the Republican party and would
help people in other countries that don’t
Please note, the editorial is a written view of one St. Rita
have the same opportunities we have.
High School student. It does not necessarily reflect the
views of others at St. Rita or the school as an institution. It would be call the Greatian Party.

Quinn Mitchell, sophomore: It would


The Ritan is a publication of the students of St. Rita be about real problems like lowering
of Cascia High School, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago MORALES insurance costs. My party would work JOHNSON
IL 60620. Phone: 773-925-6600 ext. 6668. Letters to getting oil back under $70 a barrel.
to the editors can be dropped of at the Mel Schreier
Ritan Office located in the academic wing on the Nick Robles, junior: My political party
northwest end of the second floor, submitted via email
would focus on the economy. I would
to editors@theritan.com or given to Mr. Josh Blaszak
choose a group of highly educated and
in Room 206.
relatively young people to prove that
Editors-in-Chief: Marty Malone and Dan Moore we, as young individuals of the future,
Assistant Editor: Dave Schrader can make a difference. We would fo-
cus on the economy because it is at an
Staff Writers: Jorge Barba, Luke Bentley, Brian Boyd, all-time low. People are not spending
Bob Carroll, Joe Cahill, Luke Konrath, Cesar Morales, money and are losing their homes. The
John Murphy, Sean Nolan, Craig Sabath, Al Smith, stock markets are losing money, and as
Alex Summerfelt, Ricky Valadez, Adam Vargas, Kyel well all know, it costs money to make
White, and Manuel Yu
money. Once there is a state of balance,
we can work forward towards bigger
Photographers: Matt Bokowski, Marcus Dyson,
David Huang, and Al Smith problems because as of now “Money
Artists: Matt Gooseherst and Warren Higginbothan Makes the World Go Round.”
MITCHELL ROBLES
Moderator: Mr. Josh Blaszak
October 6, 2008 ELECTION 2008 Page 7

2008 Presidential candidates take their stances


By Dan Moore & Adam Vargas lent issues of the two major party
Editor-In-Chief & Senior Writer Presidential Candidates, Democratic
Sen. Barack Obama and Republican All information on the candidates’
As incumbent President George Sen. John McCain, as well as their political positions courtesy of
W. Bush will finish his second term running mates, Sen. Joe Biden and www.OnTheIssues.org
this January, the American people are Gov. Sarah Palin. http://biden.senate.gov/issues
preparing to elect a new president to
http://mccain.senate.gov/issues
office.
Modern political campaigning, how- http://obama.senate.gov/issues
ever, sometimes makes it difficult to
understand exactly where candidates
stand on the issue.
We here at The Ritan have decided
to provide the stances on some preva-

Sen. Barack Obama Sen. John McCain


home as quickly as possible at a rious by the end of his term; supports on-
rate of one to two brigades a month, bring- going American military presence in Iraq
ing all troops home by summer of 2010 similar to those in Japan, South Korea,
and Germany once combat has ceased
War in Afghanistan: Considers very
important effort; favors sending approxi- War in Afghanistan: Believes more
mately 7,000 additional troops troops (ca. 15,000) must be sent to make
combat operations more successful
Gun control: Supported a ban of all
sales for semi-automatic firearms while a Gun control: Supports 2nd amendment
state legislator; supports individual right
to bear arms, but believes it’s subject to Immigration: Supports securing the bor-
“common sense regulation;” supports na- ders first and then allowing gradual citi-
tional law prohibiting practice of carrying zenship programs for an estimated 12-20
a concealed firearm million illegal immigrants; supports cre-
ation of temporary guest worker visa pro-
Immigration: Supports a guest worker gram with an optional path to citizenship
program as well as a path to citizenship
Abortion: Pro-choice in all cases, sup- for illegal aliens currently living in the Abortion: Pro-life, except in cases of Same-sex marriage: Believes that mar-
ports partial-birth abortions borders; does not support revoking privi- rape, incest, or threat to the life of the riage can only be between a man and a
leges such as a driver’s license for illegal mother woman, voted for barring federal govern-
Embryonic stem cell research: Sup- immigrants ment from recognizing same-sex mar-
ports; was a co-sponsor of 2005 Stem Embryonic stem cell research: Sup- riages; says that same-sex couples ought
Cell Research Enhancement Act Same-sex marriage: Voted against Fed- ports, believes it has potential to cure hor- to, however, be able to enter legal agree-
eral Marriage Amendment which would rible diseases ments
Economy: have defined marriage as a union between
Favors tax cuts for low-income and mid- one man and one woman; supports civil Economy: Favors making Bush tax cuts Energy policy: Wants to end U.S. depen-
dle-class families and repeal of tax cuts unions that would carry equal legal stand- permanent in addition to eliminating dence on foreign oil by beginning off-
for richest one percent of tax payers; fa- ing to marriage for same-sex couples Alternative Minimum Tax to help mid- shore drilling and using more renewable
vors increasing capital gains taxes from income families; wants to create a com- fuel sources such as ethanol
15% to 20% for families whose income is Energy policy: Wants to reduce overall mission to investigate Wall Street
over $250,000 oil consumption; wants to use more hy-
brid and electric cars; does not support War in Iraq: Favors continuing combat
War in Iraq: Has opposed since the be- off-shore drilling; supports windfall tax operations until Iraq is stable; believes he
ginning; would focus on bringing troops on oil companies would be able to bring troops home victo-

Sen. Joe Biden War in Iraq: Was one of the stron-


gest proponents in favor of deposing
Gov. Sarah Palin posed tax increases and Windfall Profits
Tax on oil companies, wants to heavily
Saddam Hussein on the grounds that he reduce wasteful government spending
possessed dangerous weapons; voted in
favor of 2003 invasion of Iraq; has since War in Iraq: Supports Bush Administra-
said that he regrets that decision and tion’s policies in Iraq, but is concerned
agrees with Obama’s withdrawal plan that it will increase foreign energy depen-
dence; has also said that she would like
War in Afghanistan: Sen. Biden has “an exit plan in place.”
not yet addressed the war in Afghani-
stan in his campaign War in Afghanistan: Gov. Palin has not
yet addressed the war in Afghanistan in
Gun control: Highly in favor of assault her campaign
weapons ban; voted to ban semi-auto-
matic forearm ownership to citizens Gun control: Strongly supports 2nd
amendment; supports instituting gun
Immigration: Supports securing of safety education programs for children
borders and guest worker program; sup-
ports path to citizenship; supports pro- Immigration: Gov. Palin has not yet ad-
viding illegal aliens with social security dressed immigration in her campaign

Abortion: Pro-choice; does not support Same-sex marriage: Voted against Abortion: Opposes abortion in all cases Same-sex marriage: Supported Alaska
partial-birth abortions constitutional ban on gay marriage; except when the life of the mother is at constitutional ban on gay marriage, but
Supports civil unions that would give risk also vetoed a bill that would deny state-
Embryonic stem cell research: Sup- same legal status as marriage covered health and retirement benefits to
ports both its practice and funding Embryonic stem cell research: Does not same-sex partners of state employees, cit-
Energy policy: Says top priority is support on the grounds that it takes hu- ing it as unconstitutional
Economy: Opposes Bush administra- solving energy crisis; supports govern- man life, but supports research of stem
tion tax cuts; believes that key to im- ment funding to find new energy sourc- cells taken from sources other than the Energy policy: Strong proponent of en-
proving economy is confronting expen- es human embryo ergy independence; supports drilling of
sive health care and energy costs crude oil and development of alternative
Economy: Has criticized Obama’s pro- fuels such as natural gas
Page 8
TECHNOLOGY October 6, 2008

Rita stays current on technological front


By Marty Malone Note giving is only the beginning of
Editor-in-Chief what these boards can offer, though. A
classroom computer can be controlled
Rita has recently implemented many directly from the board allowing teach-
forms of new technology and has also up- ers to access the Internet directly in front
dated its existing technology. on the entire class, give slide presenta-
Rita now has five SMART Boards© cur- tions, take part in interactive learning
rently being installed, which are interactive activities, and use other computer soft-
presentation boards. ware that enhances the material being
Students in Rita’s French classes with taught in the classroom.
Mrs. Nikki Rutlin are already aware of the “The SMART Board keeps our class
advanced technology that comes with the interesting,” said freshman Aldreon
instructional use of a SMART Board. Ellis. “Going up to the board and writ-
Mr. Paul Harrington, Rita’s Director of ing on it is very fun.”
Technology, recently demonstrated the ca- WHILE MRS. RUTLIN’S board
pabilities of SMART Board technology. was the first to be installed, other rooms
With a SMART Board, teachers can pres- will soon be equipped with this same
ent notes by writing directly on the board SMART Board technology.
or by using a special wireless stylus. The Mr. Josh Blaszak, mathematics teacher
stylus allows the functionality of being able and occupant of room 206, and Mr.
write notes on the board located at the front Tony Sosnowski, social studies teacher
of the classroom while standing anywhere and occupant of 113, were awarded this
in the room. new technology as part of a recent grant
IN ADDITION, ALL notes written on application process. Both identified Photo by Al Smith
the board can be saved in a manner simi- specific plans as to how they will incor- MRS. NIKKI RUTLIN uses the new SMART Board recently installed in her classroom to en-
lar to other computer documents for fu- porate the use of a SMART Board into hance a lesson on telling time in one of her French 1 classes. Mrs. Rutlin is one of 5 teachers who
will be incorporating the use of SMART Board technology in their curriculum and instruction.
ture viewing. This feature may come in their curriculum.
useful when a teacher wants to reference The two newly renovated science labo-
past notes in a current lesson or provide ratories will also have SMART Boards in nual Illinois SMART Board User’s Con- typed homework to the site, which will
students who missed a class with the notes the near future. ference where various methods of using given the teacher the ability to grade pa-
they would have received on the day they Mr. Harrington, Mr. Blaszak, and Mr. this technology in classroom lessons were pers online.
were absent. Sosnowski recently attended the 1st An- presented and discussed. Rita students should be looking forward
“I FIRST BEGAN using SMART to the incorporation of these new features
Boards when I was in college, and they re- throughout the year as teachers implement
ally add to the learning experience,” said them following user training.
Mr. Blaszak. Edline enhancements are not the only
“The capabilities of these boards allow so new updates for teachers this year on the
much more to go on in an everyday class- technology front. All faculty and staff now
room lesson. Teachers are able to add the have a new updated e-mail system.
technology that students are so accustom THE NEW WEB based system will
to these days into their classroom routines. allow faculty and staff to have better e-mail
As a result students become more engaged correspondence between each other as well
in what is going on,” he said. as with parents, students and other Rita af-
Rita has also been undergoing several filiates.
software upgrades this year. In addition, Mr. Harrington decided to
The school’s online grade reporting web- change over Rita’s computer network soft-
site, Edline, has a few newly updated fea- ware from a Novell server to a Microsoft
tures. server.
Many of the main upgrades are mostly “We switched over to Microsoft because
cosmetic. Rita users will find the homep- many other companies’ software products
age has a new glossy icon along with a are made to run on a Microsoft server.
login window. It’s the network standard,” said Mr. Har-
Upon logging in, while users will find the rington.
same main student page as last year, there The new server will be able to grow with
are some updates general users will not Rita’s needs. A problem that often oc-
see. These feature upgrades are primarily curs is that within a couple months after
enhancements for teachers to use for their purchasing technology, that technology
Photo by Al Smith students. becomes obsolete. However, Microsoft
STUDENTS IN MRS. RUTLIN’S class learn interactively by using the room’s new SMART Teachers now have the ability to add on- continuously adds updates to its software
Board. Freshmen Eddie Czerwien (left) and Branden Collins (right) are two of the students line quizzes to their class pages, as well as every month so Rita will be able to stay
benifiting from these boards. Many students say the boards make lessons more interesting. have a portal allowing students to upload current well into the future.

New Rita website ready to launch


By Marty Malone to expand with future standards and technologies of web and the Mother/Son Dance.
Editor-in-Chief development. “I hope the new site will have the feel of a university
Gone will be unnecessary links – some of which bring website, where the audience is not only students and staff
Servers, SMART Boards, and Edline enhancements are visitors to material that is outdated by two years – and a of the school, but also prospective students, alumni, par-
not the only upgrades in the works. page size that scrolls down endlessly. ents and family, media, and the public at large” said Mr.
Currently, when a person visits www.stritahs.com he or THE NEW SITE will have a user-friendly interface, Adam McGrath, Rita’s Director of Public Relations.
she will find a jumble of links, some pictures, and a wide and will include a web specification standard unique to Site visitors can expect to point their browsers to www.
variety of fonts and colors. St. Rita (meaning a standard set of typography, layout, stritahs.com and see a new website on Thursday, October
It seems as good as any other typical high school web- and color themes which will be used throughout the web- 9, 2008. Countdown 10:09:08 has begun.
site. However, Rita strives for excellence in all things, site). These styles will also connect with print materials,
which is why a new website is about to be launched. i.e. recruitment brochures and posters.
Mr. Javier Solorio II, Rita’s Director of Graphic De-
sign, said the idea for the new site came about back in
December of 2007.
“We started drafting our ideas by reflecting upon our
core values and establishing three main objectives for the
new website, to inform, recruit, and advertise,” said Mr.
COUNTDOWN

10:09:08
“WE DECIDED THAT in order for the new website Solorio.
to meet our expectations, the infrastructure would need to The new site will better inform students, faculty, and
be remodeled, including new software and hosting pro- parents of news concerning our school, with the result of
vider,” said Mr. Solorio. fostering the online community.
Mr. Solorio, as an avid technology user himself, felt the The site will also be geared towards recruiting 7th and
current system was not good enough for the needs of the 8th graders to St. Rita. Finally, the site will advertise up-
website. He wanted to design a site with the flexibility coming events, such as Winterfest, the Alumni Banquet,
October 6, 2008
MUSTANG ACTIVITIES Page 9

Student Government prepares for the year


By Kyel White 2008-2008
Senior Writer
Student Government Officers
It is evident by this year’s theme – ‘St. Rita, A
Bond That Never Breaks’ – that the Rita family President
feels closer than ever.
“No one has a better family atmosphere than Martin Hopkins
us here at St. Rita,” said senior Martin Hopkins, Vice President
Student Government President.
The theme for the school year, which is chosen
Dave Marciano
annually by the incoming student government Senior Representatives
officers, was thought up based on the bond this Dylan Dineen
year’s newly elected officials feel is exception-
ally strong at Rita. Dan Harney
“We believe that the bond at St. Rita is ever- Pat McCarthy
lasting because when you graduate you will al-
ways be family,” said Hopkins.
Jack O’Connor
“Many students have made best friends here Junior Representatives
that will last a lifetime,” he said. Dan Connolly
When describing just how the theme is going
Photo courtesy of Advancement Office
to be demonstrated this year, Director of Activi- NEWLY ELECTED STUDENT Government Officers were recently inducted. Marty Kordas
ties and Moderator for Student Government Br. Back row (from left): Pat McCarthy, Jack O’Connor, Dan Harney, Dylan Dineen, Tim Ladd
Gary Hresil, OSA, said “We’ll just have to wait Martin Hopkins, and Dave Marciano. Middle row: Matt McGowan, Marty Kor-
and see.” das, Tim Ladd, and Dan Connolly. Front Row: Dan McGrath, Liam Hopkins,
Matt McGowan
“It’s going to be everybody getting involved Principal Sally Deenihan, President Fr. Tom McCarthy, OSA, and Dan Potempa. Sophomore Representatives
and committing to the Mustang in whatever way Liam Hopkins
we can,” he said. However, Hopkins did share that student government is cur-
Plans are currently underway for the new year by student gov- rently working on producing a monthly newscast that will sum- Ryan McGowan
ernment and they are hoping to make this a year of new ideas and marize the events and highlights from the month and that student Dan McGrath
change. government is welcoming ideas and suggestions for this year’s
“We have some new things planned for both Homecoming and activities.
Dan Potempa
Pride Week this year,” said Bro. Gary, “but we’re not going to “We are trying to get more people involved, and are open to
announce them yet.” anyone’s ideas,” said Hopkins. The Freshmen Class Officers will be elect-
ed in October and will be reported in the
next issue of The Ritan.

Swinging
Mustangs
chip away
at season
By Brian Boyd
Senior Writer

Rita’s Mustang golf team is off to a


solid start, posting a 2-4 record while
posting impressive individual scores.
Led by senior captain Jack Delaney,
the Mustangs have beaten St. Laurence
Photo courtesy of Advancement Office
and Guerin Prep by substantial margins.
RITA FANS CHEER on their varsity Mustangs at the Rita vs. Mt. Carmel football game. The student section led the packed stadium,
giving support that helped motivated the team to bring down the Mt. Carmel Caravan. Student Government hopes to have a success- “We really played well at both match-
ful year with the involvement of the entire student body. The government officers hope to get as many students involved as possible. es, conservatively, but well” said Jack
Delaney.
Due to inclement weather, the team has
only been in 6 matches, with the losses

Marching Mustangs help set the tone coming to Providence Catholic, Brother
Rice, Marist, and St. Ignatius.
The outstanding golfers this year have
been Jack Delaney, junior Tanner Pan-
nozo, senior Dave Fashingbauer, and se-
nior Josh Clemens.
Jack Delaney posted a 36 at Cog Hill
on the front 9 holes against Ignatius.
Even more impressively, he shot a 79 at
the Balmoral Woods tournament, plac-
ing 7th out of 126.
Although facing some adversity this
season, the team keeps an optimistic out-
look.
“No matter how well or poorly we play,
it’s something to do on the weekdays to
keep busy, and most importantly, it’s re-
ally fun. We’ve got great coaches and
teammates, and hopefully the younger
guys will come around for the post-sea-
Photo by David Huang son tournaments” said senior Jack Gol-
THE MARCHING MUSTANGS help to set the tone of Rita’s student pride. The band has been busy practicing, playing at football
drick.
games and hosting the Annual Mustang Stampede. This year band students are even devoting their lunch and TDT time to practice.
October 6, 2008
Page 10
MUSTANG SPORTS
Varsity soccer looking for breakout game
By Luke Bentley
Senior Writer games the Mustangs came up short but
showed strong efforts in each.
Rita’s varsity soccer team started out the As conference play rolled around, the
season as usual: with high standards. Mustangs, two-time defenders of the Chi-
With two previous successful seasons cago Catholic League White Champion-
under their belt, this year’s team expects ship, were hungry for a win.
nothing less. Coach Godinez commented on the Mus-
Second-year head coach, Antonio Godi- tangs trying to three-peat as conference
nez, has set goal high saying, “We need to champs, saying, “Every team will come
improve on our communication as a team out strong against us, but we are capable
and on our soccer IQ.” of winning it.”
When asked about the playoffs and how THE MUSTANGS’S FIRST confer-
far he thinks the team will advance, he ence match was against neighborhood rival
said, “I would like to see us finish strong as St. Laurence High School.
we go into the regionals. I think last year’s The Mustangs came out strong and took
team looked past our first game too much. an early 1-0 lead. The Laurence Vikings Photo by Matthew Bokowski
This year we have to prepare for the first tied it up 1-1 several minutes later. Before SENIOR CAPTAIN LARRY Damico (left) prepares to bring the ball back into play.
round and take it one game at a time.” the end of the half, senior captain Kyle Do- While the varsity Mustangs have suffered some defeats, they have also had their share
The Mustangs started out their season in nahue hit a free kick in to give the Mus- of victories. The team hopes to find its breakout game and end it season successfully.
the Windy City Ram Classic, which was tangs a 2-1 lead at half.
partially hosted here at Rita. The Vikings struck a late comeback to tie comes out and plays hard every game.” nior Matt Carlson and junior Marty Healy.
THEIR FIRST TEST came when they the game up at two apiece. The excitement After the battle at Laurence, the Mus- The Mustangs also beat St. Francis De-
played against a strong Kennedy High grew as the game went into overtime. In tangs traveled the next day to tiny but Sales 6-1, with four goals scored by Kyle
School team. The Mustangs were defeated the second overtime, the Vikings scored on mighty Morgan Park Academy. Donahue, one by Matthew Carlson, and
2-0 but showed a strong effort. a late header in the box to give Laurence a The Mustangs couldn’t keep up with the one by junior Martin Martinez.
Rita played two more games in the tour- 3-2 victory. Class A state-qualifiers as they lost 4-0. With several more conference games to
nament, losing to Argo 5-1 and then beat- Senior Rita Captain, Larry Damico, com- SINCE THE MORGAN Park match-up go, the Mustangs are still waiting for that
ing Tinley Park 3-2. mented on the game, “We played great, the Mustangs have gone on to suffer three breakout game to turn around the season.
The road to victory did not get any easier we came out strong and took control right more defeats against DeLaSalle 4-0, Marist Coach Godinez said, “We still haven’t
as they faced three strong teams in a row: away, but it just wasn’t our night.” 3-0 and Latin 3-0. However, Rita was vic- played up to our full potential. I think as
Lincoln Way North, Marian Catholic, and Larry commented on the future of the torious over Bishop McNamara 3-1 with a whole, we still have a couple more steps
Illiana Christian, respectively. In all three season saying, “I will be happy if everyone goals made by senior John Starcevich, ju- to take.”

Sophomore soccer has one of best starts in team history


By Luke Bentley The sophomore Mus-
Senior Writer tangs look to capture the
CCL White Champion-
The Mustang sophomore soccer team has gotten off to ship with the help of lead-
one of its best starts in Rita history. ing goal scorers, freshmen
The team’s season record is 4-2-4 (wins, losses, ties) Stan Sojka and Mark Mur-
overall and 2-1-0 in the Chicago Catholic League and ap- phy, and under the leader-
pears it will hold very strong for the rest of the season. ship of sophomore captain
The Rita Mustangs defeated Marian Catholic and St. Luke LeBeau.
Laurence and tied Lincoln Way West, Lincoln Way North, The Mustangs also plan
and Illiana Christian. to participate in the sec-
Coach Mike Carlson is very pleased with the team’s ond ever Chicago Catholic
success so far. Sophomore Cup, which
“WE HAVE A strong freshman class to lead St. Rita in was started by Coach Carl-
the future. They are very mature and gel really well,” said son.
Coach Carlson. Coach Carlson comment-
The commitment and character was demonstrated early ed on the players and the
on in the season when they were meeting as a team in season so far, saying, “The
Photo by Al Smith
Rita’s chapel to prior to their first game. Coach Carlson players are motivated and
FRESHMEN ANDY HAYWOOD (left) and TJ Andrews (middle) attempt to make a goal for
described how all 17 of the team players showed up be- focused to the task at the sophomore Mustangs as freshman John Nowobilski (back) looks on. The team is off to one
fore it was necessary. hand.” of its best starts in Rita history. The team hopes to capture the CCL White Championship.

Rita cross country team has Hockey back in gear


common goal of sectionals By Joe Cahill
Senior Writer
Prairie Ridge 5-3. This victory
paved the way to a place in the
By Alex Summerfelt championship, which would offer
Most of the new runners are freshmen and sopho- Rita hockey is back in gear as a re-match against Barrington.
Sophomore Writer
mores, so the future of the program appears posi- the Mustangs recently opened THIS TIME RITA made key
Catching a glimpse of Rita’s Cross Country team, tive. their season competing in The plays that offered a great game
headed by Coach Mike Brennan, it is visible the ALL OF THIS year’s team members, regardless Great 8 Tournament. and a win when it counted. The
team has invested a great deal of time. of age, have a common goal: reaching sectionals. The Mustangs went 4-1 in the final score was 4-3.
The team has started their year with a bang, and The Mustangs haven’t qualified in over 12 years, tournament and ended up taking Senior Chris Cimoch was named
all members are gradually trying to improve their so this is a big goal. home the championship. the MVP of the tournament with 5
times. One distinguishing characteristic of this year’s Their first opponent was Fen- goals and 11 assists.
Coach Brennan said, “We are making positive team is an incredible sense of unity. wick who Rita defeated 7-3. Next The Mustangs also recently
strides. We have a long way to go, but we’re work- Freshman Albert Alfano stated, “I might be a up was Nequa Valley who fell to played in the Bartlett Tournament.
ing hard to get where we want to be.” freshman on varsity, but I still have the same re- the Mustangs in a score of 5-2. They went 2-1 beating Fremd 4-2
He was impressed when 19 of the Mustang’s sponsibilities as a senior. It’s been a great experi- WITH TWO victories the and Cary Grove 5-2. However,
runners finished their first meet with personal best ence meeting new friends, and I have learned a ton Mustangs were on a roll, but a they did suffer a 7-3 loss to York.
times. from the upperclassmen.” game later in the day proved to Head Coach Craig Ferguson,
MANY TEAM MEMBERS attribute this suc- Senior Pat Makisch is setting the bar extremely be harder fight for the team as said “The goals will come if we
cess to running track during the spring season and high for his last year on the team, as he said, “I they took on Barrington. While do the simple things right”
continuing to run independently in the off-season. want to reach sectionals. If we keep working we’ll the team played hard and scored While it is still very early in the
In addition to new leadership under Coach Bren- get there. Also, by the end of this year, I’m break- two goals it wasn’t enough hold season the outlook looks posi-
nan, who became head coach this season, the pro- ing the 18-minute mark.” back Barrington who scored six tive for the defending Kennedy
gram has gained many new members growing im- Hopes are high around Rita for this year’s Mus- of their own to beat Rita 6-2. Cup Champions as the team also
mensely from only 12 team members last year to a tangs. Spectators are advised to keep an eye open A defeat could not keep Rita started its regular season in the
whopping 28 this year. a very successful season. down for long though, as the hit league with a victory beating
Mustangs came back to take down Prairie Ridge 6-1.
October 6, 2008
MUSTANG FOOTBALL Page 11

Sophomores start season 4-1 Freshmen


By Sean Nolan
Sophomore Writer Mustangs
bring on
The sophomore football team is now 4-1 after
a close game against Providence Catholic, which
ended with a Mustang victory of 13-9.
The Mustangs’ season started 3-0 with impres-
sion wins over Lincoln Way Central, DeLaSalle
and St. Laurence.
However, Rita’s next game proved more diffi-
the wins
cult, ending in a devastating loss after a hard fight
against Mt. Carmel. (See John Murphy’s com- By Ricky Valdez
plete coverage of the Rita vs. Mt. Carmel game.) Freshman Writer
From recent comments made by team running
back Travis Starks, as well as those made by cap- Four games left! Four more weeks of
tains Ryan McGowan, Dan Potempa, Tommy football and Rita’s freshmen football
Hitz, and Brendan Cloney, it is clear the team’s team is off to an undefeated start.
expectations for the season have not been met The season opened with a 40-8 victory
yet. over Lincoln-Way Central and continued
ALL AGREE THAT with a little more enthu- strong as the Mustangs took on DeLa-
siasm and a few less mistakes Rita’s sophomore Salle, Leo, Mt. Carmel and Providence
team can be great. Catholic.
The Mustangs’ expectations for the rest of the Against De LaSalle the Mustangs came
season are to win their next few games and hope- out strong scoring on their first drive, and
fully play in the Chicago Catholic League Con- stopping the offensive line of DeLaSalle
ference Championships. Meteors.
“Although individually they all have a common The team finished the first half with
goal, and that is to be brought up to the varsity a great run by Max Kurucar, one of the
team for the State Playoffs; these players are im- Mustang’s captains and completed the
proving each and every game and hope to con- game with a 33-8 win over the Meteors.
tinue growing by gaining more faith in each other WEEK THREE OF the season put
and striving for the best,” said head coach Brian the Mustangs against the Leo Lions and
O’Sullivan. the offense was led to victory by Chris
Photo by David Huang
“THEY HAVE IMPROVED every game and BRIAN LURQUIN (#71), Dan Potempa (#45), Matt Mullen (#25), as well as other Stoeberl who helped put up 40 points to
if they learn from their mistakes each week, then sophomore Mustangs pave the way for quarterback Brendan Cloney (#14). The Leo’s 8. The defense was able to hold
they should be in the running for the Conference team began 4-1 and hopes to build on their success, putting challenges behind them. Leo back with the help of 2 interceptions
Championship,” said Coach O’Sullivan. by Zack Soria.
While this year has begun successfully for the sophomore Mus- There are only a few weeks left in the Mustangs’ regular season, As the Mustangs moved on to their
tangs, in their eyes they can only play better. Mistakes seem to and as they move forward they hope to move past any challenges biggest rival, the Mt. Carmel Caravan,
be the main reason for the team’s moderate season. The team is they have faced and build upon the successes they have experi- the team had to retain its focus.
filled with a great deal of talent and lots of potential. enced thus far. The match-up began with a strong de-
fense and possession of the ball by Rita.

Sophomores suffer heartbreaking defeat The first drive ended in a Rita touchdown
scored by Russell Williams.
THE ENTIRE GAME was dominated
By John Murphy The next few drives by both teams were score tied. Kicker Dan Potempa attempted by the defense, and was kept strong by
Freshman Writer offensive struggles, all of which ended in a 40 yard field goal that would have given the offense. The offense put up 7 touch-
punts, but the Mustangs were determined Rita the lead and victory, but while the downs, while the defense allow the most
Heartbreaker. This is one word that can to put points on the scoreboard. kick had the distance, it sailed just wide points it gave up all season, 14.
be used to describe the Mustangs’ sopho- WITH LITTLE TIME left in the first and sent the game into overtime. “In the 21 years I have been coaching
more football team loss to the Caravan of half, quarterback Brendan Cloney threw Rita once again won the coin toss to be- Rita freshmen, we have never beat Mt.
rival Mt. Carmel. a touchdown pass to Mitch Saffold who gin overtime this time choosing to defend Carmel this bad,” said head coach Jack
The game began with the Mustangs win- made a great catch despite a pass interfer- first. Quinn.
ning the opening coin toss and choosing ence penalty against Carmel. The first half On fourth and goal, Carmel’s quarter- This winning streak has continued as
to receive. After a short return by running ended with the Mustangs leading the Cara- back threw a pass to the end zone where the Mustangs racked up another victory
back Travis Starks the Mustangs offense van 14-7. his receiver came down putting Carmel against the visiting Providence Catholic
headed onto the field, but spent very little Late in the third quarter the Caravan tied ahead permanently. Celtics in week five.
time out as they quickly punted the ball the game on a short run by their running WITH RITA UP on offense, the team The team and its coaches hope to con-
back to the Caravan. back. tried three times, unsuccessfully, to score. tinue the success that has been experi-
MT. CARMEL PUSHED the ball into Despite a fumble by Cloney the Mus- As was the case with the Caravan Rita enced thus far in the season, but know
Mustang territory down to the one yard tangs managed to get the ball back with a went for the end zone on fourth and goal, they must continue to work hard.
line and eventually scoring. turnover of their own. With 5 minutes and but instead of scoring the Mustangs’ en- “We are doing great, but there’s al-
With possession of the ball once again, 41 seconds left in the fourth quarter Jake countered an interception in the end zone, ways time for improvement,” said one of
Rita was more productive forcing the Mt. Pikowski intercepted a Carmel pass and thus ending the game. the team captains.
Carmel Caravan deeper and deeper toward the Mustangs just needed to score in order As the Caravan celebrated its overtime Assistant Coach Jay Standring de-
its own goal line. The drive was capped to win the game. victory, the Mustangs kept their compo- scribed a key element to the team’s fu-
off by a Brendan Cloney handoff to Tra- After a lengthy Rita offensive drive the sure, accepting the loss with true sports- ture game plan by saying, “We must stop
vis Starks for a big gain and a Mustangs’ Mustangs brought their kicking team out manship and looked to the future games of the run.”
touchdown. onto the field with 16 seconds left and the the season.

2 Cool 4 Skool By Warren Higginbothan


Senior Artist
Page 12
MUSTANG FOOTBALL October 6, 2008

Varsity football begins season undefeated


By Brian Boyd Dan O’Neill was named the Larry Garrett threw two touch-
Senior Writer Burger King “King of the Game,” down passes, and sophomore
In collaboration with Joe Cahill pulling in six catches for 108 running back Johwon Akui added
Senior Writer yards and a score. two touchdowns along with a
After the long trip home, the junior Luke Turner 31 touch-
There are two main indicators Mustangs played their home down scamper.
of fall Rita: the start of the new opener against Chicago Catholic The Mustangs took down the
academic term and the return of League rival DeLaSalle. Lions with a final 45-6 victory,
Rita football. The game was all Mustangs allowing them to begin prepara-
After anxiously anticipat- from start to finish, as the defense tions for their yearly showdown
ing the season all summer, the was dominant and made big with the Caravan of Mt. Carmel.
Mustangs are back with a bang. plays. Dave Marciano returned An record crowd estimated to
Off to an undefeated 5-0 start, the an interception and a punt for a be over 12,000 packed into Doyle
Mustangs are dominating both touchdown, and was the catalyst Stadium Friday, September 19th
aspects of the game. in the 35-7 rout of DeLaSalle. to watch what can arguably be
Led by its captains, seniors DAN DISPENSA ALSO ran named the biggest rivalry in the
Dave Marciano, Dan O’Neill, the ball extremely well, adding state of Illinois.
Martin Hopkins, and Tom Rohan, two touchdown runs, and Larry With heavy media coverage
and the backfield of seniors Dan Garret threw one touchdown to and screaming Mustang faithful,
Dispensa and Larry Garrett, the junior Kyle Jachim. Rita came ready to play.
Mustangs have experienced a hot The following week, Rita trav- On the first drive of the game,
start. eled to Gately Stadium where quarterback Larry Garret scram-
After enduring triples in swel- they took on the Leo Lions with- bled for 31 yards, quickly fol-
tering heat, the Mustangs opened out taking a moment to look lowed by a 37 touchdown run
their season Labor Day Weekend ahead their upcoming pairing by Jahwon Akui. The Caravan Photo by David Huang
in the Kirk Herbstreit Ohio-USA against rival Mt. Carmel. answered with an 80-yard touch- THE ST. RITA and Mt. Carmel teams stare each other down as they pre-
Challenge against Lakota West Despite unrelenting rain and down drive, but the Mustangs pared to square off in the most highly anticipated game of the season thus
of Ohio. swamp-like conditions, the were quick to retaliate, and did far. The Rita Mustangs went on to defeat the Mt. Carmel Caravan 35-21.
WITH A SCORE of 0-0 at Mustangs continued their unre- not relent for the rest of the half.
halftime, Rita put up 28 points lenting offensive attack and shut- LESS THAN A minute later, terback Larry Garrett adequate up at 7 with a Dave Marciano
in the second half while holding down defense. Dan Dispensa broke free for a time to throw. touchdown.
off the Lakota West offense, and Rita shut down a 9-minute- second effort 50 year touchdown With the Mustangs playing this “That drive, especially the
finished the game starting their long Leo drive in the first quarter, run. well, they are slated for success long pass from Larry [Garrett] to
season off on the with a 28-21 and never looked back. With the score 14-7, the in the state playoffs, and now [Dan] Dispensa, gave us a huge
victory. Persevering through the rain, Mustangs held the Caravan have the inside track to a CCL confidence boost heading into the
scoreless for the remainder of Blue title. locker room” said senior fullback
the first half, while tacking on “We’ve played really well, but Jack O’Connor.
14 more points before the end of our best football is yet to come,” SIMILAR TO THE first half,
the half with a trick play that set said Dan O’Neill. the second half of the game was
up a Dave Marciano touchdown “Larry’s been playing great, the dominated by defense, seeing as
and then a strike through the air defense is absolutely lights out, the only points scored in the first
by Larry Garrett to junior Kyle and our offensive line is doing 22 minutes of the half were on
Jachim. great.” a Celtics field goal to make it
The Caravan answered back Behind head coach Todd 10-7.
with two touchdowns in the Kuska, the Mustangs appear to be With the ball on the 21 yard
second half, but Dan Dispensa having another spectacular year. line with less than two minutes
sucked the life out of them with However, the team is aware there left, the Mustang offense went
a 5-yard touchdown run near the is still a lot of work to be done to work. With Larry Garrett
end of the third quarter. and they must remain focused. directing the offense towards the
That was all the defense need- AFTER THE physically and Providence goal line, he finally
ed, as senior Jerry Ponio picked emotionally draining win ver- connected in the end zone with
off a Mt. Carmel quarterback sus Mt. Carmel, the CCL Blue Dan Dispensa for a seven yard
Jordan Lynch pass in the fourth leading Mustangs looked to stay score with 19 seconds left.
quarter (all with a broken wrist!), sharp and in first place (5-0, 2-0) Senior safety Erik Rickert had a
and that was it. versus the top ten state ranked huge night with two interceptions
The defensive line dominated, Providence Catholic Celtics. and six tackles.
constantly putting hits on Lynch, On a chilly Friday night at “This was the toughest game
and linebacker Martin Hopkins Providence, the Mustang offense so far, tougher than Carmel. We
led the team with 11 tackles. got off to a slow start, but the showed a ton of character on that
The offensive line, led by stellar defense held their ground last drive” said Dan O’Neill.
seniors Dan Harney, Mike as they have in past weeks. The Mustangs defense was
Photo courtesy of Fr. Bill McFarlane Martin, Matt Munizzi, Jordan Trailing with one minute and absolutely lights out, limiting
SENIOR DEFENSIVE BACK and Dave Marciano (left) skillfully Sodipo, and Kevin McCormack, fifty seconds left on the clock for Providence to 75 total yards of
evades a Lakota West player (center) who was tackled by senior run- were the MVPs of this game, cre- the first half, the Mustangs drove offense and stalling potentially
ning back Jack O’Connor (right). The Mustangs went on to win 28-21. ating huge holes and giving quar- an astounding 97 yards to tie it game changing drives.

Centennial rock marks


100 years of Rita football
By Dan Moore football team looking on, President Fr. Tom
Editor-in-Chief McCarthy, OSA, blessed and dedicated the
Information courtesy of Advancement Office rock in celebration of all past, present, and
future Rita football players.
Moments before Rita’s varsity football The commemoration continued as every
team took the field for their first home game member of the team touched the rock as they
of the season on September 5, 2008 against ran out onto the field that night.
DeLaSalle, a testament to the school’s rich The rock is made of special red-and-black
football tradition was introduced. granite from Italy and sits on a platform
To commemorate the milestone of 100 made of concrete sunk four feet into the
years of Rita football, a centennial rock has ground. This symbol of the long tradition Photo courtesy of Advancement Office
been erected in the north end zone of the of Rita football was generously donated by RITA PRESIDENT FR. Tom McCarthy, OSA, (left) blesses the new Centennial Rock as
Mustangs’ Doyle Stadium. Mr. Dennis Lucas, an alumnus of the class football captains, seniors Martin Hopkins, Dave Marciano, Tom Rohan, and Dan O’Neill
With a crowd of fans, alumni, staff and the of 1966. (from left to right), look on. The rock marks 100 years of football tradition at Rita.

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