April 10th by Xavier High School Newspaper

April 10, 2014 Volume 16 Issue 12

Music and Drama trips

Spring break takes Saints to Chicago & NYC

Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 www.xaviersaints.org www.issuu.com/xpressnewspaper/docs Follow us: @xpressnewspaper Cover design by Meghan Gerke, photos by Ashley Pudil and Mrs. Hussey

2 Index

News Opinion Student Life Mini-Feature Feature Health & Lifestyle A&E Sports Backpage

News

2 4 6 7 8 10 11 14 16

Editor-In-Chief Quinlan Moran

Copy Editor

Katherine Bauer

Photo Editor

Meghan Gerke Photographer Maddie Bailey

News Editor

Maria Efting News Assistant Amy Boe News Writer Erin Drahozal

Opinion Editor Morgan Noonan Opinion Assistant Nic Ekland Opinion Writers Maddy Bailey Tory Brown Brennan Graeve Chloe Streif Ben Valentine

Student Life Editor Brady Hoffman Student Life Assistant Julie Woods

Mini-Feature Editors Rachel Brady Molly Vipond

Feature Editors Jenna Fenske Anna White Feature Assistant Colette Miller Feature Writer Lizzy Bailey

Health and Lifestyle Editor Hannah Chute Health and Lifestyle Assistants Erin Drahozal Jeff Frieden

Arts and Entertainment Editor Emma Hunt Arts and Entertainment Assistant Ashley Pudil Arts and Entertainment Writers Kayla Thompson Julie Woods Ben Valentine Daniel Vega

Sports Editor Shannon Mulcahey Sports Assistant Morgan Breitbach Sports Writers Katherine Bauer Nic Ekland Daniel Vega

Backpage Editors Jenna Fenske Anna White Backpage Assistant Mary Esker

Xavier High School

Retreat held for Xavier girls This year, a day long girls’ retreat was held for girls in all grades. The optional retreat was at St. Pius Church from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on March 17 when the freshmen and sophomores attended, and March 18 when the juniors and seniors attended. Xavier guidance counselor Mrs. Joy St. Andrews and nurse Mrs. Kristine Naeve worked together to plan the retreat and had been doing so since the beginning of the school year. This is the second girls’ retreat Xavier has held, the first in 2009. “The idea came to us back in 2008 when I was talking to Mrs. Globokar about all of the things we wanted to teach young women that are not necessarily covered in high school curriculum,” Mrs St. Andrews said. “We asked Kris Naeve if she wanted to be involved, and we were off and running with ideas. With the pressures of just being a teenager combined with the pressures that the media places on young ladies, we wanted to offer Xavier girls a safe environment where we could talk about things not normally talked about in a high school setting.” The retreat started with prayer, and then the girls in attendance were asked to do an activity that demonstrated what it looks like to have their

heart hurt and how it is very hard to make it look the same. The girls then welcomed speaker Andrea Reinert from Veracity, which is an extension of Bridgehaven in Cedar Rapids. Reinert discussed chastity and the importance of setting boundaries in relationships. She also brought with her two college students as a panel to give girls a more relatable way to connect with the values she was teaching. Next, yoga instructor Maria Dummermuth arrived to teach the girls techniques of yoga and relaxation, as it is an increasingly popular way to stay healthy. After yoga, a selfie activity took place where girls went around commenting on the self portraits every girl submitted prior to attending the retreat as a way to help improve positive self esteem. This activity doubled with a video about how it is nearly impossible to live up to the unrealistic standards magazines and celebrities set for women and that it is important to love yourself as you are. “I thought the selfie activity was really good,” junior Anne Scherrman said. “It showed me that even when you don’t really feel good about yourself there are always people there who care and are there to lift you up.”

Next, Mandy Moellering of North Liberty spoke to the girls about struggles and the importance of self-love. After listening to Moellering’s talk, the girls were told to pamper each other with a homemade hand scrub made by Mrs. Naeve. While the girls scrubbed each other’s hands, Mrs. St. Andrews and Mrs. Naeve answered anonymous questions girls had put in a mailbox throughout the day. As thedaywascoming toaclose, the girls watched a video about “fat talk” and were challenged by Mrs. St. Andrews to cut any negative talk about their body out of their vocabulary, as it does nothing good to help promote self-love. The day ended the same way it began, with a prayer. “We hope that the girls left the retreat knowing that the path of your life depends on thousands of small decisions you make everyday, so make smart choices,” Mrs. St. Andrews said. “If you make a mistake, learn from it. God will forgive you so you have to be able to forgive yourself. Be confident young ladies; respect yourself and demand that same respect from those you surround yourself with.”

Following a month filled with Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, and Spring Break comes an event about drinking responsibly. April is Alcohol Awareness Month. A stark contrast to the wild party known as March, this important celebration educates the Untied States on drinking dangers. The month has been sponsored since 1987 by the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence, Inc. For the 2014 iteration of Alcohol Awareness Month, NCADD has created the theme “Help for today, hope for tomorrow.” It stresses prevention in the fight against irresponsible drinking. When the youth today make smart decisions about alcohol, the world will be a little better tomorrow. “We can’t afford to wait any longer,” Greg Muth of NCADD said. “It is time for action to make

sure everyone is aware of the risks of drinking. Taking a bite out of alcohol abuse will reap rewards of safer roads and healthier communities. Those wishing to enhance their lives in a world without alcohol addiction should become examples of responsible alcohol choices. Refusing a drink also refuses the dangers and detrimental consequences connected to alcohol. Positive role models are all a young person may need to stay off the slippery slope of alcohol addiction.” The proactive approach to alcohol awareness stops drinking before it mutates into abuse. Underage drinkers risk up to a four times greater chance of alcohol addiction than those who start drinking at the legal age of 21. This troubling statistic solidifies a need for everyone to be aware of the

problems they could face if they make the decision to abuse alcohol. The world of alcohol abuse is a dark place with innumerable consequences including legal problems for drunk driving and death by overdose or suicide. The painful truth is alcohol kills more teenagers than all illegal drugs combined. 1,700 college students suffer alcohol related deaths annually. It is easy to see the problems alcohol can create, but there are also solutions. The key is to strike fast and prevent kids from becoming part of the 7,000 young adults under the age of 16 who start drinking each day. This April, make the commitment to be aware of the dangers of alcohol and stay away from this risky drug. Tyler Testin HOSA Member

Amy Boe Assistant News Editor

Awareness and action attacks alcohol abuse

Business Tory Brown

Time is running out...

Distribution Brennan Graeve

Advertising Olivia Rochford

BUY A YEARBOOK The Xpress Bi-weekly Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 Volume 16 Issue 12

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News 3 Students place 2nd, Landslide wreaks havoc 12th at State Mock Trial on Washington residents April 10, 2014

Two teams of Xavier students took second and twelfth place in the state Mock Trial competition held in Des Moines on March 26-28. Although Xavier doesn’t have a mock trial team, five upperclassmen and nine underclassmen have decided to participate in Robins Mock Trial, a program that is not affiliated with the school. Upperclassmen Grace Busse, Maria Efting, Rory Gallagher, Jack VonKampen, and Alea Challenger along with underclassmen Gwen Cataldo, Jeff Daubitz, Andy Globokar, K.J. Giles, Katie Neumeyer, Jordyn Boge, Lizzie Leu, Peter Deegan and Charlie Esker are members of Team Sunday and Team Wednesday, respectively. In addition, two members on Team Sunday come from schools other than Xavier: Hannah Botkin from Kennedy and Mary Korch from Jefferson. The students are coached by local attorneys Tim Semelroth, Emily Anderson, Chad VonKampen, and the Honorable Steve Jackson. Since 1983, the Iowa Mock Trial Program has given thousands of students the opportunity to get a close up look at the judicial process. The Iowa program remains among the largest in the nation; during the

2012-2013 school year, close to 3,500 students in grades 6-12 participated in mock trial competitions. Mock trial is designed to introduce students to the legal system by providing a challenging, academic competition. The program offers students an opportunity for personal growth and achievement, emphasizing the importance of research, presentation, and teamwork. “Participating in mock trial has taught me valuable lessons that I will use in my future occupation,” junior Alea Challanger said. “It has given me good speaking skills and taught me teamwork.” Both teams competed in three preliminary rounds at state. Team Wednesday was awarded the 12th place trophy, while Team Sunday moved on to the semi-final and final rounds on Friday, held at the Iowa Supreme Court Building. Team Sunday took home the second place trophy, with a team from Pocahontas coming in first. For more information or how to participate in mock trial, visit iowabar.org.

Erin Drahozal News Writer

Team Wednesday and Sunday pose after their third trial at state. Liz Efting Photo.

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On March 22, the town of Oso, Washington was bombarded by a rain-saturated hillside along the north end of the Stillaguamish River, with a square mile rush of wet earth and land slamming into the city, killing 30 and leaving 13 missing. Searchers and dogs continued to peruse the area for bodies, clinging to a hope that someone could be found alive. The landslide is shaping up to be one of the worst in U.S. history. The last slide of such a magnitude was seen in Virginia in 1969, following the wake of Hurricane Camille. Over 150 people were killed. While loss of human life is by far the worst outcome of the disaster, the town remains in shambles. The landslide’s immense power crushed much of what was in its way: homes, cars, and businesses. Debris is an average of 30 feet deep throughout the disaster zone and up to 70 feet in isolated locations. Arlington Mayor Barbara Tolbert said the town is grateful for the diligent search crews and volunteers who have aided in the aftermath of the slide. “They are searching for friends, and they are searching for families,” she said. “We ask that you continue to keep us in your hearts. This community will be healing for a very long time.” Residents in the path of the landslide say they had virtually no warning before the disaster struck. It was not until they heard a conglomeration of trees, mud, and other debris rushing down the mountain that they knew there was

The American flag stands tall in a pile of debris. Google Images Photo. the

potential for trouble. There is no national system to monitor landslides, unlike the elaborate warning systems and maps that help residents and officials prepare for floods and hurricanes. At this time, no efforts are underway to create nation wide landslide hazard maps. Washington Governor Jay Inslee requested that President Barack Obama issue a major disaster declaration for the area affected. The Governor asked for aid with expenses including housing, funeral services, and unemployment insurance for those who lost their jobs at the hands of the landslide. Donations to help the cause can be made at redcross.org

Maria Efting News Editor

Opinion

Xavier High School

Show your respect for the grandparents

Recently I have a new endeavor at the local retirement community called Cottage Grove Place with my amazing Xavier co-workers Anna White, Cassie Ruhd, Emma Ventiecher, and Lizzie Udlehoven. We serve as waitresses for the residents. This job has provided an amazing opportunity to renew my respect for the elderly. Although most of them have gray hair and need walkers or wheelchairs for assistance, they never fail to crack a joke and make me smile or provide me with an incredible story from their past. Society today has caused our generation to be lacking in the areas of respect and honor. As teenagers, we think we know everything, but those older than us know so much more and have often been through some of the same situations we have.

up a conversation with a stranger. We can hopefully all come to realize the true wisdom and integrity that lies in the little old lady behind the driving wheel before we honk at her for going five mph under the speed limit. Instead of going out with your friends this Saturday, go out to eat with your grandparents or volunteer at a nursing home. Help bring joy to those who can giveyou a tremendous insight on life and the challenges they have already overcome.

Maddie and her co-workers enjoy working with the elderly. Maddie Bailey Photo. If you just take five minutes and talk to a grandma or grandpa, you will learn so much and get an insight to what their past was like. We often see it as a hassle to go visit grandma and grandpa, but I have never regretted sitting down and having a good conversation with

them. We have to keep in mind that all those “grumpy old people” once were young and had exciting, memorable lives. Whether it is disease, bodily ailments, or just retirement that changes their everyday life, they always seem to be happy to say hello or strike

Turn down for what? Turn down for whom? Well turn down for yourself. Our lives are too loud and any silence immediately becomes deemed as “awkward.” Silence does not have to be awkward. Silence is amazing if you give it a try. The possibilities are endless. Our lives are go go go, and we drown ourselves in music, technology, and people. Silence has become what happens only in sleep. Take some time to just be silent. Some call this meditation. Go ahead and meditate. See what

you can finally “hear” in yourself. Silence in many cultures is considered respectful and reverent. Buddhist monks will go years without muttering a single word. They are also considered to be at the highest level of wisdom, generally the happiest, and among the most respected people in the world. It goes to show that you can be wise and respected without saying a word. Have you ever gone on a nature walk? Not like a field trip or just being outside, but have you ever purposefully gotten lost in nature? If you have, did you try listening to nature, not just to the birds and other animals, but to trees and the grass? Have you ever heard what a rock has to say?

(I’m not crazy; I swear.) Or were you too busy with your friends or worried about getting lost? Do you know what the world is saying? Or are you too focused on what you have to say about the world? Silence has become a treasure to me. Silence forces me to think. It also forces the inverse, the complete clearing of one’s mind. Maybe if we close our mouths and open our minds, we will become like the Buddhist monks. Until then, stay quiet, Saints. Shhhhhh.

Last year, when I took U.S. History with Mrs. Schutt, we had just finished a test when she gave us a survey about our study methods. Jokingly, she put “Playing Assassin’s Creed III” as an option. If you don’t know what Assassin’s Creed III is about, it follows the footsteps of a Native American named Connor who fights for his freedom during the American Revolution. I had been playing Assassin’s Creed at that time, and I realized it wasn’t much of a joke, because the Assassin’s Creed games are based off of actual events in history. This is one of the many ways that I believe that video games or

just games in general can actually improve a student’s education. Most games have a puzzle-like plot, and even if it seems like mindless tapping on the screen, it still takes some problem solving skills to pass on to the next level. Students also like to be rewarded for their hard work. After studying for an hour, one doesn’t receive 100 gems or life points that they can use to upgrade their textbook. A cool game that is popular now is QuizUp. One can take a quiz on just about any topic ranging from dog breeds to computer science. Although some of the topics won’t add IQ points, they still give your mind a little workout. I understand that not every game out there improves a person’s intelligence, and if a kid knew that it was meant for education, they probably wouldn’t

play it. So that’s why it’s cool when mainstream games incorporate science, math, history, geography, or astronomy into their plot. For example, my favorite video game: Skyrim. In this game, one can become a thane (a high ranking person in a court system) of any or every city. I found out through Skyrim what a thane was, and when the time came when we read Beowulf and Macbeth in AP English, I had no trouble understanding it. Playing games helps students solve problems, learn about history, and improve their hand-eye coordination. I encourage students to find games that test their mental abilities, but let’s be respectful and not play them during class.

Maddie Bailey Opinion Writer

Saintly

Embrace the beauty of silence

Benefits of video games

Chloe Streif Opinion Writer

Satanly <

Brennan Graeve Opinion Writer

April 10, 2014

Opinion

Lives change when habits change

Lent can take us on an enriching journey to get us closer to Jesus. But why should we give up material items? Why should we vow to pray for 15 minutes a day? Why should we give money or time to serve others? The first and main reason would be to grow closer to Jesus in our “joyous suffering,” remembering his sacrifice to us and looking forward to his resurrection. In addition, Lent can help us break bad habits and form good ones. We are creatures of habit. We sit in the same place at Mass, and we eat the same food. These things can be positive for our lives and our relationship with God or they can be negative. Matthew Kelly could not be more right in saying, “Our lives change when our habits change.” When setting our Lenten goals, sacrifices, or promises, it is important to know it is not ‘required’ by the Church; it is a

personal sacrafice between you and God. It is another opportunity to grow in holiness. But to be able to effectively reach our goals, it is important to know how to set goals. Lenten goals should be aimed at growing in holiness and doing things that bring us closer to God. They need to be Challenging, Reasonable, Achievable, and Measurable for you right now. The acronym CRAM makes this easy to remember. For example a good goal would be: I am going to pray two decades of the Rosary on my knees before I go to bed every night. Depending on your situation, this could be challenging, reasonable, achievable, and most importantly measurable. A bad goal for this could be: I am going to pray more. That is not measurable or challenging because you can’t hold yourself accountable. It is a cop out, and it will be easy to fall back and not carry it out. If it helps you be accountable, have a Lenten promise partner or group to check up on you and keep you on the right track. Accountability is

key to getting better. This applies after Lent as well. Let someone know. Then you have yourself, your partner, and God praying for you and supporting you. On researching this topic of habits, I found a website that referenced a study done by the University College London. There were 96 people that participated and they attempted to form new habits that could be measured. The study debunked the idea that it takes 21 days to form a habit. If you think about it logically and rationally, this idea can’t be true. The process of forming habits, especially good ones, has a lot of factors: will power, the power of the negative habit on you, your reason to form the habit. The study in a nutshell said that your habits may take 25 days or two years to become ‘automatic’. It takes time and persistence; we have to accept that to achieve the goal. But other factors you can think of are heavily weighted in this as well. Understand that you may not carry out your promises perfectly. God doesn’t expect perfection, but he expects

Early bird or late worm? Throughout my life, I have been repeatedly reminded that the early bird gets the worm. Translation: the one to act first or early has the advantage to succeed. I find it saddening that we have taken such a one-sided perspective when considering the predator-prey relationship of the bird and the worm. We have ignored the other side of the proverb where lies the wellrested worm that still has its life. Hopefully you have enjoyed your moment in the sun(rise), Mr. Early Bird, because the reign of the late-awakening worm is upon us. Some people—primarily the glass half-empty type—perceive the metaphorical late worm as merely a lazy creature, while I see the well-rested worm as a strategist with the ability to see the bigger picture. The early bird may get there first, but it is the sleeping worm that wins the battle and the war known as sleep. Society claims that I will fall short of my goals simply because I am not the early bird. A part of me has always thought that one’s waking time has no bearing on productivity or creativity. Some people wake early and others wake late. There

our very best. If you mess up, keep trying and praying for the strength to carry on and keep working. Your habits and attempts at holiness can’t end on Easter Sunday. I understand that you’re reading this halfway through Lent, but it is important to set goals and try to be accountable for our habits because they form who we are. Mr. Keating says, “You are what you do.” This is true. Do your best to form good habits. CRAM goals not only this Lenten season, but always, that help you grow in holiness.

Ben Valentine Opinion Writer

Hall Talk “We have a Shetland pony in our kitchen”

’t n a c “I ng! ti e a e w ’v s I p , sto t me .” s d Tru trie

Nic Ekland’s mother snaps Nic’s photo while waking him up early for school. Terry Ekland Photo. may be trends you can point to, every story, folks. So be but just because the early-riser nice to the late worm—it’s tends to be a more productive not his fault he can’t read. person does not mean that early awakening causes productivity. Similar to the early bird, let’s talk about the early mouse. What’s the early mouse get? Snap goes the mousetrap! In comes the late mouse. like the late worm, to casually snag the cheese that the first mouse worked so hard for. I want the cheese. Nic Ekland There are two sides to Assistant Opinion Editor

“The Louisiana Purchase has me feelin’ some type of way.” “Oo ps, sor for ry, I g the ot t o t m el que to sti put l aft on a mar er ‘pr k om’ .” “The googlyeye on my cat fell off.”

Student Life

what’s your bio?

Xavier High School

Landon Dochterman ‘14 landondoc8

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”

Nate Lux ‘15 natedelux44

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you. Psalm 91

Jeff Daubitz ‘17

Eryn Kirby ‘17

Trying to do this whole “People Thing”

My hobbies are breakfast, lunch and dinner

Evan Gradoville ‘15

Brendan Miller ‘14

jeff_daubitz

Kirby_eryn

Ameena Challenger ‘14 ameenagabrielle

Only time will tell

Christine Jengwa ‘15 Jengwaa Naps always make any day better

Lizzie Udelhoven ‘15

Graddy97

BoobieMiller When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you will be successful #RBU

Kaitlyn Albert ‘16

Peter Deegan ‘17

Skylar DeCamp ‘16

currently impersonating a bird

Today is the oldest you have ever been and the youngest you will ever be again <3

Upper body or die

kaitlyn_albert2

There will be obstacles. There will be doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, there are no limits

Editor: Brady Hoffman Assistant Editor: Julie Woods

pkdeegan25

mizzliz12

I’m perfectly imperfect. K18

loveshowchoir

Senior Crushes

April 10, 2014

Mini-Feature

As the seniors begin to pack up and check out of high school, the underclassmen were asked, “Who is your senior crush?” “Quinlan Moran because she’s the bomb.com and show choir girls are the best. She’s really pretty.” Charlie Esker ‘17

“Quinton Scholer because he is athletic, has a good smile, and is good looking.” Jamie Feltes ‘16

“Halle Heying because she is a cutie.” Sean Murphy ‘16

“Chad Eichler because of show choir and he’s really cute and super friendly.” Emma Erner ‘17

“Ryan Flaherty where do I begin... I can ‘t help who I’m attracted to.” Emma Venteicher ‘15

Design by: Molly Vipond and Rachel Brady Photos by: Molly Vipond

Feat

8 April 10, 2014

Mr. & Mrs. Walker

“My wife was a senior at Luther College; I had already graduated from there. I contacted some of her friends that were on campus to help me out! I set up a scavenger hunt, leaving riddles all around the college campus. She had to “figure out” the riddles, each one taking her to the next place. I tried to make them somewhat easy so the plan would work. While she was going around campus, I snuck in to her dorm and waited--her last note took her back to her room, where I proposed. Thankfully she said yes! We then celebrated on campus with all of our friends.” -Mr. Walker

“On Valentine’s Day, he and I went out for dinner and saw a movie. We came back to my apartment and exchanged Valentine’s Day gifts. Then he told me he had one more gift for me. He said to close my eyes and turn around. When I opened my eyes and turned back around to face him, he was down on his knee. He asked me to marry him, but I thought it was a joke so I kicked him. He assured me that this proposal was real and bit the ring to show that it wasn’t fake. He said he truly loved me, so I said yes.” -Mrs. Flores

The Pro

Mr. & Mrs. Flores

“I met my wife through the National Guard and on Valentine’s Day after our drill, we met my parents for dinner at the Cheesecake Factory. Then we went back to their house, had champagne, and watched a movie. I told my dad I wanted to marry her and I had already bought the ring. I wasn’t planning on proposing that day because both my wife and I thought Valentine’s Day was a cliche holiday. However, my dad Mr. & Mrs. Schaub mentioned the ring while she was in the room. So I just proposed right then and there since it was no longer a surprise. It ended up being a botched proposal, but now my wife and I call Valentine’s Day “Ring Day” and celebrate it as the day we got engaged.” -Mr. Schaub

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MOST RECENTLY ENGAGED TEACHER, MR. CAMACHO!!!!!!

Mr. & Mrs. Goertz “My friends told me we were meeting up with Seth, my now-husband, at a Mexican restaurant. I was in my apartment with my roommates starving and making a fuss because I wanted to eat sooner, but they kept making excuses because Seth was setting up the proposal at the river walk. We pulled up to the river walk,I was really confused, but my friends told me they wanted to take an artsy picture there. Instead, they gave me an envelope and ran away. The letter was from Seth, telling me to keep walking to the bridge. Snow was falling as we met on the bridge and rose petals were all around. He said more nice words, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.“ -Mrs. Goertz

ture

oposal “My husband organized a surprise trip to Atlanta for a Valentine’s Day gift to celebrate our relationship. People speculated that he would pop the question, but I wasn’t too sure. We were there over Easter weekend and did all of the touristy things, went out to dinner...and nothing. I was waiting for him to ask me, but brushed aside the idea. Then one night after we saw the Atlanta Olympic memorial fountain show, he took me walking through the statues. When we arrived at the most quiet, private spot of the park, he knelt down and asked me to marry him. I laughed and cried hysterically and said yes!” -Mrs. Hussey

Mr. & Mrs. Hussey

Xavier High School “I met my husband at a wedding, where both of our dates knew each other. We got along well so I asked him to be my date for a dance. I asked him out on two more dates before he asked me to be his girlfriend. We dated for four years while I was living in Wisconsin and he lived in Cedar Rapids working for Rockwell. He asked me multiple times if we wanted to get married, but I kept saying, ‘not yet,’ until the time came when we made a mutual agreement that getting married was a good idea. We went ring shopping together, and he gave it to me in a music box for Christmas that year.” -Mrs. (Peggy) Hrneirik

Mr. & Mrs. Hrncirik

P KARA R Z., Will you O go to M prom P with me? O -BEN S A L !

Page Editor: Anna White. Assistant Editor: Colette Miller. Photos submitted.

Mr. & Mrs. Keating “I met my wife in Maxwell, Iowa. It was my first teaching job, her dad was on the school board, and I taught her sisters. I like to joke that her dad only gave me the job if I married his daughter. I invited her to dinner on Halloween with my friends, in Des Moines. Prior to them arriving, I got down on one knee, said some nice things, and asked her to marry me. She says that is was the most frightening thing because of it happening on Halloween night.” -Mr. Keating

Health & Lifestyle

Xavier High School

Lifestyle Makeover

Follow these easy daily changes to improve your outlook on life and relieve stress that can become overwhelming.

1 # P

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some thing each t day, e o look fo Make ven if rwar it a g oal t i t ’s little d to o com . plime Be su nt or rrou someone. help nded by po sitive peopl e!

“I have to juggle between homework and work almost every night. I manage my time by breaking it up and doing some at night and some in the morning so I still get enough sleep. A huge lifestyle tip I use is exercising because it really helps relieve my stress.” -Senior Kelsi Fuller

TIP Eat the

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#4 P TI Time Mana gement g that n i h t y er r t of ev ook at you s i l a the down hed. L f s i o l p g m Write o in be acc the beginn e busy and must r st days a ule at t d a e h d adju h w c n s a d , n e i et nd f e fre e to g m i week a ys are mor t h g da e enou est. v a e what l . dingly od nights r accor a go

SIGNS OF BEING STRESSED Memory problems Anxious thoughts Aches and pains Dizziness/Nausea Moodiness/Isolation Frequent colds

HEALTH PROBLEMS DUE TO STRESS Pain of any kind Heart disease Sleep problems Weight problems Immune problems Skin issues

Page Design by Hannah Chute and Jeff Frieden. Information from http://www.helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm and leanitup.com. Photos by Hannah Chute.

A&E 11 Xavier performs Lost in Yonkers Individual All-State Speech April 10, 2014

Xavier High School’s drama department is putting on its final show of this year. Lost In Yonkers is also director Mr. Mike Cervantes’ last play at Xavier before he officially retires. The bittersweet finale to Mr. Cervantes’ career is ending with one of his favorite plays. “I saw Lost In Yonkers on Broadway and fell in love with it. I’ve always wanted to direct it on the Xavier stage,” Mr. Cervantes said. The play focuses on the life of Jay Kurnitz, played by freshman Peter Deegan, and his dysfunctional family. Jay has gone to live with his grandmother, played by Chloe Streif, and Aunt Bella, played by Quinlan Moran, in Yonkers, New York. Jay’s younger brother Arty, played by freshman Connor Miller, is also under Jay’s care. The play is a coming of age story, where the characters learn to find who they truly are amidst the chaos of everyday life. Lost In Yonkers has been practicing and rehearsing for weeks, preparing to make this show one of Xavier’s best. “We spend so many hours building and painting the sets, blocking scenes, learning lines, and rehearsing,” Streif said, “It’s all worth it though, because we’re all having fun.” The seniors in the play are also sad to leave the Xavier stage, but are excited for new things to come. “When I’m at Columbia College, I’ll miss everyone from Xavier and performing in the RegisLaSalle Theater, but I’m so glad I could learn so much from Mr. C, especially this year since it’s not only my last, but also his,” Streif said. The play was previewed for

the teachers and several Xavier students yesterday afternoon on Wednesday, April 9. It will be performed for the masses starting tonight on April 10, 11, and 12. If one has not already purchased tickets in the Activities Office, they will be for sale outside the theater for $4 for students and $6 for adults before each show. Tickets will sell quickly, so try to arrive early. The shows will begin at 7 p.m. each night.

Above (from left to right): Freshman Connor Miller, senior Quinlan Moran, and freshman Peter Deegan sit on the couch in dress rehearsal. Below: Senior Chloe Streif lectures senior Bryce Volk in rehearsal. Ashley Pudil Photos.

On March 15, 25 Xavier students participated in the State Individual Speech contest in hopes of qualifying for the All State Speech Festival. The following Monday, March 17, the Iowa High School Speech Association announced which students were selected to perform. Seniors Kayla Lansing (musical theatre), Nicholas Mlodzik (radio news), and Chad Airy (spontaneous speaking and improvisation), along with juniors Jacob Hansen (improvisation) and Noah Lauer (musical theatre) were all chosen to participate. However, due to the annual Voce tour, only Mlodzik and Hansen attended. “It is unfortunate that they will not have the opportunity to represent Xavier at All-State, especially the seniors,” speech coach Mrs. Lisa Streif said. “They, however, are still considered to be All-State performers and will receive the recognition and medal that comes with that honor.”

For Mlodzik, this is the third time he has qualified in his category. “It is an amazing feeling to be selected for All-State,” Mlodzik said. “Since All-State is such a small group of kids compared to all the speech kids in the state, several good people were unable to make it in. It is a huge honor.” Along with Mlodzik, 21 seniors will be leaving the speech team. This will present the opportunity for underclassmen to fill in the leadership roles. “I look forward to working more with this year’s freshmen as they continue on the team,” Mrs. Streif said. “It will be tough to see them [the seniors] go, but I am excited about the future!” The annual speech banquet, Xclamation, will be held April 14.

Kayla Thompson A&E Writer

The Power of She SuccessShe: a seminar for young women by young women Tory Brown: junior from Xavier High School Kinzie Farmer: junior from Prairie High School Who: For all high school young women What: Seven speakers are sharing their personal stories about leadership, challenges that women face, and overcoming true obstacles.

Emma Hunt A&E Editor

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Nic’s Picks

A&E

Xavier High School

Comics with Keefe

Pace Skizzy Mars The underground hip-hop sensation Myles Mills, better known as Skizzy Mars, has done it again, releasing some of his best work to date on March 4. Pace, the 12 track album produced by Michael Keenan with features from Ms. Jones and Jon Waltz, is sure to please the avid music lover. Pace is filled with beats that make you want to roll the windows down; it’s the perfect summertime album to put on shuffle and chill. Skizzy does a great job of intertwining popular electronic beats with his undeniable rap flow, rapping about the party life and his never ending ambition to make it big in his career. Though I am a big advocate

for this album, at times it seems to blend too much with his prior album Phases, which was wonderfully composed. The only complaint I can conjure up is that Skizzy seems to be stuck. What he raps about, his stylistic view, and his overall demeanor are very similar to his past. As a wishful thinker, I wanted to see more growth from his first album as an artist, but he stayed with what he knows, which is still not necessarily a bad thing. Looking at the album as a whole, Pace includes many pleasing hits such as: Make Sense, Mistakes, and Half Past Three. The entire album is a must download. Find Pace on SoundCloud or download it at skizzymars.com.

Nic’s Pick from the album:

Mistakes

Spring Break Problem Solving Emma Keefe Comic Artist

Nic Ekland Opinion Assistant Editor

A recap of Xhilaration and Xuberance’s show choir season

“A family is a little world created by love.” Each person has someone in their life who changes him or her for the better and is like family. For the Xavier Show Choirs, however, one person is actually 45 singers, 15 musicians, 12 techies, and two directors. For the past eight months, Xhilaration and Xuberance have been learning choreography, competing together, and sharing memories. March was especially busy for both groups as they prepared and performed for some of the largest audiences they had all year. The second Saturday in March was a crazy, yet exciting day for all members as they hosted Xtravaganza, which is the annual middle school show choir competition. Starting on Friday night, each singer, combo

member and techie spent hours setting the stage, packaging food, and decorating homerooms and hallways. On Saturday, the choirs served food to audience members, hosted different middle school groups, helped judges, and did everything in between to make sure the day went smoothly. The performance portion of the season ended for Xhilaration and Xuberance on March 13 when they performed their shows for the last time. However, this was not the end as they all gathered together one last time at the Show Choir Banquet on March 17. Awards, a slide show, and the parent show choir, Xaggeration, all made the evening memorable. Looking at the 2013-2014 season, Xuberance placed second in two competitions and placed third once. Xhilaration placed in finals

four times and received a combined total of three “Best Soloist” awards for seniors Harry Daubitz and Angelica Elkema. Additionally, they won their first Grand Championship at Mount Pleasant’s “Music in Motion,” which is the first grand championship the show choirs have won since 2011. Now that this season has come to a close, directors and underclassmen are getting ready for next year. “My hopes and aspirations for next year are to have a team that always works hard, reflects a positive attitude, and helps each other develop the talents God has given them,” Xuberance director Mrs. Jaclyn Hussey said. “By the end of the season, I want to develop a show with Xuberance, the combo, and the techies that we can sincerely be proud of, and I hope we always

have fun performing it together.” Show choir clinics and auditions for the upcoming season will be held during the week of May 19.

The seniors pose for a picture together before their final show. Mrs. Johnson Photo.

Ashley Pudil A&E Assistant Editor Olson Brothers’

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Randall J. Olson

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Phone 319-377-5877 Fax 319-377-1773 rjo4307@hotmail.com

A&E

April 10, 2014

FINE ARTS TRAVEL OVER BREAK While some students traveled to sun and sand over spring break, Xavier Drama Director Mr. Mike Cervantes took 18 students and five chaperones to experience New York City. Additionally, Xavier Choir Directors Mr. Matt Walker and Mrs. Jaclyn Hussey and the Voce chamber choir traveled to Chicago for their annual Voce Tour. Here’s a look at the highlights!

N E W Y O R K C H I C A G O

MARCH 24

• • Departed for New York • Toured Rockefeller • City Center and Radio City • Spent the afternoon in Music Hall Times Square • Newsies clinic with Disney • • Attended Phantom of the Teaching Artists • Opera • Attended Newsies

• Departed for Chicago • Spent the afternoon working with Dr. Craig Arnold (Manhattan Chorale Director) and National Festival Chorus

Toured Lincoln Center Spent the afternoon in Central Park Visited Strawberry Fields and Bethesda Fountain Attended Matilda

• Sightseeing at the Statue of Liberty • Visited World Trade Center Site and 9/11 Memorial • Departed back to CR

APRIL 1

• Rehearsed with National • Sound check with Dr. Festival Chorus Arnold • Voce rehearsal • Performed at Orchestra • Performed at 4th Hall with Manhattan Presbyterian Church Chorus during the evening • Reception

• Sightseeing at the Museum of Science and Industry • Visited Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium • Departed back to CR

Ashley Pudil A&E Assistant Editor

Denise Pudil, Kayla Thompson, Mrs. Hussey, and Mr. Walker Photos. Kermit and Florence Alveshere Alan Anton Joan and Peter Bailey Bryan Banowetz Jim and Judy Bauer Linda Bauer Kenneth and Rosemary Bauer Doug and Char Boe Sandra Boe Dorrance and Shirley Brady Mark and Janice Brady Scott and Tammie Brady Jill Breitbach Lora Breitbach Hannah Brown Lydia and Mike Brown Chris and James Bryant Cassie Busch Larry and Marjory Bushaw Anna Busse Jeff and Michele Busse Monica Busse Colleen Camp Bill Christianson Matt and Tracie Chute Mr and Mrs Robert Chute Mindy and Gary Coleman Jane and Rob Collins Morty and Mona Lisa Cooksey Clark and Kathy Cunningham Carol and Pat Deignan Mike and Karen Delaney Dave and Laura Diebold Dave and Melissa Dostal

Jan and Mike Drahozal Joe and Kelly Drahozal Dave and Polly Draker Nicole Draker Bill and Lu Efting Jim and Liz Efting Ryan Ekland Tom and Terry Ekland Steve and Kay Elliott Carl and Carol Esker Mike and Jody Esker Tracie Fabiano Jake and Theresa Fanhle Doug Feltes Jack and Micki Fenske Jim and Linda Fenske Jenny and Jeff Frieden Mike Frieden Dick Galligan Gene and Betty Gerke Julie and Joe Gerke Michael Graeve Tracy Graeve Mike and Kathy Gravel Diane Hansen Paul and Bryn Hayes Tracie and Brian Hazelett Dutch and Ock Herrig Laura M Herrig Mike and Wendy Herrig John and Sasha Hoffman Marvin and Linda Hoffman Mike and Courtney Hoffman Allyson Hovda

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Sports

Xavier High School

Soccer training starts New coaches, new team The Xavier soccer teams’ pre-season practices are underway two weeks before their first regular season game. Both teams started conditioning one week prior to spring break as the coaches tried to ease their players into daily practices. The girls’ team was encouraged to attend a University of Iowa soccer camp held March 17-20 to enhance conditioning. Meanwhile, the boys’ team started morning and after school workouts the week before break. The senior girls, Marisa Berutti, Holly Hazelton, Sarah Peot, and Marinna Schroud have all been working out offseason in preparation for spring. “I’ve been working out the past couple of months, mainly conditioning and strength training,” Berutti said. “Some of my teammates and I have gotten together to run.” These extra conditioning sessions are vital to continue the girls’ success from last year’s championship. “There is always the pressure to win,” Peot said. “You don’t want to be known as the team that didn’t win a championship after eight years. We are just trying to do everything we can to ensure success.” As for the boys, senior Jeremy Jacoby is looking forward

this upcoming season. “This season is going to be awesome, because I’m a senior this year,” Jacoby said. “However, it is bittersweet knowing that this is my last year to experience the Xavier soccer program as it has been incredible so far.” The boys’ team also trained early and independently for this season. “The remaining varsity players from last year’s team put together an indoor team to compete in leagues and tournaments during the off-season,” Jacoby said. The boys played at the Jamboree at Kingston Stadium April 3. The game was played for only one half and does not count towards the regular season. The Saints lost to Cedar Rapids Kennedy, 3-0. The girls Jamboree was played April 7. The Saints tied Cedar Rapids Prairie, 0-0. The girls’ first regular season game will be played against the Iowa City High Trojans April 10. The boys’ team will travel to Iowa City on April 11 to take on the Trojans.

The Saints’ tennis teams have experienced big changes for this season after searching for two new coaches for several months. After both the boys’ and girls’ coaches left the program last year, administration hired Jim Potts for the boys and Matt Foxhoven for the girls. “We have some big shoes to fill,” Coach Potts said. “I’m expecting them (the boys) to show up to practice with a winning attitude and to work hard throughout the season. From what I’ve seen so far, we are well on our way.” The boys are returning varsity players senior Kyle D’Mello and junior Ben Curley. The girls’ team returns seniors Kylie DeWees and Emma Deignan and juniors Allison Jasper, Claire Bouchard, and Jeanne Bouchard. “I heard from many people that I was getting a great group of girls to work with,” Coach Foxhoven said. “They are very talented and willing to put in the effort to be the best they can.” Xavier is the first experience with high school tennis for both coaches. Coach Foxhoven played competitively in high school and with United States Tennis Association travel teams. Coach Potts played Shannon Mulcahey leisurely in high school and Sports Editor briefly at Luther College.

Junior Allison Jasper practices on the Xavier tennis courts in preparation for a meet. Meghan Gerke Photo. Both coaches are looking to hang banners this year from state. This goal is also shared by their players. “Coach Foxhoven knows we had success last year,” DeWees said, “but he challenges us even more this year to win team state, which would be the first in Xavier history. With the girls on the team, their work ethic, team chemistry, and positivity, I know we can get it done.” Challenge matches will be going on in the next weeks to determine the varsity and junior varsity teams. Katherine Bauer Copy Editor

Boston Marathon security increases As the anniversary of the April 15, 2013 Boston Marathon bombing approaches, new security measures are brought about to ensure the bombings of last year do not occur at the 2014 Boston Marathon. Annually held on Patriot’s Day, the event will be on April 21. At the marathon last year, two pressure cooker bombs exploded near the end of the race. One of the suspects, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 20, has pleaded not guilty to being involved in the bombings. One of the biggest security measures the city is adding is the presence of at least 3,500 police officers, which is about twice as many as last year. The increased security is brought about after the bombing left 260 people injured and three dead. Also, new guidelines this year are being implemented. Attendees of the event are urged to not bring bags, backpacks, rolling bags, or coolers. People’s belongings are subject to being searched by officials. The recommendation is to bring personal belongings in a clear plastic bag, as the items are easy to view. Spectators and runners

Chaos erupts at the Boston Marathon, April 15, 2013 after the first of two bombs explodes. Boston Globe Photo. are not allowed to wear bulky clothing or wear any masks. “Bandits,” unregistered runners, are not allowed to enter the event this year. The expected number of runners is up 9,000 from last year. The predicted number for this year is 36,000 with one million spectators expected to show up. Shannon Mulcahey Sports Editor

April 10, 2014

Sports

Famous Family Ties

The following Xavier students have family ties to players who are on either a notable college or professional team. Below are their thoughts.

Ashley Gase (‘15) “I get to go to Joey’s races during the summer to give him support. It’s also fun because I get to see new places around the U.S.”

Adam McDermott (‘15) “It’s been really inspirational watching Doug achieve so much, and it’s also gonna be very exciting seeing him in the NBA draft later this year.”

Kasey Vanden Bosch (‘14) “It’s pretty cool that my cousin plays in the NFL. The only time it really affects me is if someone asks me about him.”

Mitch Keller (‘14) “It’s very inspiring that my brother plays pro baseball because one of my goals is to play professional baseball like him.”

Joey Gase NASCAR

Doug McDermott Creighton Bluejays

Kyle Vanden Bosch Retired from Detroit Lions

Jon Keller Minor League for the Baltimore Orioles

Siblings

Cousins

Information: Shannon Mulcahey, Photos: Shannon Mulcahey and Google Images

Rainy weather becomes aWith hurdle for track season the season getting into full swing, the Xavier track team is trying to continue its first successes of the season with strong performances from individuals and the team as a whole. The Saints competed in indoor meets for the first part of their season to prepare for the outside portion. The Saints’ outdoor season has been somewhat delayed by the weather with meets on March 25 and March 28 over spring break cancelled, both due to bad weather. The meet on Tuesday, April 1 was also cancelled. The cold weather has caused the Saints to practice inside on some occasions to prevent injuries to the runners. Despite conditions, they have been pushing through and working hard to get better. The boys and girls finished up the indoor meets on March 17 and March 18. While the girls competed at the ISU Indoor Monday, the boys competed at the MVC Indoor held at the UNI Dome, and vice versa on the second day. Junior Noah Clasen placed second for the Saints in the 400 with a time of 53.35 seconds at the MVC meet. Senior Molly Breitbach placed fifth in the 60 meter dash in 8.27

“The weather during practices has been pretty nice. The warmer it is, the better we are able to run. As far the cancelled meets, it has given us the chance to practice instead which gives us the opportunity to be better prepared.” Shannon Mulcahey Photo.

seconds. Breitbach, senior Allison Schwach, junior Taylor Skala, and sophomore Sydney Oakley were on the 4 x 100 relay, which placed fifth in 53.24 seconds. “I’m really glad to be pushing through the grind with my teammates,” sophomore Nick Stark said. “I’m looking forward to getting outside to compete with the team and showing our skills.” The boys also competed April 4 in the Wilkinson Relays at Kingston Stadium. The girls ran at Kingston in the J -Hawk Relays on April 5. Morgan Breitbach Sports Assistant Editor

Siblings

Bertsch looks forward to golf future at University of Northern Iowa

The golf season is here for the Xavier Saints team. One future collegiate golfer, Maddie Bertsch, hopes to start off the season well. Bertsch enters this coming season after signing her National Letter of Intent to play college golf at The University of Northern Iowa. “Playing golf in high school has helped me learn the team aspect of golf,” Bertsch said. “It also has helped me keep my competitive drive and has forced me to be mentally tough. Next year, I want to keep improving my game and contribute as much as I can to the UNI golf team.” She added a first team all conference recognition in the Mississippi Valley Conference to her achievements last year. Bertsch also helped her team on a long journey to the state tournament. The team won the

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regional qualifier at Pine Oak Golf Course in Manchester. They then added a runner up finish at state which was held at Ames Golf Course. Bertsch, along side senior Grace Winker, will make their last opening meet walk on the links tonight at Airport National Golf Course. Daniel Vega Sports Writer

Backpage Miles Sullivan ‘14 Mitchell Young ‘16

“You just have to be really smooth. Unbelievably smooth. Be a little persuasive. I like to present myself in a positive stance and make strong eye contact.” “Well, you have to be outgoing and feel comfortable saying hello, shaking their hand, and making eye contact. You have to be interested in them and really want to get to know them.”

“I put a milkshake in my yard.”

Sydney Wright ‘15

“You have to be funny around them and make them laugh. Don’t take things too seriously.” Addy Hoffman ‘17

“I just try to be myself! Crazy and loud. It will either scare them or they like it.”

Nick Drahozal ‘17

“I try to make them laugh and be weird.”

How to get a guy’s attent ion

Abby Watson ‘14

“You gotta have a good book full of jokes, drop a one liner, get them laughing, and then you’re set.”

“You just have to give them a wink.”

Lauren Durin ‘16

April 10, 2014

Noah Clasen ‘15

Ho w to ge t a gi rl’s at te nt io n

Page Design: Jenna Fenske Information: Mary Esker Photos: Mary Esker, iClipart