Marian Matters (Summer 2003)

Matters

MARIAN

A NEWSLETTER FOR MARIAN CATHOLIC ALUMNI, PARENTS AND FRIENDS . . . BECAUSE MARIAN CATHOLIC REALLY DOES MATTER SUMMER

2003

Marian Catholic ‘Opens’ to the World U.S. Open uses Marian Catholic for Training, Parking; Marian Volunteers given USGA Exclusive he U.S. Open Championship, the premier national golf event, was hosted at Olympia Fields Country Club June 9 through June 15, and Marian Catholic—just 1.5 miles down the road—saw much of the “action.”

Before the U.S. Open ever began, Marian Catholic hosted 10 training sessions for more than 4000 held by the USGA for its marshals, merchandisers, scorers and security personnel. In addition, PROM Management Group inserviced 1,100 Marian Catholic volunteers to ready them for their roles in assisting with U.S. Open concessions.

Recognized as being able to field outstanding volunteer workers and because of its participation in the Senior Open in 1997, Marian Catholic was granted an “exclusive” with PROM to work 18 site tents on the Olympia Fields Country Club grounds.

“No problem in the parking lot…and everything went extremely well with PROM (concessions),” said Mr. Steve Worthy, Director of U.S. Open Championship Operations.

Worthy praised Marian Catholic for helping things go more smoothly in a very complex and professional operation that dwarfed the Senior Open, saying, “Marian Catholic’s cooperation was an Open high point.”

Organizing more than 2,500 full-time service slots, current and alum parent Cindy Dupczak found the generosity of the Marian Catholic community, saying “The dedication and commitment was outstanding. We had more volunteers than we could place. Once again, Marian Catholic is above and beyond.”

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MCHS volunteers clocked over 28,600 hard-working hours for the US open. Pictured here are Bob McQuade ’99, junior Kevin Marvinac, Jr., sophomore Katie Bailey, senior Melody Gordon, parent Art Korzeniewski, and senior Dave Korzeniewski.

MCHS awaits a final report on PROM’s concession receipts, a percentage of which will come to Marian Catholic.“We wanted every school group that has to scramble for funds to receive the commissions,” Sr. M. Paul said. “The Advancement staff, especially Cindy, along with Mr. Walt Edmisten, MCHS coaches and other direct group organizers were amazing. The detail was incredible: sites, shirts and service!”

Some of the daily volunteers never left the MCHS grounds, however. Every inch of Marian’s grass and concrete on the Joe Orr Road side of campus was used for Club members and corporate parking during the tightly controlled event that hosted upwards of 40,000 people each day. The USGA fee for property rental was restricted to AIM (Athletic Initiative at Marian). Athletic Director, Dave Mattio ‘66 organized the football players, on the very grounds which will benefit.

Arizona alumni chapter draws 50 friends he mid-February wedding of Luciana Zarlengo ’96 (daughter of Barb Ferrari Zarlengo ’65) and the perfect Arizona weather provided the opportunity for a weekend with members of the Marian Catholic community in the Valley of the Sun. Of the 60 known Arizona addresses, 50 responded to Sr. M. Paul's ’67 invitation to get-together— and eventually found their way to the gracious home of Arlene (Ferrari ’68) and Bob Crevier in Scottsdale.

The brainchild of the afternoon reception, parent Mary Moffatt, brought together alumni from each decade, many of whom were unaware of the extent of the Marian connection in the Southwest.

"The response to our 'Arizona alumni chapter' was astounding," Marian Advancement Consultant Mary Moffatt said. "The air was filled with stories, memories, renewed and fresh friendships. It was as if we were in Chicago Heights, Arizona. The necessary organization was minimal because the conversation, laughter and camaraderie came naturally to all the wonderful people in attendance."

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The "penguin" left the desert with this memento from T.J. Burgeson’ and his dad Don.

MARIAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION 2002-2003 Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ’67 President Sr. M. Joan Sorge, O.P. Principal William Hogan Chief Financial Officer Peter Ruhl Vice President for Institutional Advancement John F. Heneghan Vice Principal, Operations Dr. Shirley Morris Vice Principal, Academics Sr. Katherine O’Connor, O.P. Dominican Sisters’ Liaison ADVISORY BOARD 2002-2003 Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ’67 President Sr. M. Joan Sorge, O.P. Principal William Hogan Chief Financial Officer Peter Ruhl Vice President for Institutional Advancement Sr. Katherine O’Connor, O.P. Dominican Sisters’ Liaison Peg Massucci Recording Secretary William Noone Chairperson Joann Lindholm Vice Chairperson Ramzi Bahu, M.D. Genevieve Boesen Christopher Cummings ’76 Jeanne DeRaimo Patrick Dolan ’72 Phyllis Jacob Robert Jones ’79

Peter Kroner Kevin Larson Michael Murphy ’70 Philip Pascarella Sharon Pope Nicholas Zagotta

OFFICE FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Peter Ruhl Vice President for Institutional Advancement Carol Burke Swanson ’81 Director of Development Shannon Reidy ’90 Director of Alumni Relations Michael McQuade ’76 Database Coordinator Kevin Kelly ’80 Public Relations Coordinator Janet Noth Office Manager Peg Massucci Assistant to the President Cindy Dupczak Database Coordinator Diana McDonnell Data Entry/Recruitment Assistant Meghan Noonan ’99 Advancement Office Assistant Mary Moffatt Consultant

Class of 2003 unites, succeeds The Class of 2003 graduation, Marian’s 42nd Commencement, was one of traditional honor, Pomp and Circumstance on May 20 at Tinley Park’s Convention Center.

However, the Class of 2003 will always be remembered as one that learned more than the typical involvement, academic excellence and service of Marian Catholic graduates. The class of 392 was one forced to grow through adversity in the loss of a classmate, events of September 11 and America at war.

The newest members of the 12,500-plus Marian Alumni Association survived and succeeded in so many ways through love and strength in one another.

“This year was markedly different,” Marian President Sr. M. Paul McCaughey ’67 said in her opening address. “Just before returning from Christmas break, we lost a smiling, service-filled woman of the Class of 2003. The (athletic) rock’s premier front face was painted in January’s brutal cold: ‘In loving memory of Kelly Nagle.’ All winter and spring, as activities swirled around it, games Valedictorian John Berger addresses classmates at graduation. and names, numbers, exhortations and slogans were painted on the rock, but the makeshift memorial on the rock’s front went untouched. The face of memory remained.

“It is a snapshot of your character, and something I will always remember. You are each precious, each like Kelly, held in the arms of a God who knows your name.

Yours is the name of the face on the rock. As you move from students to alumni, please know that in the Lord, our rock, you are all ever held in our loving memory.”

While some classmates’ faces will become memories, other friendship bonds have been formed for life. These bonds gave the Class of 2003 the heart to persevere in difficult times.

“Our senior class has undergone many hardships and triumphs over the years,” Senior Class President Ronda Johnson said. “We have suffered through national issues such as September 11 and the war with Iraq. And today we wear green ribbons in remembrance of our beloved classmate and angel in heaven, Kelly Nagle. We have stood together and offered support for everyone.”

Surrounded by sadness, the Class of 2003 also celebrated so many things of which to be proud. The class produced four National Merit Semifinalists (and 11 NMSAT Commended), three Black Achievement Finalists, 63 Illinois State Scholars and 95 National Honor Society members.

Parents, families, faculty and friends helped celebrate culmination on May 20, but also a sendoff to successful futures.

“Every journey has a beginning,” Class valedictorian John Berger reminded.

“These fleeting past four years have been merely a preparation for the start of the next phase in our lives. Although it seems like right now so much is ending, truly we are at the commencement of a new era in our lives. Many of us (Continued on p. 4)

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Christopher Cummings ’76 Chairperson Colleen (O’Neill) Ranieri ’83 Vice Chairperson

Graduates display respect during the National Anthem.

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Marian moves forward with administrative changes Following two years of “Teaching Scholars with a Soul,” under a new administrative model, Marian Catholic High School is planning some administrative changes for the 2003-2004 school year.

After recently splitting the duties of President (CEO) and Principal (COO) to maximize both effective oversight and the day-to-day operation, Marian announced that Sr. M. Joan Sorge, O.P., principal since July 1, 2001, will complete her service on June 30, 2003.

Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ‘67, principal of Marian Catholic High School for nine years and president for the last two years, will assume full duties again in the interim to assure a seamless transition.

A search for a new principal is currently being directed by Sr. Paul.

“We are looking for a highly credentialed Catholic individual with strong secondary experience to continue the initiatives begun in Sr. Joan’s tenure and to open new ones to assure Marian Catholic High School remains the finest venue for scholarship, the arts, athletics and motivated service,” Sr. Paul explained.

Expressing gratitude for Sr. M. Joan’s work at Marian Catholic, Sr. Paul noted the special support given to the faith life of the school, while Marian continued its strong college preparatory tradition, with excellence in National Merit Scholars, Advanced Placement Scholars and the top average scores for standardized testing in Chicago’s Southland.

“It has been a short journey, but a good journey for me,” Sr. M. Joan said. She called Marian “blessed to have such dedicated and committed people ministering here.”

Entering his 16th year at Marian (14 as Director of Student Activities), John Kozojed will function as a Vice Principal on the administrative team for 2003-04. As Vice Principal of Student Activities, Kozojed will concentrate in areas of student life and leadership, extra-curriculars and special events. A graduate of Loyola University with a Masters from St. Xavier University, Kozojed will join Vice Principal of Academics Dr. Shirley Morris and Vice Principal of Operations Jack Heneghan.

Marian plans additional administrative changes. Following 13 years as Women’s Athletic Director, Jody Haaker announced her retirement from the position. The roles of Associate Athletic Directors will be filled

by Marian graduates Shannon Reidy ’90 and Kevin Kelly ’80, who will work with Athletic Director Dave Mattio ’66, Marian’s AD since 1975.

“Jody Haaker was an integral part of the development of the women's athletic program at Marian Catholic High School during her tenure as the Women's Athletic Director,” Mattio said of Haaker, who will remain at Marian as a physical education teacher and tennis coach. “She guided many of our women's programs from infancy to full-scale, multi-level and successful programs. Her smile, easy-going demeanor, and direction have become trademarks of the women's athletic program. She has established an excellent

Arizona alumni chapter draws 50 friends Among the items given away as mementos were plastic Homecoming cups and alumni memo boards that the participants good-naturedly accepted— along with the task to review MCHS written communication pieces, Marian's primary way of keeping in touch with its constituents living at a distance.

The Arizona gathering serves as a model for further MCHS outreach, including one being led by Ohio resident Sue Perram ’89 tentatively planned for next summer.

"There was so much I failed to communicate to the folks in Arizona about the growth of MCHS and my gratitude for their role in it, but we simply had fun anyway,” Sr. Paul said. “Much gratitude to our hosts and to those who attended from as far as two hours away.”

legacy for future Marian Catholic athletic administrations to follow.”

Reidy, who has served roles in Advancement, Alumni Relations and Recruitment, has worked as Marian’s women’s varsity basketball coach for the last five years. In compiling a 105-43 record, she guided the Spartans to back-to-back Class AA Elite Eight appearances, including second place in the state in 2001-02. Reidy, a graduate and former basketball standout at Lake Forest College, returned to Marian after a brief career in banking. Reidy will continue to work in Recruitment and fill special roles in the Office for Institutional Advancement.

Kelly, who served as Executive Sports Editor at Star Newspapers for 15 years after earning Journalism and Education degrees at Marquette University, will be in his fifth year at Marian. He has worked as an assistant coach on both the men’s and women’s basketball staffs, and has helped guide the Marian softball program to its most successful four-year stint in history. Kelly has coached and officiated sports in the South Suburbs for more than 25 years. He will continue to serve as a Journalism teacher and coordinate Marian’s web site.

Additionally, business teacher Don Pirkle will take on greater responsibilities as Assistant Dean of Men, working with longtime Dean Mike Goldrick. Pirkle, a graduate of Illinois Institute of Technology, has been at Marian for 14 years and has served on the Marian baseball staff for 10 years, including five years as varsity head coach.

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INCLUDED AMONG THE ATTENDEES: John Anzelmo ’67 Thomas Atwater ’71 Mr. Donald Burgeson Thomas Burgeson ’98 Carla Cifelli Carter ’67 Rose M. Larsen Chicoine ’76 Thomas Cifelli ’75 Sarah Ruhl Cline ’87 Robert and Arlene (Ferrari) ’68 Crevier Chris Crevier ’01 Katie Crevier ’95 Nicole Crevier ’97 Mr. & Mrs. Van DiCarlo Amy Ferrari ’93 Mr. & Mrs. Art Ferrari Art Ferrari ’75 John Ferrari ’63 Cheryl Cole Fisher ’81 Maria Collins Holzman ’77 Mr. & Mrs. Bart Hoolehan, Sr. Bart Hoolehan ’94 Rita Morton Koenig ’82 Thomas Kuzma ’71 Marisa Martin ’69 Luciana Zarlengo Moran ‘96 Mr. Robert Murphy

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A few of the Scottsdale reunion attendees. The participants wished to remind "those back home" that the photo was taken in February on a day when it was 8 degrees in Chicago.

Robert Murphy ’99 Marybeth Oganovich-Davis ’83 Paula Pruett ’69 Laura Szkutak Singer ’86 Patricia Morris Slattery ’81 Cecelia Muggli Stratton ‘73 Sharon Verges ’69 Barbara Ferrari Zarlengo ’65 Suzanna Zarlengo ’97

M A R I A N

C A T H O L I C

Class of 2003 unites, succeeds

ALUMNI

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are eager to leave some things behind. Getting up at the break of dawn, late nights with homework, and the treacherous parking lot will not be missed. Yet, there are many lessons we have learned at Marian that we should never forget.”

Indeed, graduation represents a beginning, as Marian will send to nearly 100 colleges a collection of this class who earned more than $5.1 million in scholarships.

“Marian Catholic High School graduates of 2003, ‘Scholars with a Soul,’ the hearts of all of us gathered here— parents, relatives, teachers and staff— are filled with pride and joy as we celebrate you and your graduation,” Marian Principal Sr. M. Joan Sorge, O.P. said. “It’s the ending of your four-year journey through high school, but only the beginning of the adult years of your life.

“I pray that you will never forget your time together here at Marian. May it be forever a reference point in your lives. May this time together, the teachers, the teachings, the memory of each other be with you always, even to the end of the world. Go now, and ‘Journey in the Light.’ ” Survivors, achievers, scholars and friends— The Class of 2003 exemplified all.

“Everyone in this room tonight has great expectations for us,” Berger concluded. “Yet, what is most important is what we expect from ourselves. We should expect that no matter what we do with our lives, we will always stay true to God and the President Sr. M. Paul presents a diploma to Student Council talents and gifts with which we President Katie Calhoun. have been blessed. And we should know that by holding close to our hearts the lessons we have learned at Marian, we can accomplish anything.

Thank you.”

A S S O C I A T I O N

Chair greets from Kuwait Often addressing alumni on these pages as he serves as Chairperson of the Marian Catholic Alumni Association, Chris Cummings ’76 is taking on a more important role in serving our country as a military engineer overseas.

Cummings and his Army 416th Engineer Command Kevin & Chris on the roof: This is us on top of the headquarters building. You can see have been living at Camp some of the camp (it's a dusty, hot place) Arifjan in northern Kuwait. and the refinery at Umm Qasr in the He hopes to return to background. The cables in the background are for the television tower, so you can share his stories and imagine how tall it is. The facilities at the experiences with the Marian EPW camp are equal to those of our troops. family this summer. For now, however, Marian Matters will share some of Cummings’ email excerpts and comments printed in a feature in The Daily Southtown.

“I am very lucky compared with the troops in Iraq. It’s certainly not home, but I have a tent over my head and a shower. Give my best to everyone. Please give everyone my regards and thank them for their prayers and kind words.”

“I feel safe, but I can’t let my guard down. It’s not like I’m walking around Homewood.”

“Engineers are usually the first in to set up, then last out after cleaning up. We don’t have any information concerning when we are leaving. We had a dust storm a few weeks ago. The pictures were taken on successive days in the area behind my office. The other person in the photograph is Kevin Kney. He’s the Staff Judge Advocate for our unit (my senior officer). When the dust flies here, it makes you wish for a good old-fashioned midwestern snowstorm.”

“Compared to people in Iraq, this is heaven. It’s a little bit like ‘Groundhog Day,’ the movie. I get out of bed and go to work at 8 a.m., and I’m back in bed at 10 p.m. There isn’t a whole lot to do here except work.”

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

THE 13TH ANNUAL MARIAN CATHOLIC ENDOWMENT GOLF CLASSIC will be held on Monday, Aug. 18, 2003 at Flossmoor and Idlewild Country Clubs.

Information about golf or sponsorships may be obtained by calling Janet Noth at 708-755-6579.

“This is at the fuel point (Army version of a gas station) just south of the border. The woman in the middle is CPT Helen Bowman, a legal service officer with the British Army. She was visiting Arifjan (where I am assigned) and rode along with us back to Umm Qasr where she is permanently stationed.

We lawyers have to look out for each other. We had some nice conversations before the ride and when we arrived, but the humvee is too loud to hear anyone else talk when you're on the open highway. Person on the left is Kevin Kney, my senior officer. He is an attorney in Rockford.”

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NCAA Party AIMS to grow Expectations took on quite a varied range for the committee of the first “Marian Madness” NCAA Party held on the night of the men’s championship game, April 7. Marian coaches and committee members sold more than 130 tickets to draw a nice crowd to the school’s East Gym for the first event.

The turnout exceeded expectations for some; likely didn’t live up to them for others. In essence, it was much like the championship game itself.

Underdog Syracuse appeared to be running away with the contest at some points. But Kansas put on a furious rally for what turned out to be a thrilling Syracuse victory in the end.

Marian Madness was much the same way. In the end, the event provided excitement, enjoyment and anticipation for future events.

“The energy and excitement that surrounded the planning of Marian Madness 2003 continued through the event itself,” Director of Development Carol Swanson ’81 said. “The evening definitely surpassed our expectations for a first time event. The feedback from alums and others who attended the evening event has been so positive. There was plenty of Aurelio’s Pizza, mostaccioli, beef sandwiches, snacks and beverages!

“Everyone loved the 15’ x 15’ clear projectors on the white east gym wall. We are already looking forward to hosting Marian Madness 2004 on Monday, April 5. If you weren’t able to join us this year, please mark your calendar to do so next year, and be sure to buy a raffle ticket!”

Designed as an event to benefit AIM (Athletic Initiative at Marian) March Madness proved to offer something for everybody.

A combination of delicious food and drink, big-screen televisions for quality viewing and plenty of friendship and camaraderie provided enjoyment. Contests occurred in the West Gym and Marian coaches staffed the beverage tables. For those with little knowledge of basketball, games of chance increased interest in the contest in New Orleans.

“The Alumni Association is proud to add Marian Madness to the list of events we sponsor,” explained Colleen O’Neill Ranieri ’83,

Marian coaches Jerry Verde ’95, Tim Swanson ’86 and Kurt Weigt serve up a good time at the first Marian Madness NCAA Party.

vice chairperson of the Alumni Association. “We are pleased that we have this opportunity to help benefit the AIM Project. We'd like to thank the planning committee and all the volunteers for helping to make this first year a successful one. We look forward to Marian Madness 2004.”

The evening culminated in awarding prizes to winners of silent raffles. In all, the event proved to be a success and one that left attendees looking forward to Marian Madness in the future.

Led by Carol Swanson ’81 and Shannon Reidy ’90 in Marian’s Office for Institutional Advancement, the Madness committee of John Benish ’84, Jim Dee ’80, Dave Klupchak ’78, Paul Moffatt ’97, Colleen O´Neill Ranieri ’83, Mike Savage ’72, Tim Swanson ’86, Nancy Lynch Virene ’81, Kevin Welsh ’77 and Ed Ziltz ’80 promises to bring more fun to the event in the future.

This will also target greater benefits to AIM, the initiative that targets continued development of Marian’s athletic facilities on the west portion of campus, as well as renovation for the current stadium. More information about AIM may be obtained by calling Marian’s Office for Institutional Advancement at 708-755-6579.

ALUMNI RESPOND, PLAN Class of 1998 reflects on MCHS experience as classes plan reunions and school readies for 45th Anniversary.

A survey mailed to the Class of 1998 served as a pre-reunion update and as a measure of Marian Catholic High School’s performance. “Our goal was to see how Marian Catholic prepared young alums for college and career,” noted Shannon Reidy ’90, who helped prepare the survey. “The responses by mail and online were excellent as alums took time to reflect on their Marian Catholic experience.”

Writing—particularly research-based papers—was most frequently mentioned as outstanding MCHS preparation.

A January 2003 survey mailed to the Class of 2002 continued to validate that strength. Grads took special care to note core Christian values, overall excellence of academic preparation, time management and enduring friendships. The responses will be studied (held in confidence unless permission is given to do otherwise) as a basis for long-range curriculum and program planning.

While English and Foreign Language classes gathered nearly universal praise, other grads noted their pleasure at the increased lab and technology opportunities now available at Marian. In the highest complement of all, grads repeatedly expressed the wish that their children could have the “Marian experience.”

Class of 1968 Aug. 16 – Reunion Celebration Dinner at Idlewild Country Club at 6 p.m.

Class of 1973 Oct. 3 - Homecoming Gathering at Marian and Reunion Dinner Celebration on Oct. 4 at Scrementi’s Contempo Lounge at 7 p.m.

Class of 1978 Oct. 3 - Homecoming Gathering at Marian and Reunion Celebration on Oct. 4 at Morgan’s at 7:30 p.m.

Class of 1983 Aug. 16 – Reunion Celebration Dinner at Glenwood Oaks Restaurant at 6:30 p.m.

Class of 1993 Oct. 3 - Homecoming Gathering at Marian and Reunion Celebration on Oct. 4 (location TBD) Class of 1998 Oct. 3 - Homecoming Gathering at Marian and Reunion Celebration on Oct. 4 at Morgan’s at 8:00 p.m.

MASS TO CELEBRATE 45TH YEAR AT HOMECOMING Monsignor Kenneth Velo will celebrate Mass for the Marian Catholic community at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2003, in the Croarkin Theatre to mark the 45th Anniversary of MCHS’ opening. Families of grads and current students are cordially invited to join Homecoming alumni in a Eucharist that is truly a “thanks” for all the good God has done for the Marian Catholic community since the fall of 1958 when the “pioneer” teachers and students opened the doors of Marian Catholic.

THE MCHS REUNION SCHEDULE Class of 1963 Oct. 3 - Homecoming Gathering at Marian and dinner on Oct. 4 at Mr. Benny’s at 6 p.m.

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Bimm, benefactors thanked at Command Performance II

GINNY BOESEN Start of Term: 2003 Children: Patrick ’01, Annie ’03, Joe ’05, Tim ’07 Community Involvement: In my position as the Executive Director of the South Metropolitan Regional Higher Education Consortium, I work closely with all of the colleges and universities in the Chicago Southland region. I work with businesses, community organizations and schools interested in partnering to expand educational opportunities in our area.

I was a founding member of the CreteMonee Business Education Partnership, am on the board of the South Metropolitan Regional Research Institute and am involved with the Marian Hockey Program.

Hobbies: “I love to travel and watch my kids' sporting activities. I have just started running, but it is too early to call it a hobby!”

Vision for MCHS future: “Education has evolved so much in the last 30 years. The acquisition of knowledge has supplanted rote learning. The Internet has transformed education. The advancing technology is bringing exciting and significant changes to teaching and learning. It is vital to Marian's success that it continues to keep pace with these changes.”

“At the same time, there has been so much research done about how people learn and how the brain functions. Transforming that research into practical teaching and learning methodologies is a big challenge for the future.

I think Marian's greatest mission is to create a strong academic curriculum in combination with a program emphasizing strong moral and religious values. In short, to continue to create ‘Scholars with a Soul.’ ”

By James Moore The greatest compliment one can give another human being is to just say “thank you.”

We… that is, everybody in the Marian family… thank the faculty, the administrative staff and all those who supported Command Performance II. Once again, this was a gesture of support for the Fine Arts Department of our school and, in particular, to celebrate a quarter of a century of dedicated, loyal and unbroken service by Mr. Greg Bimm, the Director of Bands at Marian Catholic High School.

Bimm’s longtime dedication is fully appreciated by the Marian family. Further, his longtime dedication to the industry is appreciated by teachers and educators at the national level, from major universities, educational institutions and, in general, the field of fine arts.

The influence of the band alumni has been consistent and loyal, because through Bimm’s tenure and their experience with him in their The Band’s No. 1 friend, Jim Moore, and family four years under his supervision and guidance, spend a moment with Marian Principal Sr. M. they have learned more than beautiful, creative Joan after Command Performance II. musical art form.

Anyone who has studied Greg Bimm’s credentials and his years of experience at Marian, as an educator and a guidance counselor, has to be aware that he has developed youth where they can find a journey that has taken them to almost every corner of the world. He has literally touched the lives of thousands of free spirits and musically dedicated individuals.

In this journey, he and the Marian program have always distinguished themselves as a major figure in the international and national wind band movement for more than 25 years.

Bimm is constantly devoted to his family as a loving husband, father and educator.

Greg Bimm is a caring and nurturing individual, which is evidenced to the students by the way he supports his own family, his partner and his children in their pursuit of education at Marian and beyond.

As to Bimm’s many professional roles, he is of all a consummate educator. He is a gifted conductor, a composer and an arranger. He is also an academic, a scholar and a valued colleague to many within the profession of educating and motivating young adults in their skills and in their musical fine arts development.

His year-round dedication to this program is best observed through Bimm’s life. He is a person who always has a passion of purpose for everything he does. His first task as a leader is always to help define reality. He generates a sustained trust in values, work achievement and performances. He has the ability and spiritual challenge to manifest a definite bias for action. He is committed to certain action and has the capacity to convert purpose and vision into that action.

I seriously doubt if there has been a more devoted, father, husband, family man, or more steadfast, loyal and fervent educator than Mr. Greg Bimm.

It’s all part of the “Command Performance” agenda, but it’s a bigger part of the world of More than 25 years into dedicated music education, fine arts and the spiritual mentoring at Marian, Director Greg Bimm development as envisioned by the Marian conducts the band at Command Performance II. Catholic High School spiritual philosophy.

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Sr. M. Alberta reflects on growing Marian shower special graces upon as Joliet Catholic—our arch rival—and the Spartans took the field. Such a din as you never heard before arose from the west bleachers in the last few tense seconds as the Spartans managed to score and win the game! And a sense of pride, joy and challenge well-met, filled the grinning faces of the team and coach Dave Mattio ’66 and Marian alum, as they became aware of their first-ever victory over Joliet Catholic.

Another challenge students met like so many more in extracurricular sports, fine arts and academic contests.

One more challenge that is not only a memory but a current reality. When I arrived at Marian, band members were declining.

Something had to be done to challenge students to be involved with band. As I interviewed for a new director, a bright young man, accompanied by his professor, arrived for his interview. His credentials seemed too good to be true. There are many facets of a person that an administrator looks at before hiring. Each seemed to be positive in his case. But, he was young and looked even younger! Would he be a “kid” with the “kids” or would he be a leader? Would parents who were older accept him as a leader of the band program?

A decision needed to be made quickly, because his professor said other schools were looking at him. He accepted the position, and I soon learned that Greg Bimm was, and still is not only a leader, but a challenger of the utmost for the Marian students and himself. Marian band students have not only met the challenge over and over again on their way to state and national band awards, but many have followed his example in personal goals as well as musical ones. This same challenge is given and taken by the Marian teaching staff year after year as it challenges itself to be teachers of truth, knowledge and example to young impressionable youth.

Marian Mothers Club has been a nurturing element throughout the years. They generated unity through such activities as presenting the Silver Tea, hosting the Open House, and offering a special Luncheon and Fashion Show. When student pictured ID’s came into being, they expanded their support to the in-school activity of clicking cameras and producing laminated ID’s for the entire student body. I remember that first day of fear and laughing as they stared at each small and large body before them!

We all know that we either grow or decline; few can hover the middle of the road and remain viable. So it was with Development programs in private schools during the 70’s and 80’s. Schools were beginning to lay foundations to secure and strengthen their future in a new century. All signs at Marian pointed to the fact that we were ready to take the step. A Development Director was hired.

The Alumni were receiving periodic mailings. They were young, but now were becoming of age— which meant they were settling into jobs and careers and should be able to help us finance the Catholic education of the next generation. Many parents and friends now were freed from college education of their children and, we hoped, would be interested in the Catholic education of their grandchildren at Marian. It was time to challenge them all. Our First Annual Fund Drive in 1982-83 lists seven alums as givers among the long list of parents, grandparents and friends of Marian. Now, 20 years later, the latest list of wonderful supporters is not only much longer, but it contains 1,100 alums. Another challenge taken!

Each time I hear the word Marian, it brings back countless memories. Once you have been affiliated with Marian Catholic, as a student, teacher, staff member, parent or friend, you are forever under the spell of the spirit that is Marian.

The Marian students were always ready for a challenge! The more they were challenged academically, the better they became. Tackling any new Honors or Advanced Placement course; raising test scores each year and always ranking higher than the state averages; winning major scholarships and being accepted at major colleges and universities from coast to coast— living Marian academics!

Continuing to balance school academics, social activities, sports and extracurricular activities, numerous topics needed to be studied and policies considered. Sufficient courses for various ability levels; decisions on the addition of grade weighting to provide a truer GPA; school policies to meet the needs of individual students as well as the total school population required careful planning.

Faculty guidelines dealing with the everyday business of education, yet preserving individualism, needed frequent review.

To these ends, an Administrative Council consisting of Sr. Mary Joseph, Assistant Principal; Sr. Mary John, Treasurer; Jack Heneghan, Development Director; Susan Biemeret, Director of Guidance and College planning; Michael Goldrick and Ann Waller, Deans of boys and girls respectively and our A+ shorthand note-taker, Sr. Kathryn Edward, was set up. They began meeting weekly with the principal to discuss such items and form policy books as guidelines.

There were always students who took on the challenge of extracurricular activities that broadened their academic, personal, physical, social and spiritual growth and development. Seasonal activities, from football with its spirited cheerleaders to service activities in local hospitals, nursing homes, and homes for students with special needs, offered an ever changing and challenging way for students to be involved.

One such challenge the students met with gusto will always be a memory for me. Some student discovered that Marian could win a van IF they could send the most 3 X 5 cards to a radio station with a pre-worded message on each one. Days and days of small and large groups of students— laughing and writing— before and after school as well as during study periods, produced boxes and boxes of small neatly, and not so neatly written messages. When the deadline arrived and these boxes were loaded and delivered to the radio station, there was no need to count the individual papers from the Chicago area schools.

The sheer number of BOXES from Marian was enough proof to declare Marian the winner on the spot! Thus, the school’s first van for school use came into being and the spirit of Marian was evident to everyone.

Another extracurricular event that I remember well was of a united school family that filled the Bloom stadium to overflowing all around the water-soaked and muddy football field in 1976.

The rain was spilling from the heavens and the Good Lord Himself must have had a difficult time knowing which Catholic team to

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Softball, Taylor's state title highlight spring sports For just the second time in school history, a Marian Catholic athlete grabbed gold when sophomore Casey Taylor won the state championship in the triple jump in the IHSA Class AA Girls Track and Field meet. Taylor jumped 39 feet, one-half inch to win the title and also captured fourth place in the long jump. Senior Mary Kate Gergel was 30th in the 3,200-meter run and sophomore Becca Gustafson was a state qualifier in the 100-meter and 300-meter hurdles.

Taylor joins wrestling state champion Mickey Griffin ’93 as the Spartans' lone individual state champions.

The Marian women's softball team is seeking the "hat trick" for women's sports in the 2002-03 school year.

Following Class AA state tournament appearances in women's volleyball and women's basketball, the softball team targeted the same goal with a recordsetting pace.

The Spartans, consistently ranked in Chicagoland's Top 10 by the Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times, captured their third consecutive East Suburban Catholic Conference championship, posted a stingy 25 shutouts, ran off a string of 72 consecutive scoreless innings and won

the school's seventh IHSA regional title in softball. Marian compiled a schoolrecord 32-6 mark.

Marian also won its fourth straight ESCC title on the sophomore level as the entire program combined for a record 88-10.

“The dedication and leadership of our student-athletes on these three teams has re-established Marian Catholic athletics among the very best in Illinois," explained Kevin Kelly ’80, an assistant coach for both women's basketball and softball. "The legacy of the current crop of upperclassmen has helped bring tremendous recognition to Marian throughout the community and has generated a brilliant level of excitement among Marian fans and alumni.

"The Class of 2003 for women's athletics has established a lofty standard for future Spartans, not only through athletic accomplishments, but via reward with college scholarships, examples of excellence in the classroom and as class acts who will become sound future leaders."

In men's tennis, state qualifiers included seniors Colin Higgins, Bob McDonald, Bob Krause and junior Evan

Oklahoma Then and Now

Oklahoma 2003: Lindsey Vrab and Steve Tortorello entertain during the 2003 version of Marian’s Spring Musical, “Oklahoma.”

Oklahoma 1981: John Hausaul ’82 and Janet Warfield ’81, portray Curly & Laurey

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Hickey. Men's track state qualifiers included seniors Jason Tolliver in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles (third place) and 110 high hurdles, and Anthony Hyman in the high jump.

Rounding out the winter season, the women's basketball team advanced to its second straight Elite Eight before falling to eventual state champion Naperville Central in the Class AA quarterfinals. Marian compiled a 60-6 two-year record, including the 100th career win for head coach Shannon Reidy ’90 against St. Louis St. Joseph.

Seniors Nicole Barker and Missy Mitidiero advanced to the IHSA State 3Point Shootout.

In men's basketball, sophomore Ryan Owens advanced to the State 3Point Shootout and senior Anthony Hyman participated in the state Slam Dunk Competition.

The wrestling squad qualified a record four individuals for state, including a fifth-place state finisher in junior Collin McKillip at 145 pounds.

Others making the state grade were senior Marquis Pittman (140 pounds) and juniors Steve Scrementi (119) and Brad Wisowaty (171).

M E M O R I A L S 1/16/03 through 5/15/03 Mary Achille Lucy Anastasia Gordon Andersen Dervitt Anderson Margaret Anderson Edith Angellotti Marie Arcaris Clarence Baker Joseph Banach Margaret Batterman Earl Beall Francis Bergin Joan Bianconi Robert Biolchin Victoria Boguslawski Colonel William Boyd Betty Braaten Bernice Brack Catherine Brady Rita Broadhurst John Broniewicz Anna Bronka Mary Kay Lustig Buckley ’71 Donald Burke Alexander Buterlas Brian Cahill ’94 Catherine Cahill Lena Calderone Nick J. Calderone Joseph Calvi Monica Camp-Allen Aurora Cantu Jose Carral Irene Casey Christine Cash James H. Casper Virginia Lee Cialkowski George Clancey Joseph J. Coatar Ann Compagnoni Nancy Coughlin Alan Crawford Adriana Cupuldo Henry Czuba Robert Dale Henry Everett Dalton Eleanor DeFabes George Depeder Frances Derk Eric DeWit Paul Dravillas Ruth Dzurison Jean Emmeloth Charlotte Fajman Jeanne Ferraro

Marge Ferro Eugene Figliulo Edna Finerty Phyllis Finnell Roy Fitzpatrick Thomas Flynn T. J. Foltd Jeanne Foody Norah Foody Harry M. Fuller Dorothy "Dede" Marshall Garrity

June Gentry Lillian Gnaster Marcella M. Gonzales Joseph J. Grady Joseph Granno Waymeth Grant Anthony Graziano James F. Greco Cruz Gutierrez Robert Hannon James Hein Bernard Joseph Hohner Frances Hollandsworth Robert & Gloria Hosna Mark Huels Robert Huizenga Michael Jacobucci Vic Janich Joan Jenniches Patricia Jensen Roman Jerchaj Elaine Smolka Jez Patricia Johnson Ralph Johnson Elmer Joyce, Sr. Johann Joyce Robert Kane ’75 Ted Karwoski Ted Kazmierczak Ann K. Keating Nena Jo Keefner George Kelly Margaret "Peg" Kelly Thomas Kelly Romana Kemp Fred Kern Norbert Knight Gene Knoerzer LuElla Kolosh Harry Kost Teresa Krutz Raymond Kurry Josephine La Susa Sheldon Lake

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Stella Laurie Mr. Lavelle Mother of Mary Leary Bonnie Lee John L. Leli Mary Lou Liva Frank Logullo Vivian LoPinto J.G. Lumpkin Lila Mantas Mary F. Marinucci John Mascho Michael Mayer George J. McArdle, Sr. Esther McCann George McDonald Genevieve McLaughlin Jack McLaughlin James McMaster Eunice McPherson Douglas Miller John Miller ’83 Shirley Mora Brother Phillip Morgan, FSC Edward Morrison, Sr. Hubert Mosley Andrew Mrozek Edward Muehlenbein Catherine Mulvihill Alvera Munoz Kelly Nagle ’03 Jack Neilly Joyce Nelson Phyllis Newell Joseph Novelli Eugene Nykaza Donald O'Connor Mary O'Sullivan Ben Onorato Angelo Passavanti Dianne Passavanti Martha Paul Donna Petrovich Baby Luca Picciolini Mary Beth Invergo Poss ’72 Lorraine Price Uncle of Jerry Price Marie Prinzhorn Stella Pulec Arthur Ranieri Bernice Recupito Kathy Reid Claire Richardson Laura Riley

Elizabeth Rohr Rosemary Rossetto Katherine Ryan Edward Rybarczyk Harold M. Ryley, III Hugh Saracino Frances Sauter Guido Scartozzi Cindy Schloss Gerald D. Schmitz Baby Robert Schrader Henry Scivinsky Anna Sejda Elbert Shears Melissa Siegert Dorothy Sjogren Walter J. Sluzas, Jr. Elizabeth Ann Smith William H. Smith, Sr. Thomas Strasser Charles Strubb Madelyn Surko John J. Talamonti Frances Tansey Leroy Taylor Josephine Teresko Betty Thompson John Timm Rita Towle Grace Tucker Kathy Underwood E. Charles Upton Robert Vanderaa Sylvia Varallo John Velchek Gerald C. Vellender, Sr. Joseph J. Vieha Jean Ann Wagner Ted Wahlberg James Wald James Walsh Kenneth Walz Kenneth Whitfield James Williams Michael Williams Leonard Wisowaty Ann Wydra Susan Young Rosemary Zaino Evelyn Zayachek Rose Zerante Benedict Tibor Zsuppon

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Timothy O'Hea ’63 and his wife Mary Ann ’62 were blessed this past spring with another grandchild. That makes 13 grandchildren in all and contrary to what superstitious people think they feel like the luckiest two people in the world.

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Faith, both books published in 2003.

She received the Stellar Achievement Award and The North Star Award from MAW. Lentz has written two books for children on Santa and two other nonfiction books for adults. She is presently researching publishers. She lives in Naperville with her husband, Ron, and their puppies Baci and Poscha.

Jack Michael Purser, son of Susan Purser ’83.

Susan Whitman Lyrla ’73 and husband Keith ’73 write from Palm Desert saying they've had a blessed life. Who knew they would really be "partners" for life when they posed for the Mariner (page 5, 1973)! They have had 27 years of marriage and raised a son and daughter, who are 25 and 23, both college graduates and successfully on their own.

Sally (Friedel) Grimes ’63, founder of the Grimes Reading Institute (GRI) in Rockport, MA has recently been contracted by the Massachusetts Department of Education to modify and localize curriculum for use in Massachusetts.

Rose Gundlach Siemsen ’78 has moved to Clinton, Ill. with her family, husband Greg, and sons, Greg, Jr., Eric and Andy.

She is working in Bloomington as a respiratory therapist and looks forward to participating on the Reunion Committee for her class.

Mary Tim Kelly Crowley ’63 lives in Ballineen, County Cork Ireland with husband John Patrick, a dairy farmer, and their family of seven; Barry 25, Sean 24, Ann 22, Joseph 20, Mary 18, Martin 16 and Brigid 13. Mary Tim attended Marycrest in Davenport, Iowa and Sion Hill, Dublin, Ireland and received a Montessori diploma in 1967. Busy now as mother and homemaker, active in Pro-life, Macra na feirme, GAA, Return to Education, Chartres march, she was previously a Montessori Directress.

In May 2002, Mary Jo (Kivland) King ’79 and husband Al welcomed their second daughter, Malaya Jianggui King, adopted from China. Malaya is now 11/2 years old and her older sister Ariana Meidan, also adopted from China, is 4 years old. Mary Jo is currently a stay-athome mom, enjoying her time raising her girls!

Susan (Zegler) Borglund ’64 was awarded her Ph.D. in Nursing from Barry University, Miami Shores, Fla. in December 2002.

Julienne (Mascitti) Lentz ’73 is a writer, public speaker, wish granter and Mrs. Claus for the Make-A-Wish Foundation (MAW) and children's hospitals. She has recently had stories published in Chicken Soup for the NASCAR Soul and Living by

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Lisa Samuiloff Chandler ’82 writes she and husband of 17 years Frank are happy and healthy, busy raising son Tim, 12, and daughter Stephanie, 7, outside of Madison Wis., where Frank is a city police officer.

Mary (O'Connell) Smith ’83 and husband Michael welcomed the birth of their first child, Hannah Elizabeth, born on Dec. 30, 2002.

Michael Zinsky ’83 and wife Pam adopted their first child in September 2002. Their son was born on Aug. 30, 1999 in a small village in northeast China.

Susan (Purser) Utterback ’83 and husband Michael are proud to announce the birth of their first child, Jack Michael, on Nov. 13, 2002. Jack weighed 7 pounds, 81/2 ounces and was 211/2 inches long. Susan is a graphic designer with her own business and Michael works in Community Development at LaSalle Bank in Chicago. They recently built a house in Chesterton, Ind. and celebrated their 12th wedding anniversary.

Annmarie (Mackey) Petrie ’83 recently married Steven Petrie and they have moved to Vermont with her two daughters, Angelique 14 and Alicia 10.

Luke R. Daw Jr. ’84 and his wife Jodi celebrated the birth of their first child, Mary Kathryn, born Nov. 23, 2002.

Romanus Hagemann ’84 updates from Germany where he returned following his senior year at Marian as a foreign exchange student to continue his studies. He is now a CEO at Sovital Life & Nutri-Science GmbH. Romanus still remembers Mr. Jablonski and the wonderful time he had portraying Harry Beaton in the musical "Brigadoon."

Darren Masier ’85 and wife Terri stay fit as triathletes and marathoners. Terri owns her own company specializing in mortgage and real estate.

Becki Steinkamp-Graeber ’70 has recently retired from Telcordia Technologies after 30-plus years in the telecommunications Industry and will moving to Florida.

Caryn (Gacek) Mastrolilli ’72 and her husband Tony adopted 21-month old Kimberly Mei from China on Jan. 14, 2003. Kimberly joins brothers Nick (8) and Vinny (6).

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John Waller ’85 and his wife Genevieve welcomed their daughter Vivian Kathleen on April 11, 2003. Brother Matthew is 2 years old.

Jay Daniel Francis Casey, son of Daniel Casey ’87.

Cathy (Gasbarro) Shoemaker ’82 and husband James announce the birth of their first child, Joseph Shoemaker, born on Jan. 23, 2003. He weighed 8 pounds and was 20 inches long.

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Christina (Silhavy) McBride ’86 and her husband Terry welcomed their first baby, John Fitzpatrick McBride, born on Oct. 17, 2002.

Maria (Brezek) Owczarzak ’86 and her husband Mark welcomed their third daughter, Julia, on Dec. 22, 2002. She weighed 9 pounds, 10 ounces and was

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22 inches long. Julia joins her older sisters, Emma, who is 5 and Donna, who is 4.

Christina (Carlsson) LeCocq ’86 and her husband Daniel celebrated the birth of their first child on Dec. 6, 2002. Brian Nicholas was 9 pounds, 2 ounces and was 21 inches long. . . a perfect Christmas miracle!

Mary Ruane Palm ’87 and her husband Mike recently celebrated both daughter Madeline's first birthday and the awarding of Mike's Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Northern Illinois University.

Mike is a research scientist at Abbott Labs. They reside in Grayslake, Ill.

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Elizabeth (Kudra) Orlick ’87 and her husband Mark celebrated the birth of their first child, Cole Ethan, born on Dec. 18, 2002.

Annemarie (Tantillo) Hon ’88 and her husband Jason welcomed their first child, Carli Anne on Feb. 7, 2003.

Formerly a professional Graphic Artist, Annemarie is now a "stay-at-home" mom and loving every minute with her little "miracle."

Rhonda (Bolda) Divine ’88 is currently working part-time as a radiologic technologist in the OR Department at St. Anthony's Hospital in Crown Point, where she also lives. Rhonda and her husband Michael, have a 2-year old daughter, Alivia Morgan, and are expecting again this September.

Tim O'Hea ’88 and wife Dawn welcomed the birth of their second daughter on March 31, 2003. Ava Josephine was 6 pounds, 14 ounces and 201/2 inches long. Big sister Emma can hardly wait to get her hands on her little sister.

John and Kari (Guagenti) O’Connor ’89 with children Rian, Shae and Gianna.

Walter Ruane ’87 married Cheryl Mrozek of Chicago in April, 2002.

Alumni in the wedding party included Sean O'Brien ’87 and Michael Wolfsmith ’87. The couple reside in Greenwich, Conn., where Walt works for General Electric.

Lisa (Yock) Denty ’87 and husband Rob announced the birth of their daughter, Madeline Adelle, born on Nov. 11, 2002. She weighed 7 pounds and was 191/2 inches long.

Tim Rutkowski ’87 and his wife Lisa have two children, Andy 4 and Bethany 1.

Tim is a veterinarian with his own practice outside of Philadelphia. Tim’s proud parents Ed & Carole sent updates; his brother did too!

Franco D'Onofrio ’87 returned to South Africa following graduation and received a degree in Political Science and International Relations, but decided to pursue a different career direction.

He lives in South Africa and is a partner in a private business, a candy manufacturing company.

Daniel Casey ’87 and wife Lisa are proud to announce the birth of their first child, Jay Daniel Francis Casey, born on Aug. 3, 2002.

Dr. Greg & Lisa (Lile) Rutkowski ’88, ’89 have three children, Emma 6, Nathaniel 3 and Sophie 2. Greg received his Ph.D. at Iowa State and is an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Louisville. Greg will be taking a position at the University of Minnesota at the end of the summer.

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Sofia Adamson ’90 married James Collier on July 5, 2002. They are expecting their first child in August 2003.

Kristen (Spajer) Sarkan ’90 married Brian Sarkan on April 7, 2001. On Oct. 16, 2002 they welcomed the birth of their first child, Jacob Brian Sarkan.

Kevin Lebeter ’90 and his wife Gail welcomed their third son, Luke Edward, on Jan. 6, 2003. Luke joins big brothers Dean 6 and Jack 3. Kevin is currently working toward his plumbers' license, but his favorite job is being a dad!

Michelle (Maher) Cooper ’91 has completed a special graduate program at NYU in music therapy. She is currently at Temple University working on her Ph.D. Dr. Blaine Kristo ’91 is in his fifth year of a Urology residency at UCLA and active in areas of basic research. Blaine was part of the AP science program while attending MCHS and sent kudos back to Mr. Zerante and the Science Department for the great preparation. Mr. Zerante says you were a wonderful student and great kid.

Laura (Miller) Bruno ’89 and her husband Rick are extremely proud to announce the birth of their third child, Jessica Nicole, born on March 21, 2003.

Jessica joins her two sisters Rachel Marie (41/2) and Alyssa Claire (11/2).

Kari (Guagenti) O'Connor ’89 and husband John welcomed baby girl Shae Elisabeth on Sept. 9, 2002. She joins Gianna (31/2) and Rian (11/2). Kari is a full-time mom and lives in Western Springs, Ill. with her family of five.

Deanna (Lenczycki) Bosco ’89 and Jay are expecting their second child in June 2003. Big brother Joseph John (Joey) was born July 19, 2000.

Candace Gadomski ’89 has finished her Masters Degree and is employed as a school counselor at Ridgewood High School in Norridge, Ill. Elizabeth Eagan ’90 welcomed the birth of a baby girl, Emily Elise, born on Dec. 6, 2002.

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Aby and Jimmy Flamini, children of Jim Flamini ’89 and Julie (Katula) Flamini ’90

Patricia (Berger) Wagner ’91 and husband Daniel welcomed home a baby girl named Kaylee Klinn Wagner.

She was born on Dec. 10, 2002. She is their first child.

Gina (Costanza) Johnson ’91 was married to Matthew Johnson on May 3. The newlyweds live in Chicago.

Married for eight years this August, Brian and Tracy (Nowak) Villari ’91 ’92, are pleased to announce the birth of their second son, Trevor Anthony,

A born Dec. 18, 2002. Big brother Austin Christopher, who is now 61/2 years old, is very excited.

Dan Wojcikiewicz ’92 and wife Stephanie welcomed the birth of their son William Isaac, born on Dec. 5, 2002. He weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces.

Carol Pelino ’93 will complete her MBA at Loyola University in May 2003. She received her BS in Nursing from Xavier University in Ohio.

Jason Akai ’93 married Audrey Kizlaitis, a Mother McAuley alumna from Oak Lawn in April. She is an Occupational Therapist with Palos Community Hospital. Nick Akai ’97, Rick Fonte ’93 and John Johnson ’93 are all Marian alums who stood up in the wedding.

Jason is working for Alaris Consulting, a Management Consulting firm in Elmhurst, as a Network Administrator and is A+, Network+ and Server+ certified. He is also a Bass Trombonist with the American Wind Band of Oak Brook and the Naperville Area Trombone Ensemble who played at Jason’s wedding. Jason is a Grand Knight of the Brother William Kerkel Council of the Knights of Columbus in Midlothian and is the current Knights of Columbus Chairman for the State of the Art Band Festival, which MCHS’s band participates in annually. Jason will be featured in an upcoming issue of the Columbia, the international magazine of the KC’s.

Bridget (Ward) Nickel ’93 and husband Rick welcomed the birth of their first child. Hadley Maeve was born on Sept.

18, 2002 with a head full of red hair.

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Amy Eaton ’94 married Joey Seymour in July 2000. They welcomed the birth of their first child, Caroline Grace, on April 17, 2002.

Priscilla Valle ’94, a staff pharmacist with Walgreens, is engaged to David Sabbagh of Bloomington, Ind., a chemical engineer with DuPont. They are planning an October 2003 wedding.

Marie (Quinn) McMenamin ’94 graduated from Benedictine University in 1999 and has been teaching Special Education in the Plainfield Middle School. She has been involved in prison ministry to incarcerated teens since college and recently led a retreat at St. Charles Correctional Facility for 20 young men.

Marie was married on July 14, 2001.

She and her husband have become involved in their parish youth program and are teaching a Confirmation class to 15 energetic teenagers.

Emilee Jaworowski Biegel ’94 and spouse Jason, live in Calumet City. Emily is a stay at home mom with son Michael, who will be 4 in May.

Angela (Segvich) Matushek ’93 and her husband Joe welcomed their first child, Oskar, on June 26, 2002.

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2003 St. Patrick's Day Parade. The entire court took part in the South Side St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 16.

McLaughlin was excited about the flurry of activities scheduled for the entire week, which ended with the parade. Some of the activities included meeting Mayor Daley, attending Mass at old St. Patrick's Cathedral and visiting Irish Fellowship Clubs. She was shocked to be chosen, but also feels honored to represent her Irish heritage.

Joanna Fee ’96 was married to Jonathon King in a May wedding at Infant Jesus in Flossmoor. Joanna is a "Double Domer"two degrees from University of Notre Dame in 2000 and 2001. Jonathon is a rocket scientist for NASA. The newlyweds live in Washington, D.C. Chasitie Levesque ’96 graduated from the University of Illinois-Chicago on May 1, 2003, earning her Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

Juliana Blum ’94 earned her Doctorate of Philosophy in Molecular Biology in May. Stuart Thompson ’94 graduated from University of Illinois-Chicago with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2002. He is currently doing advanced training in the US Air Force at Shepard Air Force base in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Ross McCauley ’95 is a producer for the Tribune Company and is currently working on his MBA at Loyola University in Chicago.

Jane Kuraya ’95, a University of San Diego grad in Diversified Liberal Arts, is busy selling silicon chips to tech companies, as an Account Manager with Avnet, Inc., while working toward her MBA at San Diego State University.

Erika (Fuehmeyer) Myette ’95 and husband Michael-John welcomed the birth of their son Michael James.

Michael was born Jan. 15, 2003 at 8:50 p.m. He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces.

Mom and baby are doing great.

Emily Elise Eagan, daughter of Elizabeth Eagan ’90.

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Michael Massucci ’95 has joined the law firm of Timothy F. Kelly and Associates.

The firm has offices in Chicago and Dyer, Ind. Massucci is now licensed to practice law in Indiana and Wisconsin.

Bridget McLaughlin ’95 was selected as member of the Queen's Court for the

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Oskar Matushek, son of Angela (Seguich) Matushek ’93.

Regina Reeves ’96 is engaged to Michael Solomon. Together they are planning an Aug. 10, 2003 wedding at Big Sur, Calif. She is finishing her second year of school to earn her certification as a homeopath.

Beth (Houston) Britel ’96 married Simon Britel on Aug. 10, 2002. After graduating from the University of Evansville in December 2000, Beth received a job teaching music in Chicago Heights. The couple just built their first home in Cedar Lake, Ind. Luciana Zarlengo ’96 married Christopher Moran on Feb. 22, 2003. Lucy met Christopher while in grad school at University of Texas. They exchanged

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their vows at St. Bernard of Clairvaux in Scottsdale, Ariz. Luciana's sister Suzanna Zarlengo ’97 was Maid of Honor and cousin Katherine Crevier ’95 was a Gift Presenter. Her uncle John Ferrari ’63 was a reader. The newlyweds will make their new home in Austin, Texas.

James Mendenhall ’96 recently made his way through the Straits of Gilbraltar and into the Mediterranean Sea while assigned to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Mendenhall is aboard the USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group. His unit is an expeditionary intervention force with the ability to rapidly organize for combat operations in virtually any environment. His unit supplies and sustains itself for either quick mission accomplishment or clearing the way for follow-on forces.

On March 24th, Nick Akai ’97 and his wife Kristy welcomed their first baby, Anita Marie, into the world. She weighed 6 pounds 12 ounces and was 19 inches long. Anita Marie is named after one of Nick's Grandmothers.

Celebrating her 3rd month in June, she's still eating and sleeping like an Olympic Champion, and is not too cranky.

Melissa Thompson ’97 graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She is currently working at Baptist Hospital of Miami in the neonatal intensive care unit.

After Cecelia Quinn ’97 graduated from University of Illinois she joined the Peace Corps and is serving in Turkmenistan, a country just north of Iran and Afghanistan. She is teaching English classes and training teachers in 18 different schools. Previously, she's studied Spanish in Argentina and Spain. She also spent a month volunteering in Honduras.

Buford Payne ’98 graduated from Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. He is currently teaching Special Education to seventh & eighth graders and is the seventh grade football couch. Payne is the proud daddy of 10-month old Mishayla Payne. He resides in Columbus, Ohio.

Nicole Johnstone ’98 received her degree from Moraine Valley and is a radiology technologist, currently working as an interventional technologist at Ingalls Memorial.

Ryan Muzzo ’98 is purchasing a second home and is busy running his own company as a wiring contractor.

Patrick Sheehan ’98 is working at a local radio station WNIJ (89.5 FM) making

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regular news announcements during commercial breaks and other "what-not."

marry. Jill is studying in Spain and Dave recently graduated from St. Xavier.

Dawn Rajewski Cesaro ’98 is currently staying in the Chicagoland area with son Vincent Edward IV, 17 months; and daughter Anastasia Therese, 4 months, to be near family and friends while husband Vincent is serving the country overseas in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Normally, Dawn and family reside in snowy upstate New York. Dawn graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a Bachelor in Psychology and a minor in Women's Studies in 2002, but considers her husband and children her greatest and most treasured accomplishments. When her husband's time of service is over, Dawn plans to pursue a masters in psychology with a focus on children and women's issues.

Jacqueline Christie ’99 married Matthew Claxton of Peotone on Feb. 22, 2003.

She is working on her BA in Elementary Education and hopes to graduate from Trinity Christian College in December ’03.

Gregory Holl ’98 and Amanda Niemiec ’99 become engaged on Dec. 19, 2002.

Greg received his B.S. in Telecommunications Management from DeVry University and is currently a Senior Network Support Specialist at DeVry. Amanda will receive a B.A. in English from Loyola University in Chicago this spring and will be attending law school in the fall.

William Isaac Wojcikiewicz, son of Dan Wojcikiewicz ’92.

Proud alumni mom Pat Stucke updates on her daughters. Amber ’98 graduated from Barat with a Bachelors in Fine Arts. Recently, Amber was commissioned for altar art for the 100th Anniversary of St. John Parish.

Following hip replacement, Serena ’98 is finishing at DePaul University in photography. And Sarah ’94 has returned from Nepal where she served as a nurse with the Peace Corps, specializing in health education.

Dustin Vrab ’00 is a junior at Marquette University. He is a resident advisor and Vice President of the University Varsity Choir. He will soon be starting an internship with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Katie Barcikowski ’00 returned home on Dec. 18, 2002 after spending four months at National University of Ireland in Galway. Upon her return, she resumed her studies in communication at St. Norbert College in DePere, Wis. She is a member of Phi Beta Delta International Studies Honor Society and Lambda Pi ETA National Communication Honor Society. Barcikowski is also the 2003-2004 intern for the Women's Center at St. Norbert's. In this capacity, she will be responsible for planning and organizing the annual women's conference held on the campus of S.N.C. This event draws approximately 200 people to a day of speakers who address women's issues.

Pam Calzaretta ’01 is on the Deans List at Loyola University. She is also the Vice President of Education in her sorority.

Christine Sanello ’98 is teaching second grade in School District #152 and pursuing her masters degree.

Mitchell Brookins ’01 has been selected as Fine Arts Student of the Year at Illinois Wesleyan University.

Bridget Condon ’99 got engaged to Schwan Hardi while vacationing in Las Vegas on May 22, 2003. Bridget recently graduated from Regis University with a degree in communication and sociology, and is doing an internship for the local CBS affiliate in Denver.

Michael Duffy ’02 just finished his first year at Purdue University. Duffy was awarded Honorable Mention for an essay in a literary contest. In May he was inducted into Phi Alpha Theta, the International History Honors Society.

Dave Rockrohr ’99 and Jill Wrzesinski Skarvan ’00 recently became engaged to

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Jennifer Maccagnano ’02 is doing great at University of Dayton. Her fall semester she earned a 4.0 GPA, straight A's in Calculus I, Biology I, Chemistry II and English II.

Alums Continue to Mentor, to Share The MCHS Alumni Association continues its solid tradition of spanning the generations through the very practical focus on careers.

On May 12, 34 alums spoke to more than 800 MCHS freshmen and sophomores in three separate 20-minute pre-scheduled sessions. Insights were generously shared, and some students Mayor Richard Daley’s aide Eric Reese and Chief of Staff Sheila O’Grady ’85 show Caitlin Padula ’04, Lauren Woods ’04 and Dmytro Kumin ’04 the ropes at City Hall in Chicago in May as a part of the career mentor program.

dared to be different. “I went—

2003 Career Day Speakers Jim Fuehrmeyer, Alumni Parent Kerry Egglesfield Boetel ’89 Pete Gergel, Current Parent Sgt. Tschanz Mr. Jay Woodward Claudia Dolton Barnick John Hipelius, Liberty Graphics Mike Feminis ’86 Josh Lamont, Athletic Trainer MC Neil Harrington, Basketball Coach MC Joyce Urban, FNB, Chicago Heights Wendy Reid ’83 John Benish ’84 Pat Murphy ’74 Jennifer VanCamp ’88 Gene Backlin ’73 Greg Holl ’98 Vida Talandis ’69 Missy Glomb McDonald ’90 Troy Novak ’90 Julia Borst Brazas ’80 Elizabeth Kudra Orlick ’87 Dan Riordan ’87 Ray Murphy, Federal Hwy Admin Robert Clifford ’80

funeral director sessions. Both were very Matt Hayes ’97 Nancy Lynch Virene ’81 Greg Curry ’83 Kevin Welsh ’77 Phil Panozzo, Panozzo Funeral Home Joe Stanfa ’75 Richard Thiernau, Alumni Parent Patrick Kelly ’87 Brian Kleszynski ’91 Joe Hamann ’79 Judy Scalzitti Tonry ’79 Phyllis Marconi ’78 Bob Skelly, Prestige Photographer Meghan Reidy ’94 Sean Egglesfield ’95 Katherine Helm ’91 Scott Marshall ’93 Sr. Teresa, Faculty Jamie Mattio ’90 James Moore, Friend Michelle Glackin ’96 Maureen Laschober ’88 Rachel Willard ’88 Bob Bergstrom, Faculty Ron Centanni, Faculty

Sr. M. Alberta reflects on growing Marian The character-by-character hand stamping of aluminum plates with the ever-changing addresses and the updating of married names for girls was too slow and time consuming. Enter into the Development Office: our first Tandy Computer with its eight-inch floppy disks!

I forget the memory size, but it seemed huge at the time. Many helping hands inserted thousands of names and addresses, and gradually more information was added to each person’s record. It took hours more (many at night) to learn how to get the information out in a useable fashion. Some resisted this change like generations before them had resisted electricity.

The time had also come for parent and community input into the operation of the school. The Development Director,

Jack Heneghan began the task of searching for leaders who were willing to give of their time and talent to the school in a soon to be created Advisory Board.

The members wrote by-laws to include eligibility, term length, lack of conflicting interests and the purpose and procedures for meetings, etc.

Evaluations of and recommendations for the finances and the physical plant were among the first items to be tackled by the Board. The First Advisory Board was charting new ground and must succeed in the eyes of the community and for the future of Marian. Again the challenge was met! This is evident by the First Annual Fund in 1982-83 and the artist’s rendition of New Construction that spreads the center fold of the 21st Annual Honors Night Program of 1982-83.

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surprisingly—to both the culinary arts and good,” noted Andrew Zerante ’06.

Eighteen current parents and friends of Marian Catholic rounded out the Career Day offerings.

Missy Glomb McDonald ’90 speaks to Marian underclassmen during the annual Career Day on May 12.

(Continued from p. 7)

In April of 1983 ground was broken for a new Fine Arts Department and additional classrooms on the east side of the original building. Also included in this plan was the closing of the front entrance court to give additional space to the business and administration areas.

And, yes, the Athletic Department got something too. The first steps toward the current football complex were realized.

Thanks to the Advisory Board and our excellent building engineer Harvey Mazur, the new addition was ready to accept students in the fall of 1983.

And the challenge continues. I am happy and grateful to be a part of the Marian Family— and feel privileged when I can still be present among the fans and cheering, “We are MC!” —Sr. Mary Alberta, O.P.

Sr. Joan struts her stuff at the Mothers Club Fashion Show on March 22 at Odyssey Country Club.

Be a part of the Career Day “Speakers’ Bureau” or Career Mentor. Please complete and return the survey below to: Carol Burke Swanson ’81 Director of Development

Marian Catholic High School 700 Ashland Avenue Chicago Heights, IL 60411

Would you like to share your expertise? ❑ My name / address on reverse is correct.

❑ Please make corrections as needed.

Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Best phone to reach me: _________________________________________________________________________________________

CAREER DAY ❑ I would be willing to place my name on the Career Day’s Speakers’ Bureau list.

(A time commitment from 11a.m. to 2 p.m. one day in the spring is necessary.)

My specific focus would be _______________________________________________________________________________________

CAREER MENTOR ❑ I would be willing to host a student to “shadow” me at my work place at a mutually agreeable time.

Job / Career / Field: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Phone: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ❑ I live out of town (or have a career where job “shadow” is difficult) but would be willing to serve as a resource by phone / email to the MCHS Guidance Department should a student wish to explore my field of expertise which is: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

✁ what’s the news with you, alum?

Tell us any interesting news, events, or milestones in your life (marriage, children, promotions, service, career moves, etc.) that you would like to share with your fellow alumni. Also, please be sure to use this form to update information.

Name(s) ___________________________________________________________________________________Class of _____________ Address___________________________________________________________________________ Is this a new address? Yes No City ____________________ State _______Zip ________________E-Mail _________________________________________________ Home Phone ____________________________________________Work Phone ____________________________________________ NEWS _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Occupation/Position ___________________________________________________________ Interest in Career Mentor? Yes No

send to: Marian Catholic High School, Alumni Relations Director 700 Ashland Avenue, Chicago Heights, Illinois 60411 fax: 708.756.9759 • e-mail: alumni@marianchs.com

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✁

M A R I A N

C A T H O L I C

ALUMNI

Office for Institutional Advancement Marian Catholic High School 700 Ashland Avenue Chicago Heights, IL 60411 708.755.6579

A S S O C I A T I O N

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage

PA I D Permit No. 274 Tinley Park, IL

www.marianchs.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

2003 REUNIO NS Plan to renew friendships and trade stories at this year’s class reunions. The Classes of 1968 and 1983 will get together on Saturday, Aug. 16 and Homecoming (Oct. 3-5) reunions are planned for the Classes of 1963, 1973, 1978, 1993 and 1998.

DECADE OF CHAMPIONS Marian football and cheerleading will honor alumni from the years 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993 and 2003 with the fourth annual event on Friday, Sept. 12 when the Spartans host Carmel at 7:30 p.m. A postgame reception is planned as well.

HOMECOMING 2003 The weekend of Oct. 3-5 will present a great opportunity to rediscover Marian, highlighted by the Homecoming football game vs. rival Joliet Catholic and the annual Homecoming Gathering on Friday, various reunions throughout the weekend and the 45th anniversary Mass in the Croarkin Theatre on Saturday at 5 p.m.

Reunions are planned for the Classes of 1963, 1973, 1978, 1993 and 1998.

CAREER MENTOR PROGRAM The annual opportunity for alumni to mentor current students will be offered again. Please contact the Alumni Office if you are interested in serving as a mentor to current junior students.

For more information on all alumni events, please contact the Alumni Relations Office at 708-755-6579.

Alum Basketball 2003 PLAYOFFS Championship round Savick beat Ruhl (title) Hogan beat Hogeveen (third) Dolci beat Villari (cons. title) Semifinals Savick 61, Hogan 46 Ruhl 76, Hogeveen 64 Early rounds Hogan 74, Dolci 68 Ruhl 62, Villari 46 Hogeveen 80, Faculty 64 Villari 68, Faculty 59 1st- Savick (11-0): Mike Zajeski ’87, Bob Clarida, John Bonomo ’96, Adam Savick ’92, Pat Brown, Odarie Weathers, Jonathan Savick ’96.

2nd- Ruhl: Dave Ruhl ’93, Matt Cleghorn ’93, James Rhodes ’93, Matt Ruhl ’96, Taylor Griffin’93.

3rd- Hogan: Mike Wall, Todd Andrews, John Dee ’88, Tim Swanson ’86, Joe Klupchak ’85, Darryl Pugh, Bill Hogan ’79.

Johnny Rhode ’87 goes up for two during action in the Alumni Basketball League.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OFFICERS Christopher Cummings ’76 Chairperson Colleen (O’Neill) Ranieri ’83 Vice Chairperson

Our Mission at Marian Catholic Marian Catholic, under the sponsorship of the Springfield Dominicans, is a coeducational, college preparatory high school where students seek truth, exhibit personal responsibility, cultivate their individual talents, and demonstrate Christian service and leadership.