Tolle Lege!

SPRING 2011

“Take Up
and Read”
The St. Rita of Cascia High School Magazine

St. Rita Remembers Rev. Walter F. McNicholas, O.S.A. '44 (1926-2011)

T he St. Rita of Cascia High

School Family recently
mourned the loss of one
the school's most iconic legends
in the past half century. Fr. Walter
McNicholas, O.S.A. who served at
St. Rita High School for the ma-
jority of his 58 years in the priest-
hood, passed away on Wednesday,
March 9, 2011.
Fr. McNicholas was a proud
graduate of St. Rita's Class of 1944.
Following graduation he entered
the United States Navy. However,
Fr. McNicholas soon heard his
calling to a life of ministry and pro-
fessed his vows as an Augustinian
on December 13, 1947.
In 1949, Fr. McNicholas earned
his bachelor’s degree in philoso-
phy from Villanova University and
went on to study in Rome where
he earned a bachelor’s degree in
sacred theology. He was ordained
to the priesthood on October 26,
1952 and later returned to school
to earn his master’s degree and
study psychology.
Fr. McNicholas began his first of
many assignments at St. Rita High
School in 1954. While he spent
years away from St. Rita working in
other areas such as parish ministry,
St. Rita was always Fr. McNick's
home.
During his 58 years as a priest,
he spent more than 40 years in
ministering to the students of St.
Rita. Throughout the years, he
taught and nurtured Ritamen as a
theology teacher, coach, counselor,
campus minister, alumni chaplain,
role model and friend.
Over the years, Fr. McNick was
a strong presence in the school as
he personally greeted students by
name throughout the entire day.
He was also a huge fan of St. Rita
sports. No matter the sport, Fr.
McNick would show up to watch
of reconciliation. Fr. McNick lived
his life by example in hopes that
other Ritamen would hear God’s
calling to live a life of Augustinian
ministry.
games, often times cheering St. Fr. McNick’s calm voice, friendly
Rita to victory while he enjoyed smile and encouraging utterances
his pipe. are legendary amongst generations
The young men of St. Rita also of Ritamen. His presence at St.
knew if they were ever in need, Rita will truly be missed, but his
whether it was a belt, a pencil, a memory will live on.
pair of shoes or even some money,
they could stop by Fr. McNick’s
office and he would be more than
willing to help out. During the
homily he gave at Fr. McNicholas'
funeral, St. Rita President Fr. Tom
McCarthy, O.S.A. '83 spoke of how
Fr. McNick would travel regularly
to the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift
Shop to purchase belts just in case
students needed one. His generos-
ity was endless, and it is impossible
to truly know how many Ritamen
Fr. McNicholas aided in some way
over the years.
Generosity was only one way Fr.
McNicholas exemplified life as an
Augustinian. Fr. McNick would
also reach out to students, alumni
and St. Rita families during often
difficult times by attending wakes
for the deceased and he was always
willing to administer the sacrament

St. Rita Scores Big with Freshman Entrance Exam

T he annual recruiting season once again make the original test date attended St. Rita's Principal's Letter 2
proved to be very successful for St. Rita of make-up exam session the following Saturday to
Mustang News 3
Cascia High School as it saw an increase bring the total number to 282. The eighth grade
in its Entrance Exam attendance for the third boys who tested came from 124 different gram- Athletics 4-5
consecutive year. On Saturday, January 8, 2011, a mar schools, including double digit turnouts
total of 277 eighth grade boys made St. Rita their from schools such as: Central Junior High, Mt. Alumni News 6-7
choice for testing, an increase of 5% over last year. Greenwood Elementary, St. Cajetan, St. Cath-
In fact, St. Rita is the only all-boys school in the erine of Alexandria, St. John Fisher and Queen of Advancement 8-9
area to increase its testing number the past three Martyrs.
years in a row. This was also St. Rita's best attend- With registration currently underway, St. Rita NEWS BRIEFS 10
ed Entrance Exam in the past 7 years! is on pace to have its largest freshman class in the
In Memoriam 11
An additional five young men who could not past five years.
 From the Desk of the Principal St. Rita of Cascia High School
Office of Institutional Advancement
Spring 2011 7740 S. Western Ave. | Chicago, Illinois 60620
773.925.5029 | www.stritahs.com
Dear Ritamen, Families and Friends:
Administration
In the last several weeks numerous conversations have been President
heard among students about how they feel the need to know Rev. Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A. '83
about the academic offerings and admission requirements of Principal
various colleges. If I closed my eyes, I might think it is a senior in Mr. Brendan J. Conroy
the throes of his college decision, but very often these comments Vice President
were overheard among sophomores and juniors. Why? We have Mr. Ernest J. Mrozek '71
made a bold decision to change our schedule to a 7-period day
beginning next year, and this has opened up possibilities for Office of Institutional Advancement
exciting new classes for our juniors and seniors. They will be able to take about a Director of Institutional Advancement
dozen new elective courses—including AP Government, Forensic Science, Athletic Mr. Thomas J. Ramsden
Training and various literature classes—and they are thinking about and planning Director of Alumni & Public Relations
for their futures. It is exciting to hear and to see these young men who are so hopeful Mr. Joshua R. Blaszak '02
about their prospects and active in ensuring their own success. Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Trisha A. Harrington
One of the driving forces behind the schedule change is a mandate from the U.S. Advancement O fficer
Catholic Bishops that all Catholic high schools offer 8 semesters of Theology, which Mr. Daniel A. Manzella '03
we will do beginning in 2011-2012. At St. Rita of Cascia High School, where our Director of the Annual Appeal
spirituality is an integral part of our daily lives, strengthening our Theology offerings Mr. John Schmitt '84
will, I think, feel very natural to our students and will bolster their spiritual lives. Director of Graphic Design
One way that is already happening is in the inspiring generosity they have shown Mr. Javier Solorio II '02
this school year, particularly in regard to helping those causes about which they feel
passionately. In the past couple of weeks they have raised over $27,000 for cancer Board of Directors
research through the St. Baldrick’s Day and other activities, and many of the funds Mr. James J. Brasher '71
they raised have been earmarked for the John McNicholas Pediatric Brain Tumor Mr. Nicholas A. Calarco '73
Foundation, established in the memory and honor of their fellow Ritaman of the Mr. Sean J. Carney '74
Class of 2013. The spirit of Caritas lives! Mr. Michael Clarke '75
Dr. John Donahue, Ed.D., J.D.
We have just concluded the last of our winter athletic seasons with the hockey team’s Mr. James Gagnard '64
4th straight Kennedy Cup championship and semifinal finish in the state playoffs. Mr. Thomas M. Harrington '74, Ex-officio
Several of our wrestlers competed in the state finals, and our young basketball team Mr. Thomas J. Healy '83
advanced to the regional championship game. Now, our attention turns to spring Bro. Gary Hresil, O.S.A. '86, Ex-officio
sports, where great things are expected from all our teams. Mr. Gregory J. Jania '89
Mr. Mark A. Kelly '84
It is your generosity that is crucial for the faculty, staff and administration to carry out Alderman Lona Lane, 18th Ward
the mission of St. Rita of Cascia High School. You are partners with us for a future Mr. Timothy I. McArdle (Hon.)
that looks very bright, and for that I am incredibly grateful. The accomplishments of Rev. Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A. '83, Ex-officio
Mr. Ernest J. Mrozek '71, Chairman
our current students—scholarships, academic honors and athletic achievements—
Mr. Charles F. Nash '71
are your accomplishments, too.
Mr. John O’Neill '79
Sincerely,
The Honorable Noreen Daly Reilly
Mr. Stephen M. Schaller '83
Very. Rev. Bernard C. Scianna, O.S.A. '83, Ex-officio
Mr. Terrance R. Stefanski
Brendan J. Conroy Mr. J. J. Wilczewski '92
Principal
Emeriti Board of Directors
Upcoming Events Mr. Ronald M. Abramowicz '60
Mr. Anthony Colosimo '63
April 13 Ritamen Luncheon | 12:00 p.m. Mr. Patrick E. Mahoney '54
Mr. Michael J. McArdle '54
April 29 75th Annual Alumni Banquet & Class Reunion Mr. James C. Miller '47
May 5 St. Rita Novena Mass | 7:00 p.m. Mr. Donald A. Petkus '58
May 11 Ritamen Luncheon | 12:00 p.m. Mr. Edward J. Schmit '63
Mr. Michael Schneider '46
May 13-21 St. Rita Solemn Nine Day Novena | 7:00 p.m. Mr. Arthur R. Velasquez '56
May 22 St. Rita Feast Day Mass | 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
July 13 Summer Ritamen BBQ Luncheon | 12:00 p.m. The Tolle Lege! Magazine is a publication
of the St. Rita of Cascia High School Office of
2 July 22 36 Annual Scholarship Golf Outing | Gleneagles Country Club
th
Institutional Advancement.
MUSTANG NE WS
Mustangs Making News
Two Ritamen Awarded Scholarship In Memory of John Leonard, Jr. '68

S t. Rita of Cascia High School junior Craig

Sabath (Bridgeport Cathloic Academy) and
sophomore Tom Moran (St. Germaine)
were recently awarded the Leonard Scholarship in
memory of St. Rita alum, John Leonard, Jr. '68.
The Leonard Family established this scholarship,
which they plan to award annually, to recognize
current St. Rita students who excel in writing.
The topic of this year’s essay was, “What influ-
ence, if any, should a political candidate’s religious
beliefs contribute toward that person’s political
platform when running for office?”
In his essay, Moran gave several examples of his-
torical and modern political leaders who have made
difficult decisions based on the law and citizens'
civil liberties. Sabath wrote about the importance
of the first amendment and Thomas Jefferson's
St. Rita of Cascia High School junior Craig Sabath (Bridgeport Cathloic Academy) and sophomore Tom Moran
defense of it. He stated that a political candidate (St. Germaine) were awarded the Leonard Scholarship in memory of St. Rita alum, John Leonard, Jr. '68 for
should always remain loyal to his interests of the their outstanding essay submissions. Pictured (left to right); Meg Leonard, Donna Leonard, Craig Sabath,
citizens who voted him into office. Tom Moran, President Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83 and Principal Mr. Brendan Conroy.

St. Rita Names 4th Annual Jasica Art Recipients Twenty Rita Seniors

S t. Rita of Cascia High School recently

announced the winners of the 4th An-
nual Joseph J. Jasica Art Scholarship.
our Augustinian community. Each freshman
receives an Augustinian cross, and ever since
I received my cross I have felt a sense of pride
Rank Amongst Top
Students in Illinois

The program was founded by St. Rita alumni
Mr. Raymond Jasica ’55 and Mr. Robert Jasica
’57, in memory of their brother, Joseph, who
was a 1952 graduate, now deceased. Each
winner was awarded a $500 grant that goes
toward the current school year’s tuition.
The Joseph J. Jasica Art Scholarship Com-
petition encourages art students and the
entire student body to create a piece of art.
There were eight entries this year, which in
some way relate to St. Rita’s mission and tra-
dition. While all demonstrated the talents
and perspective of the artists, two were se-
lected as scholarship winners. The winning
entries were submitted by sophomore Nick
Henrichs (St. Gerald) and his younger broth-
er, freshman Charles Henrichs (St. Gerald).
Nick’s drawing was titled “Mustang Pride.”
Nick said, “I chose to draw a Mustang be-
cause it is truly a symbolic figure of our
school’s pride, in not only who we are, but in
everything we do.”
Charles depicted the Augustinian cross. “I
chose to draw this cross because it represents
T
every time I wear it. It makes me feel closer
he Illinois Student Assistance
to everyone in the school, like we are all one
Commission (ISAC) recently
family,” said Charles.
announced its recognition of
The winners were announced at an all-
17,335 high school students as “2011 Il-
school Mass on January 7, 2011 and the
linois State Scholars.” The students hail
awards presented by St. Rita Principal Mr.
from 749 schools from all across the State
Brendan Conroy, President Fr. Tom Mc-
of Illinois.
Carthy, O.S.A. ’83, art teacher Mrs. Robyn
St. Rita's Class of 2011 has 20 Illinois
Kurnat, and scholarship coordinator Ms.
State Scholars out of a total of 173 senior
Martha Dion. Also present for the ceremony
students.
were Mr. Raymond Jasica, his wife Jeanine,
Illinois State Scholar winners rank in
Mr. Robert Jasica and Mrs. Karen Omastiak,
the top ten percent of high school seniors.
daughter of Joseph and mother to Ritamen
Selection is based on SAT, ACT and/or
Mark ’08 and Brian ’11 (St. Bede the Vener-
Prairie State Achievement Exam scores,
able).
and/or class rank at the end of the junior
The other contest participants were pre-
year.
sented with a commemorative glass keep-
“Excellent high school grades are tre-
sake. Those students were seniors Dan Clan-
mendously important for laying the
cy (Mt. Greenwood), Rudy Comeaux (St.
groundwork for future college success,”
Dorothy) and Nick Zych (Peotone Junior
said ISAC Executive Director Andrew
High); juniors Maximilian Esterhammer-Fic
Davis. “Illinois State Scholars are the
(Clissold) and Sean Esposito (Fierke) and
best and the brightest in our state's high
sophomore Jeries Nino (Oak Lawn-Home-
schools, and we salute them, their families
town Middle School).
and their teachers on this achievement.”

More Mustang News is available online @ www.stritahs.com 3

 ATHLETICS
St. Rita Hockey Wins 4th Straight Kennedy Cup Championship

F or the 4th straight year, St. Rita of Cascia High School's Varsi-
ty Hockey team has brought home the prestigious Kennedy
Cup Championship.
Under the leadership of Head Coach Craig Ferguson, many of
the seniors will now be graduating in May having won four hockey
championships, including last year's Blackhawk Cup State Cham-
pionship. Senior Mike Tisoncik (St. Michael) is graduating having
been a part of all four championship teams.
The Mustangs defeated Fenwick 4-2 on Tuesday, March 22, 2011
in Game 3 of the Kennedy Cup finals. Sophomore Marty Napleton
(St. Francis Xavier) was named the Kennedy Cup Most Valuable
Player.
Other special honors for the Varsity Skating Mustangs came when
senior Alex Roman (St. Bede the Venerable) was named to the All-
State Team, and he along with seniors Mike Ferguson (St. Damian),
Tisoncik, Dan Foley (Homer Junior High) and sophomore Keith
Photo courtesy of Ralf Lipp, owner and lead photographer, FotoGraf Imaging.
Burchett (St. Isaac Jogues) were named to the All-Catholic Team.

St. Rita Senior Brian Lurquin Earns NFF Scholar-Athlete Award

S t. Rita of Cascia High School senior

Brian Lurquin (Oak Lawn-Hometown
Middle School) was recently one
of three recipients in the Chicago area for
the National Football Foundation (NFF)
Scholar-Athlete Award.
With the NFF Award, Brian earned a
college tuition scholarship of $6,000 to the
college of his choice, which he has chosen to
be the University of Wisconsin, Platteville.
Todd Kuska, Head Coach of St. Rita’s
Varsity Football Team, nominated Brian for
this award and each scholarship nomination
was reviewed by Teddy Greenstein, Chicago
Tribune’s lead college football sportswriter.
Brian and the other NFF Scholar-Athlete
Award were honored at a special ceremony
at Halas Hall on Monday, February 21,
2011. Coach Kuska had the privilege of
introducing Brian at the ceremony.
Brian currently ranks in the top 10% of
his class, is a Gold Honor Roll student for
4.0 or higher GPA, is a member of the St.
Rita Chapter of the National Honor Society
and was Captain of the 2010 St. Rita Varsity
Mustang Football Team that won the
Chicago Catholic League Blue
Championship and made it to
the IHSA 7A State Semi-Finals.
As Center, Brian was a two year
starter and developed into one of
the best offensive linemen St. Rita
has had in recent years. For the
2010 season, Brian was also 1st
Team All-Conference, part of the
SouthtownStar All-Area Team,
an IHSA All-State Honorable
Mention and named to the
Illinois High School Football
Coaches Association All-State
Academic Team. Following St. Rita of Cascia High School senior Brian Lurquin (Oak Lawn-Home-
the football season, St. Rita town Middle School was recently awarded the National Football Foun-
awarded Brian with the Kevin dation Scholar-Athlete Award. He is pictured with Chicago Bears Head
Coach Lovie Smith, who congratulated him at the award ceremony.
Kehoe Award, which is given to
a senior athlete who exemplifies Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park with the
the Sportsmanship and Excellence of “Ritamen Wear Pink” campaign.
Kevin Kehoe through his performance and “Brian is a great example of the type of
dedication. student athlete that we have at St. Rita. He
As a Team Captain, Brian was a part of is dedicated to his academics, athletics and
the Football Senior Leadership Council also his community. I am very proud to say
that helped raise over $7,000 in October for that Brian was one of our captains and senior
The Cancer Center at at Little Company of leaders this past season,” said Coach Kuska.

Solid 2010-2011 Season for Basketball and Wrestling Teams

S t. Rita of Cascia High

School's Varsity Mustang
Basketball and Wrestling
teams did not come away with
the championships they had
hoped for, however, both teams
had a solid 2010-2011 season.
Head Basketball Coach Gary
DeCesare continued to build up
St. Rita's program, guiding the
Mustangs all the way to the IHSA
4A Regional Championship
game versus Mount Carmel.
While the season just ended,
Coach DeCesare the Mustangs
are already looking forward to
next year, with their sights sets
The Wrestling team had
success with a state high of seven
state qualifiers, including three
two-time state qualifiers. Next
year looks bright as six of the
on a championship. qualifiers will be returning.

4 TOLLE LEGE! SPRING 2011

 ATHLETICS

ST
Seniors Sign to Play College Football BAND

F
BASEBALL
ive St. Rita of Cascia High School Varsity Mustang Football players
signed letters of intent to play college football on Friday, February BASKETBALL
4, 2011. This season, they helped their team obtain the Catholic

RITA
FOOTBALL
League Championship and advanced to the IHSA Class 7A semi-finals. FUNDAMENTALS

FOOTBALL
The Ritamen from the Class of 2011 will attend and play at the following: QUARTERBACK
Tim Gorski (Tight End) - Western Kentucky University LACROSSE
Tom Hitz (Offensive Lineman) - Saint Xavier University
LANGUAGE ARTS
Brian Luquin (Offensive Lineman) - University of Wisconsin, Platteville
Jack Sheahan (Offensive Guard) - Yale University MATH
Travis Starks (Running Back/Defensive Back) - Indiana State University RECREATION

CAMPS
RUGBY

2011
SOCCER

SPEED/TRACK

For kids in grades 1 thru 9 VOLLEYBALL

WATER POLO
Visit
www.stritahs.com/camps
for dates, details and
to register.
Questions?
Call 773/925.7482
Five members of the St. Rita of Cascia High School Varsity Mustang Football team recently
signed national letters of intent on Friday, February 4, 2011. Pictured (standing, left to right);
Athletic Director Mike Zunica, Head Coach Todd Kuska, and Principal Brendan Conroy. (Sitting
ST. RITA
of Cascia High School
left to right): Jack Sheahan (Sutherland), Brian Lurquin (Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School),
7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60620
Travis Starks (Emmanuel Christian), Tim Gorski (St. Alexander) and Tom Hitz (St. Cajetan).

Two Class of 2011 Varsity Mustangs Sign to Play Division I Baseball

T wo members of St. Rita of Cascia High School's

Varsity Baseball team signed national letters of
intent to the Division I colleges of their choice.
These two players were members of the 2010 Baseball
team that made it to the IHSA State Finals.
St. Rita of Cascia High School Var-
sity Baseball players, seniors Joe
Filomeno (St. Odilo) and Brian
Sicher (Jerling Junior High) have
signed to play Division I Baseball
at the University of Louisville and
the United States Air Force Acad-
The Ritamen will attend and play at the following: emy, respectfully. Pictured (left
Joe Filomeno (P/1B) - University of Louisville to right); Joe Filomeno and Brian
Brian Sicher (C/LF) - United States Air Force Academy Sicher.

Don't MISS a Minute of the Action!

St. Rita Spring Sports Schedules, Photos, Videos and More
Are Available Online @ www.stritahs.com

Veritas † Unitas † Caritas 5

ALUMNI NEWS
Two Legendary St. Rita Teachers ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Honored with Fidelitas Award Dr. Eric Whitaker '83 Featured

T wo of St. Rita of Cascia High School's retired legends, Mr.

Flory Dodge and Mr. Gus Jeffery, were recently honored
with the Fidelitas Award, an Augustinian loyalty award,
in recognition of their 40 years of service to St. Rita.
Mr. Jeffery (pictured middle) taught economics, typing,
D
in Crain's Chicago Business
r. Eric Whitaker '83
was the subject of
the "Info Junkie"
column in the March 21,
shorthand, accounting and English during his 35 years. He also
2011 edition of Crain's Chi-
chaired the business department, was involved with curriculum
cago Business.
and physical plant development and established a resource cen-
An excerpt from the ar-
ter. In addition, he helped to establish the Mustang Award.
ticle: Eric Whitaker's friends
Mr. Dodge (pictured on left) taught woodshop, metalshop and
Barack and Michelle Obama
mechanical and architectural drawing.
staged a mock intervention for
this political junkie, 45, while
campaigning together in 2008,
attempting to confiscate his
BlackBerry and laptop. But the
executive vice-president of strategic affiliations and associate dean of
community-based research at the University of Chicago Medical Cen-
ter stayed hooked.
Please visit www.chicagobusiness.com to read the remainder
of the article about Dr. Whitaker, including a mention of St. Rita
of Cascia High School!

St. Rita Hits the Road Across the Country to Connect Ritamen

T his winter St. Rita of Cascia High School Presi-

dent Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83 and staff
from the Office of Institutional Advancement
visited alumni in Los Angeles, CA, Las Vegas, NV,
Scottsdale, AZ, Naples, FL and West Palm Beach, FL.
In all over 100 members of the St. Rita family attended
one of these events.
A great time was had by all as they relived memories
of their days at St. Rita, and received updates on how
the school’s mission to provide the best college prep
education in the Chicagoland area is alive and well. A
special thanks goes to Hank '62 & Valerie Szopinski for
hosting the Scottsdale Gathering, to Art ’56 & Joanne
Velasquez for hosting the Naples Gathering, and to Bet-
ty Napleton (widow of Fran '43) for hosting the West
Palm Beach Gathering.
Plans are already in the works for regional gatherings
during the 2011 – 2012 academic year. Details will be
announced in the fall edition of the Tolle Lege! If you
are an alumnus that splits time between Chicago and
another location please contact the Office of Institu- Over 100 members of the St. Rita of Cascia Family recently attended several regional events held
tional Advancement so that we can set up a ‘seasonal throughout the country. These great events allowed time for alumni to relive old memories and to get
address’ for you to be invited to an event next year. updates on the school. Above are pictures for the Scottsdale, AZ gathering held in February.

Become a member of the 1905 Guild. Remember St. Rita of Cascia High School in your Estate Planning.
For information on assisting St. Rita through your estate plan and becoming a member of the 1905 Guild, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 773.925.5029.

6 TOLLE LEGE! SPRING 2011

 2011 75TH ANNUAL ST. RITA HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI BANQUET

$100 Bonanza Tickets Friday, April 29 2011

St. Rita of Cascia High School
Includes dinner, drinks and a chance to win Gymnasium
Grand Prize - $2,500 or Second Prize - $500
Cocktails – 6:00 p.m.
Dinner – 7:30 p.m.
Tickets $65 in Advance 7740 S. Western Ave.
This event will sell out. Chicago, IL 60620
We recommend purchasing tickets soon.
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All Major Credit Cards Accepted Online: www.stritahs.com/alumni
Visa or MasterCard Accepted by Phone: Call (773) 925-5029 r
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We invite you to visit the Alumni Banquet webpage For More Information...
at www.stritahs.com/alumni to view this year’s full Josh Blaszak ’02
Director of Alumni & Public Relations
list of Alumni Banquet Honorees! (773) 925-5029 | Ext. 6626
jblaszak@stritahs.com
Please send the form below with cash or check to order your ticket by mail.

Name Class Year

Address City / State / Zip

Phone Email
Seating by class year, unless otherwise requested:
# of Bonanza Tickets: x $100 each = $
Includes Dinner & Raffle Entry
# of Standard Tickets: x $65 each = $
Please make check payable to
Total Amount Enclosed $ St. Rita High School
Mail to: St. Rita Alumni Banquet
75th Annual St. Rita of Cascia High School Alumni Banquet 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60620
ADVANCEMENT
Dinner, Dancing, Auctions, and more...Dinner Dance a Success

S t. Rita of Cascia High School’s Valentine Dinner

Dance proved yet again to be a huge fundraising
success for the school. The event, held on Satur-
day, February 12th at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Grand
Ballroom, boasted its biggest turnout yet with a sellout
crowd of 548. This year’s success was also shown by the
over $230,000 raised for programs at St. Rita.
As dinner began guests heard an incredible speech
given by senior Dan Foley. Dan described how the St.
Rita Family has positively impacted his life over the past
four years. He spoke of the various choices he had for
attending high school, but how the choice he made to
attend St. Rita has been one of the greatest decisions in
his life thus far.
St. Rita High School President Fr. Tom McCarthy,
O.S.A. '83 took the stage following dinner to award this
year’s special honorees. Mr. Kevin Healy was awarded
the Tolle Lege Community Service Award. Mr. Healy, St. Rita of Cascia High School President Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83 and Athletic Director/Valentine
a graduate of Quigley South Preparatory Seminary, has Dinner Dance Coordinator Mike Zunica (Hon.) present this year's Valentine Dinner Dance "Couple of the
been a true Southsider his entire life. One of his main Year" Mr. and Mrs. Bill '73 and Ayleen Abramowicz.
goals in life has been to make a difference in the lives of
others. He has been an instrumental figure in coordi- The Crest of St. Augustine Award was presented to Mr. Jim Miller
nating over 150 events and fundraisers in the area. '47. Mr. Miller's association with the administration of St. Rita began
Mr. and Mrs. Bill '73 and Ayleen Abramowicz were honored as the in the late 1970s. He was the first Chairman of the Board of Advi-
2011 Couple of the Year. Mr. Abramowicz is a proud alumnus who sors, and is now the Chairman Emeritus. In 2010, he established the
has supported St. Rita in numerous ways over the past 37 years. He JKM fund to provide the school with a steady and increasing flow of
was part of the original Valentine Dinner Dance Committee. cash to help meet future financial needs.

!
D ATE
Level of Scholarship & Financial Aid Offerings TH
E
VE
for St. Rita Students Breaks $1,000,000 Mark SA

T hanks to you, our generous Alumni

and Benefactors, St. Rita of Cascia
High School has been able to
provide $1.1 million in Financial Aid and
scholarships to current, deserving families.
St. Rita prides itself on not letting a family's
financial situation be the reason that a
young man is unable to pursue his dream of
becoming a Ritaman and benefitting from
the Augustinian Experience. The school
would not be able to provide this amount of
assistance if it were not for our alumni, friends
and organizations such as Big Shoulders and
Food 4 Less.
The largest source of funding is our Annual
Appeal, which covers over two thirds of the
Financial Aid and Scholarships provided to
students each year. “It is humbling to see
our Annual Appeal continue to grow as you
hear of other organizations not having the
same success. This is thanks to the extreme
generosity of our incredible alumni and
friends,” said Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83.
Each year our Annual Appeal continues to
grow in response to the needs of our families.
As Fr. Tom said of the late Fr. Walter
McNicholas, O.S.A. '44 during his homily at
Fr. McNicholas’ funeral, he was always doing St. Rita’s 36th Annual
something to make a difference in “that one
student.” Fr. McNicholas would provide a
Scholarship Golf Outing
belt or a pair of shoes or even a few dollars
in the cafeteria to a student in need. Acts Friday, July 22, 2011
of generosity that were not a big deal, but Gleneagles Country Club
they made a difference to “that one student.”
Please know that your gift, regardless of size, 13070 McCarthy Road
will make a difference in the life of “that one Lemont, IL 60439
student”, and the entire St. Rita community
is grateful.
If you have not been able to make a gift to
the Annual Appeal yet this year we ask that Call 773-925-5029 to
you consider making a difference in the life of Register your Foursome!
a young Ritaman by making your gift today.
To donate to the 2010-2011 Annual For Details Visit
Appeal, you can either use the enclosed www.stritahs.com/alumni
envelope or visit www.stritahs.com/donate
to donate by credit card.

8 TOLLE LEGE! SPRING 2011

 Ways to Give to St. Rita
Direct Gifts
Direct monetary gifts are accepted in the form of checks, charges or
money orders. Payments can be made to the Office of Institutional
Advancement at St. Rita of Cascia High School. You can also visit
www.stritahs.com to make a gift online using a credit card. Please
contact a member of the Office of Institutional Advancement for
more information on giving or making a pledge.
Gifts-in-Kind
Another way benefactors may choose to help the students of St. Rita
of Cascia High School is through gifts-in-kind. The value of these
gifts is included in the respective individuals’ total giving during a
respective fiscal year. Following is a small sampling of these types of
gifts that were received in the past includes:
• Sporting event tickets to be auctioned at the Annual Valentine
Dinner Dance, Winterfest or Golf Outing
• Legal Services
• Construction Services
• Electrical Services
Please contact a member of the Office of Institutional Advancement
if you have questions about what types of services are needed, and
how to give an in-kind gift.
Matching Gifts
Check with the human resources office at your place of employment
for a matching gift form, and enclose it with your contribution. Your
annual total giving record in the annual report will be soft credited
for the amount of your company’s matching gift.
United Way
Many corporations take part in a annual United Way giving program.
Did you know that you can designate your contributions to be sent
to St. Rita of Cascia High School? Contact the Office of Institution-
al Advancement for more information or contact your company’s
United Way Coordinator.
Planned Gifts
There are various types of Planned Gifts that you can use to assist St.
Rita of Cascia High School including, bequests and life insurance.
Some Planned Gift additional options that St. Rita is working to ac-
cept include:
• Charitable Gift Annuities - payments to donors begin as soon
as the gift is made, and donors receive immediate tax deduc-
tions.
• Deferred Gift Annuities - the donor has flexibility in determin-
ing the start date of payments. For example, if the gift is made
at age 50, the donor may choose the starting date of the pay-
ments anytime between the ages of 55 and 80. Charitable de-
ductions are available immediately.
• Real Estate – generous benefactors have used various vehicles
to donate appreciated real estate to St. Rita High School in the
past. Please contact the Advancement Office to learn more
about how you can assist our students through a gift of real
estate.
Veritas † Unitas † Caritas
Stock Gifts
When considering a gift to St. Rita of Cascia High School, donors
often think of giving cash. However, because of the enhanced tax
benefits, other kinds of assets (stock and real estate) are used to
make gifts. If you gift St. Rita with stock, please be sure to include
your name, the name of the stock, the number of shares and the date
of the transfer. Please notify Tom Ramsden or John Schmitt when
considering a stock transfer to St. Rita so that you have the proper
account information.
If you gift St. Rita with a stock certificate that is already in your name,
please contact your broker for a stock power document. Your stock
certificate will have to be signed and dated by those whose names
are on the certificate, and we will need a brief note indicating your
intentions of transferring the stock to St. Rita.
In Memory or Honor of Someone Special
Many families have chosen to make gifts to St. Rita of Cascia High
School In Memory of (IMO) a loved one, or to send gifts In Honor
of (IHO) an individual. The Office of Institutional Advancement
can assist in establishing either IMO or IHO funds.
1905 Guild
We invite your partnership in continuing St. Rita of Cascia High
School’s heritage. Generous benefactors who have remembered St.
Rita in their wills and estate plans during their lives are members of
the 1905 Guild. The purpose of the 1905 Guild is to strengthen the
mission of St. Rita by involving its alumni, parents and friends with
the contemporary work of the school.
For more information on any type of
planned gift please contact:
Tom Ramsden
Director of Institutional Advancement
773.925.5029
tramsden@stritahs.com
WE'VE JOINED TIX4CAUSE.COM!
If you are looking to buy or sell event tickets, please
visit tix4cause.com. 100% of the proceeds from your
transaction can benefit St. Rita of Cascia High School.
9
NEWS BRIEFS
KEEPING TRACK
Kenneth Ucho'60 recently retired as principal from St. Daniel the Prophet
School. Ucho was with the Archdiocese of Chicago for 42 years.

Bill Roscoe '63 retired from Allstate Insurance Co., Northbrook, IL after 37
years. Roscoe and his wife Rae now reside in southwest Wisconsin. They have six
children and 10 grandchildren.

Mike Eckert '65 is Executive Chairman of Atlanta Technology Angel Investors

and a Fellow for Georgia Tech Venture Lab.

Tom Winski '67 has achieved Master Journalism Educator status from the Jour-
nalism Education Association. Winski currently teaches at Winchester High
School, Winchester, IL.

John Koch '82 presently holds the rank of Commander at the Lansing Police
Department. Koch, who has served Lansing since 1995, oversees the Support
Services Division, and is responsible for Department purchasing and finances,
as well as building, property and fleet management, the 911 Center, the Records
Department and Community Policing.
Jose Orozco '89 is currently the architect and construction manager for Wight
and Company in Darien. Orozco has been married to his wife Grace for 14 years
and they have two daughers.
While in London, ENG for last summer's 10th International Augustinian Youth Encounter,
St. Rita of Cascia High School's group ran into Sean Ford from the Class of 1986 while
they were in Westminster Abbey. Pictured (back row, left to right); Dan McGrath '11,
Neil Spore '12, Ryan Mulcahy '11, Sean Ford '86, Augustinian Prior Bro. Gary Hresil, O.S.A.
'86 and Bro. Jack Hibbard, O.S.A. (Hon.). (Front row, left to right); Bob McGeever '12,
Matt Turner '12, St. Rita President Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83 and Bobby Carroll '11.

David Novak '95 has taken a job teaching at Erasmus University in Rotterdam,
The Netherlands.

Sean Johnston '01 and his wife Amber married in 2007 are now the proud par-
ents of 5lb 3oz., 18 in. Sean M. Johnston, Jr. born on February 23, 2011. Though
a month early baby and mother are doing wonderful. Connie Johnston (Hon.)
is the proud grandma.

Kevin Hicks '03 married his wife Camille this past October. Pictured above are
the Hicks at their wedding with their St. Rita Alumni guests. (Back row, left to
right); Bob Stalley '03, Bob Pentek '03, Ed Velasquez, Sr. '68, Kevin Hicks
'03, Mark Fennell '02, Tom Darwin '96, Steve Parker '03 and Tom Stalley
'04. (Front row, left to right); Ed Velasquez, Jr. '95, Bob Fangerow '03, Camille
Hicks, Dan Gleich '03 and Jim Stalley '03.
Mike Justich '04 is currently living the dream in China. Following his graduation
from his college's Chinese program, Justich accepted a position as Assistant Man-
ager with a new American company in China called Color-Me, which is a subsid-
iary of S&S worldwide. He is is responsible for business development, marketing
and training teachers on how to use the products.
Joey Famera '05 and his wife Danielle welcomed their first child Joseph John, Jr.
Martin Hopkins '09 has accepted membership into the National Society of Col-
legiate Scholars. Hopkins currently attends the University of Iowa.
The St. Rita of Cascia High School Family truly comes together in support of one other,
and this has been shown in numerous ways over the past year. With so many students
and families being affected by cancer, so far, this academic year fundraisers led by the
students have brought in over $35,000 for charities fighting cancer. Following the
death of their fellow Ritaman John McNicholas '13 in January from cancer, the St. Rita
Family raised funds for the John McNicholas Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. John's
classmates presented a check for $2,410.64 to his parents Amy and Ed '83 McNicholas.
As the Ritamen presented the check they pledged that this would only be the one of
many contributions made to John's Foundation. They plan to continue doing all they
can to raise more money and awareness for the fight against cancer.
The St. Rita Grammar School Class of 1961 is planning to hold its 50th Anniversary
Reunion on Friday, September 16, 2011 at Georgio's Banquets in Orland Park, IL.
Approximately 60% of the class has already been located. However, If you have
not yet been contacted or know of someone (like a sister or cousin) within this
class, please contact Joseph Raftery '65 by phone or email at 708.633.7964 or
mrjoejlr@sbcglobal.net with a name, phone number and e-mail address.

Ritamen Luncheons are the second Wednesday of every month, with the exception of June and August. They are designed to celebrate Ritamen
Ritamen who graduated 40 plus years ago. These luncheons are held in the St. Rita Chapel Foyer. Lunch is served at Noon followed by a guest speaker.

Luncheons This gathering provides Ritamen the opportunity to refresh and renew their bond with St. Rita of Cascia High School. Memories are shared,
stories are told and current happenings around St. Rita are discussed. Please call 773.925.5029 to RSVP by the Monday prior to the Luncheon.

10
10 TOLLE LEGE! FALL 2010
TOLLE LEGE! SPRING 2011
 St. Rita of Cascia: A Saint for Our Day
In Memoriam
Wi fe, Mother, Widow, Aug ust inian Nun, Peacemaker

Solemn Novena
The St. Rita of Cascia High School Office of Institutional Advancement has been notified of Friday, May 13, 2011
the following deaths of alumni, family and friends. through
Sympathies are expressed to the family members and friends of the following: Saturday, May 21, 2011
Joseph Kirby – 1937 Frank Marsillo – 1953 James Maksym – 1965
6:00 p.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation
Frank Magnan – 1941 Joseph Lenard – 1956 brother of Ed ’58
7:00 p.m. Mass and Novena Prayers
Walter McNicholas, O.S.A. – 1944 John Amonino – 1957 John Leonard – 1968
Walter Bock – 1945 Barry Sullivan – 1958 Francisco Coronado – 1971 Feast Day Masses
Louis Skwarek – 1945 Thomas Zych – 1958 Keith Pacini – 1971 Sunday, May 22, 2011
father of Ron ’70 Bruno Janis – 1959 Randy Fedro – 1973
Bill Smith – 1945 James Markham – 1959 brother of Dave '69 and Steve '74
9:30 a.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation
Donald Reilly – 1946 Walter Bozek – 1961 William Dvorak – 1976 10:00 a.m. Mass and Novena Prayers
Jim Igoe – 1947 Bill Koehler – 1961 brother of George ’81
6:00 p.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation
John Nolan – 1950 Bernard Kordell – 1962 Tom Smikoski – 1983 7:00 p.m. Mass and Novena Prayers
grandfather of Brendan ’10 and Sean ’11 Anthony Radzukinas – 1962 Richard Jaskierski – 1985 Blessed Roses will be distributed at the
Eugene Dengler - 1951 William Wegreke - 1962 Byron Jackson – 1993 Feast Day Masses
Chester Haraf - 1951 Fred Ehrl – 1963 John Keevers – 2001
David Kasha – 1951 John Hopper – 1963 Mike Rauen – 2005 St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel
Bob Kulovitz – 1951 Michael Pusateri – 1963 John McNicholas -2013 7740 S. Western Ave. | Chicago, Illinois 60620
George Schranz – 1951 John Gumbaragis – 1965
Teresa Alonso, grandmother of Armando Alonso '14 George Hollendoner, father of Dan '93 and Jason '96 Joan O'Malley, former SR Mothers' Club President, mother of
Rev. Robert Andrews, O.S.A. Grover Howard, grandfather of Malcolm Carter '11 Pat '77 and grandmother of Pat '07
Margarita Arteaga, grandmother of Bob '84, Mark '85, Ellen Howe, mother of Rev. Chris Howe, O.S.A. Eugene O'Neill, grandfather of Chris '14
Kevin '88, Mike '90 and Eric '97 Kay Jilek, mother of Bob '72, Ray '78 and grandmother of Annie O'Rourke, mother of Bill '75
Dennis Baker, grandfather of Zak Bernicky '12 Michael '97and Dan '07 John O'Sullivan, grandfather of Brendan '13
Clara Barton, mother of Joe '52 Tom Joyce, father-in-law of Bob Murphy '81 Joan Petrie, aunt of Brendan Conroy, SR Principal, and Sr. Ardis
Michael Bitter, cousin of Ryan Rusch '11 Rosemary Kellam, grandmother of Bob '92 and Kieran '98 Cloutier, O.S.F., Augustinian Vocations Staff
Kathy Bowden, friend of Greg Cozzi '72 Laraine Kienzle, grandmother of Joe '06 and Dan '09 Ann Placentra, friend of Sr. Ardis Cloutier, O.S.F., Augustinian
Sheila Brennan, friend of Rev. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. '83, SR Dispensa Vocations Staff
President Rose Klenn, mother of Bill '74, Jim '76 and Charles '78 James Ramos, father of John '91
Philip Broderick, father of Phil '66, Kevin '68, Michael '70, Rev. Edwin Kuczynski, O.S.A., former SR Faculty Mike Rehfeld, uncle of Marty '11, Billy '12 and Johnny '14
Steven '75 and Robert '83, father-in-law of Michael Callaghan '69, John Lacny, cousin of Joe '64 Kenneth Robillard, father of Jeff '12
Terrance Schlyer '70, Paul Tebo '70 and grandfather of Michael '96 Josephine Latronico, mother of Glen '74, Gary '76, mother- Jakob Sabath, grandfather of Craig '12
and Terrance '00 Schlyer, Daniel '06 and Mitchell '08 in-law of Wally Langolf '70 and grandmother of Matt Kukulski '06 Eleanore Segredo, mother of John '70 and Jim '73
Mike Callahan, father of Michael '13 Richard Lebold, grandfather of James Markvart '14 Laura Shurna, grandmother of John Dixey '07
Peach Carlson, mother of Michael '06, Matthew '10 & Marty '13 Victoria Ledwon, great-aunt of Zach '00 and Josh '02 Carmela Smiley, grandmother of Dan Selko '12
Patricia Carroll, grandmother of Quinn Sweeney '11 Blaszak, SR Faculty William Smith, father of Kevin '87, Michael '89, and father-
Gloria Christensen, grandmother of Sam Dereiko '14 Mary Lucas, sister of Sally Deenihan (Hon.), former SR Principal, in-law Steve Schaller '83
Tom Collins, father of Sean '99 sister-in-law of Brian Deenihan '60 and aunt of Katie Palmer, SR Alex Stanik, cousin of Harry Zelek '11
Elipidia Coronado, grandmother of Javier Solorio II '02, SR Staff Faculty, Brian '88, Patrick '90 and Brendan '91 Deenihan Philomena Stiso, aunt of Michael '91 and Steven '97
James Crotty, father of Dave '77 and grandfather of John '07 Joe Maggio, friend of Brendan Conroy, SR Principal Kristin Taty, daughter of Richard Witt '51
Joseph Daley, grandfather of Kat O'Neill, former SR Staff Sharon Markham, wife of James '59 Hugo Theodule, grandfather of Mike Brackee '11
Jack Dalton, grandfather of John Kelly '14 Joey McDonnell, uncle of Mike Welin '14 Maggie Tindall, grandmother of Jason '07 and Josh '10 DePue
Katie Dillig, sister-in-law of Brendan Conroy, SR Principal Patricia McGeehan, grandmother of Matt Bailey '07 Bernadette Tucker, grandmother of Terry '00
Frank DiNovella, brother of Anthony '51, Dominic '53, father Skip McGuinness Mary Kay Tunney, sister of Bob '79, sister-in-law of Jerry
of John '85 and grandfather of John '13 Barbara McMahon, mother-in-law of Herbie Johnson '76 and Popek '72 and aunt of Brian '08 and Kevin Popek '10, TJ '12 and
Catherine Doyle, grandmother of Katie Curran, SR Faculty grandmother of Pat Connelly '01 and Tom '04 and Mickey '11 Johnson Tony Hayes '14
Rev. John Driscoll, O.S.A. John Meggs, grandfather of Erik Meggs-Ruckes '14 Jeanne Vohasek, mother of Ed '75, Terry '79, Gerald '80, Dan '83
Cyrett Edwards, grandfather of Phillip '12 Dale Mitchell, grandfather of Zach '13 and grandmother of Dan '02
Ray Estand, grandfather of Sean '07 John Morelock, father of John '73 and grandfather of Kevin '01 Ralph Wantroba, father-in-law of Steven Broderick '75 and
Michael Flisk, CPD, father of Brian '11 Maureen Mulryan, aunt of Dylan Dineen '09 grandfather of Daniel '06 and Mitchell '08 Broderick
Chris Gannon, aunt of Brian '80, John '84, Brian '94, and Jim '91 Catherine Nieciak, mother of Joe '85 Kay Windle, friend of Martha Dion, SR Faculty
Bonnett Chase Niemeier, cousin of Mike O'Connor '13 Elvina Zeplin, aunt of Katie Curran, SR Faculty
Joe Godinez, uncle of Michael Prado '12 George Nowak, grandfather of Will Keefer '13 Mary Zielinski, grandmother of Peter Schiable '14
Wyatt Grenno, cousin of the Valkenburg Family Alex Ocampo, father-in-law of Tony Miranda, SR Faculty Doreen Zilligen, wife of Tom '77 and mother of Scott '03
All attempts at accuracy for these lists are made prior to publication. We apologize for any errors in listings or omissions. If there is an error with a listing or an omission, please contact
Josh Blaszak '02, Director of Alumni & Public Relations, in the Office of Institutional Advancement at 773.925.5029 or jblaszak@stritahs.com.

Veritas † Unitas † Caritas 11

 St. Rita of Cascia High School Non-Profit Organization
7740 S. Western Avenue ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED US POSTAGE

Chicago, IL 60620
PAID
Chicago, Illinois
773.925.5029 | www.stritahs.com Permit No. 2955

“Coming Home”
2011 Alumni Banquet

FRIDAY, APRIL 29TH HONORING THE CLASSES OF 1951, 1961, 1971, 1986, and 2001
Cocktails – 6:00 p.m.
Dinner – 7:30 p.m. 2011 MAN OF THE YEAR .JDIBFM
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HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES ATHLETIC AWARDS
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Tom Arundel ’80 Denis Bartz ’71 LOYALTY AWARDS
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Jason Cegielski ’86 Jim Brasher ’71
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Fr. Bernie Danber, O.S.A. ’68 Joe Donzelli ’61
John Foley ’86
Sally Deenihan, Honorary
Greg Pawlowski ’61
Donald Maher ’71
Brian Hamilton ’90
Scott Smolik ’86
Bill Obrochta ’52 John Reuther ’61
PAGE 7
FOR Tony Simmons ’93 Robert Wirtz ’86 HONORARY ALUMNUS
COMPLETE
Bud Sloup ’54 John Zaleski ’86 Ray Fendler
DETAILS