February 28

February 27, 2014 Volume 16, Issue 10

Tarzan

swings through

Xavier

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 Amanda Wymore

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

ValLimar Jansen inspires Xavier Everyone has their own way of talking to God. Whether it’s saying a quick prayer in the morning or kneeling down before going to bed, all are ways to get to know God better. There is a saying that singing a song is like praying twice, and for gospel singer ValLimar Jansen, this is very true.

On February 18, 2014 Jansen visited Xavier High School. Jansen is blessed with an extraordinary singing voice. Her gospel songs range from slow, sorrowful church songs to quick, upbeat jazz. She has a long history of singing sacred music, starting from the age of five. Jansen received most of her training in music and performance from Howard University in Washington, D.C. She holds professional degrees in the arts from California State University, San Bernardino and the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Jansen’s inspirational songs spread the message of God all over the world. Traveling to almost every continent, she enlightens the world not only with her music, but also

ValLimar Jansen shares her inspirational songs and stories with Xavier. Meghan Gerke Photo. with her upbeat personality. Her love for God and Catholicism inspires many to become not only better Christians, but also better people.

“If God is for us, who can ever be against us?” Jansen said. “If we live in the light of God, we carry that

Those walking through Xavier past the previously known Learning Media Center have been noticing a big change. The once quiet study area is now lively and talkative. The LMC, as it was cordially called, is now the Student Success Center.

The Center is open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. every weekday as a place to receive tutoring, academic help, tech support, and to collaborate with other students.

The plan for the conversion was devised by teachers Mr. Mike Goldsmith, Mr. Scott Schaub, Mrs. Jaclyn Richmond, Mrs. Kellie Wagner, librarian Ms. Dee

Davis, principal Tom Keating, and vice principal Angela Olson.

They began meeting in November to discuss their vision to make the library a more modern, friendly environment.

“We want to change the culture of study halls, deficiencies, and how students get help,” Ms. Olson said. “Study hall was viewed as a punishment and not the effective method. We wanted to help students get their academics back on track.

We want this to be a place where we see and hear learning happening all the time. Our biggest source of feedback has been the XTrAs.”

Arts and Entertainment Writers Kayla Thompson Julie Woods Ben Valentine Daniel Vega

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

Backpage Editors Senior XTrA Emma Hunt (middle) assists juniors Dylan Eller and Nic Ekland in the new Student Success Center. Meghan Gerke Photo.

Business Tory Brown

Distribution Brennan Graeve

Advertising Olivia Rochford

The Xpress Bi-weekly Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 Volume 16 Issue 10

light around with us to everywhere we go. If we hide that light, we aren’t living the word of God. We must use everything He has given us to bring peace to this world.”

Jansen has worked with gospel writers and singers from all over the world. She has collaborated with some of the best-known songwriters and musicians in contemporary Catholic music, including Jaime Cortez, Bobby Fisher, Jesse Manibusan, and Danielle Rose.

She continues to spread her love of God with everyone she meets.

“I thought she was pretty awesome,” junior AnneMarie Smith said. “Her songs were very up-lifting and spiritual.”

Jansen is currently on tour traveling across the country.

Her next performance will be in Little River, South Carolina.

For more information about Jansen and her tour visit her website, afwmusic.com.

Erin Drahozal News Writer

Xavier embraces Student Success Center

Emma Hunt Arts and Entertainment Assistant Ashley Pudil

Jenna Fenske Anna White Backpage Assistant Mary Esker

Xavier High School

3905 Center Point Rd NE Cedar Rapids (319) 393-3736

The XTrAs are the new team created to help out in the Center.

The term is short for Xavier Teaching Assistants. They are students who have volunteered to be tutors in math, science, world language, and writing for all kinds of homework and test prep.

“I think it is important because it creates a really good support base for students,” junior XTrA Alea Challenger said.

Many more changes are coming to the Center besides the new attitude about study hall. The back area will change dramatically in the next few weeks as the bookshelves are rearranged. There are also plans to install floor to ceiling white boards for more collaboration and to modify tables with wheels for easier mobility.

However, those nostalgic for the old LMC have nothing to fear. There is a space for a quiet study area where the computer lab used to be. There is still the opportunity to come up from lounge for the study hall area, and books and resources are still available.

“Our goal is to continue to provide what we had and add to it,” Ms. Olson said. “Although we have a vision of what we would like to see happen, it will move slowly.”

Katherine Bauer Copy Editor

News

February 27, 2014

3

World marvels at Sochi Olympics As the Sochi Olympic Games wrapped up earlier this week, people around the world will be sure to remember the event for years to come due to its innumerable highs and lows that captured the attention of millions.

The games came to a rough start, as proposed terror attacks on the small coastal town of Sochi, Russia were a major threat. Many athletes and spectators felt a heightened sense of fear due to the foreboding threats. While no such attacks ever occurred, visitors told of many other horror stories present at Sochi It is reported that many hotel rooms in the area were never finished, sinkholes of up to 15 feet were scattered around the city, and stray dogs roamed the area while Russian officials worked to euthanize them. Among these problems, protests abounded due to Russia’s new anti-gay policy, and President Vladimar Putin’s $51 billion budget for the games was highly scrutinized, as it was the highest in history.

Despite these setbacks, the games progressed as planned.

The Americans came away with 28 medals, putting the team in second place for overall medals behind Russia with 33. Norway came in third with a total of 26.

In terms of gold medals, Russia again came in first place winning 13 and was trailed by Norway,

Canada, and the United States with 11, 10, and 9 golds, respectively.

Besides an impressive medal count, the Americans made history and shocked spectators with a few noteworthy wins coupled with a handful of disappointing defeats.

Successes include Meryl Davis and Charlie White winning gold in ice dancing, a first in U.S. Olympic history. 18-year-old Mikaela Shiffrin became the youngest slalom gold medalist. The U.S. did well in bobsled, with the women winning

a silver and bronze, and Steven Holcomb ending America’s 62 year medal drought in the two-man race.

Twelve of the U.S.’s medals came from snowboarding and freeskiing, where the team proved to be top-notch.

However, some of team USA’s most promising athletes failed to bring home the gold; olympians Shaun White, Bode Miller, Lindsay Jacobellis, and Shani Davis won a single bronze medal between them.

The Americans won no medals in speedskating, which was the first

American athletes present the flag during the Olympic opening ceremony on February 7 in Sochi, Russia. Google Images Photo.

time in 30 years. The men’s hockey team choked in the finals after showing potential in the preliminary rounds and failed to medal.

American athletes were faced with tremendous expectations following the successful Vancouver Olympics in 2010 where they won a record setting 37 medals.

However, the 2014 games should not be discredited too easily. “[The medal count] is indicative that things are alive and well in the United States,” chief executive of the United States Olympic Committee Scott Blackmun said.

“I don’t think it’s a step back at all.”

The Sochi Games said farewell to the 2,800 athletes and came to a close on February 23. The Olympic flag was handed off to the mayor of Pyeongchang, South Korea, which will host the winter games in February 2018.

Maria Efting News Editor

American Heart Month protects vital organ

The number one killer in the United States claims 600,000 lives annually. It is responsible for a quarter of all deaths, inflicting $300 billion worth of medical expenses on Americans. This deadly problem is cardiovascular disease.

February is the month to care for the heart.

Cardiovascular disease is a three-headed monster of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Heart disease, the leading killer, is normally caused by plaque buildup in arteries of those with unhealthy lifestyles. Plaque from years of greasy hamburgers and salty french fries eventually cut off blood flow. A heart attack may result, leaving the victim dead or wishing they had taken healthy steps to prevent the United

States’ most deadly disease.

The American Heart Association’s branch in Hiawatha has plans to put the squeeze on heart disease.

“This year we are working to prevent and reduce obesity, promote public funding for heart disease and stroke programs, and strengthen tobacco control initiatives,” AHA of Eastern Iowa said. Exercising and avoiding smoking are smart ways to strengthen the heart.

Another facet of American Heart Month is heart defects.

Congenital heart disease is the number one birth defect. Each year it appears in 40,000 children.

Hailey Steimel of Prairie High School was suffering from this condition. The good news

is Steimel received a new heart on Valentine’s Day. Following Hailey’s heart transplant, she contracted a lung infection.

The infection seems to be responding well to a variety of antibiotics. Hailey will remain sedated and on a ventilator until her body recovers.

Hailey’s condition continues to improve at the University of Iowa.

Xavier got involved with her fight by displaying an uplifting “Hope 4 Hailey’s Heart” banner while the Saints played Prairie in football last fall.

A strong heart is the reward for a lifetime of maintaining low body weight and high nutrition.

Healthy eating is crucial in fighting cardiovascular disease.

Munching fiber instead of fats lowers cholesterol. Avoiding

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salt drops blood pressure. A nutritious diet paired with exercise ensures the heart will beat long into old age.

Tyler Testin HOSA Member

4

Opinion

Xavier High School

Carpe Diem: don’t waste a second I was in a hurry to get to a wake for one of my friend’s relatives. I didn’t notice how my windows were iced over from the inside except for my windshield until I got into my car. I could faintly see through them, but not well enough. I should have tried to scrape them, but I wanted to be there on time. I didn’t know the area of Cedar Rapids very well, and I was making my way closer to the funeral home.

As I approached my destination, I couldn’t see where I was supposed to enter into the parking lot. I started to turn left but couldn’t tell if the

street was a one way or not. It was.

I tried getting back on track and was in oncoming traffic for a few seconds, praying as quickly as I could that the cars would see me and stop.

Fortunately, it was not very busy, and the cars saw me. I merged back onto the road and found my way into the home. I sat in the parking lot and was in shock about what had happened. I took my life for granted, and God gave me a second chance. Now how can I repay Him for the gift of life He has given me?

If you knew you only had a year left to live, what would you do?

How would you act? What would be most important to you? Life is not a guarantee, and every second is a blessing from God. Life should be

lived in a state of joy and enthusiasm.

We can’t take one breath for granted.

So how can we live our lives without wasting a second? 1) Live your faith. Work at your faith. Love others and God without limits.

2)Keepyourfamily members close. 3) Be thankful for what you have and be optimistic. 4) Say “yes” to things you have always wanted to do. 5) Mend the broken relationships you have with friends or family members; don’t leave things left unsaid.

Do things that are wholesome and things that will bring you fulfillment. To be fulfilled is to know what God’s calling you to do and be, then seeking that out and living it out daily. Make an effort to keep a good attitude; life is too short to be

From the ITBS to ITEDS, the ACT and SAT, every student has to experience the childhood trauma that is standardized t e s t i n g .

In elementary school, we used to be bribed with snacks like Fruit by the Foot and granola bars between tests to try and ease the side effects of the consecutive, long lasting tests.

Now in high school, we try and relax our nerves as we enter the testing room knowing that it will have a huge effect on our future. After all of this, our results are mailed to us, and our knowledge is compared to the rest of the kids in the nation

based on a few hours of testing.

Standardized tests have a huge effect on our futures and although we can retake them, some of us just don’t excel in the art that is filling in the correct bubble. You could be one of the smartest people in your school, but if you don’t test well, you might not earn the credit that you deserve. It’s great to hear people talk about their high scores, but it’s upsetting when you hear a person that you know to be quite intelligent shamefully admit a score that they are not proud of. Sitting in the loud lunch room everyday, the conversation of the ACT comes up quite often, and the stress that accompanies it almost always is conveyed by at least one person.

It has also been proven that

schools limit their curriculum to accommodate the subjects that are on these tests.

As little kids and even high schoolers, it is extremely important to be introduced to many subjects to help guide us towards something we will enjoy doing in the future.

We should have the opportunity to explore different aspects of the learning experience instead of worrying about taking classes that will help us complete one test. Although these tests are an important tool in class placement and college applications, we should remember to develop ourselves in what we love and understand that one test does not define who we are.

negative all the time. You were put on this Earth for a reason. Your life is worth something. Live it accordingly.

Tomorrow is not a guarantee.

Your time on this Earth is precious and can’t be wasted. Laugh until you cry. Spend time with people that love you. Have a strong relationship with God. Don’t sweat the small stuff.

Care for others. Give compliments.

Live a life that changes the world for the better. I will pose you with one final question and challenge. If today was your last, would you be at peace with where you are at right now?

Ben Valentine Opinion Writer

Break the bubble barrier

Saintly

Maddy Bailey Opinion Writer

Faith is a journey; start now after my confirmation retreat at St. Joe’s, I became conscious of the fact I didn’t really know what I believed in. I knew I had to do something.

Let me tell you, it takes an enormous amount of effort to figure out what you believe and what you don’t. I’ve fallen many times and been stuck back at the beginning. Is God really there? You have to ask yourself the tough questions, and you have to make yourself answer them. Right now, I’m still working, and I have a wide group of people helping me, even if they don’t realize it.

So get going, Saints. Start (or keep) working on your faith. Keep an open mind. Going to Mass or retreats are great ways to get your faith going.

St. Joe’s has tons of retreats all year round just for high schoolers.

There are plenty of resources, too.

Many people are willing to help you with this quest; you’re not alone. And don’t forget to pray.

“I am still far from being what I want to be, but with God’s help I shall succeed.” -Vincent Van Gogh

Katherine Bauer Copy Editor

Satanly <

the same. They’re meant to unite us and give us structure. Faith is what you personally believe in.

That’s what makes us different.

My quest for you is to find out what you believe. Who is God to you? Do you believe in what Jesus did? Do you really think He’s in that little host? If you’re not up to that level yet, it’s okay. We’re all at different spots. If those questions are too big, go even simpler. Start at the beginning; build your faith up.

This quest isn’t meant to take a few days. No, it’s meant to take your whole life! Your faith will continually change as you grow closer or farther away from God. The journey isn’t perfect. You will fall away at times.

When we feel like God is the farthest away, He’s usually the closest.

In my roughly three years at Xavier, I have seen so many people grow exponentially in their faith, including myself. My freshman year, I can honestly say I had no faith.

I knew the answers the theology teachers wanted, because I had been giving them for 11 years. I didn’t really believe what I said. I didn’t really believe in God, let alone have a personal relationship with Him. But

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There is a wide variety of things people think should be done before graduating high school: good grades, trying out for the play, a relationship, scoring a crucial basket.

But what about developing and keeping your faith?

Before you zone out like you might in class, hear me out. We go to a Catholic school where we are surrounded by our faith everyday in prayer, symbols, and gestures. Sometimes it can seem a little overwhelming when you think about. Or maybe you feel like theology class isn’t really that practical. We’ve heard some things over and over again, and we all know the generic “Jesus loves me” answer to theology questions.

But what is it all really about?

I don’t have the answer to that question. That’s why we’re here at this school, to figure out what theology is trying to tell us.

Religions aren’t cookie cutters.

They’re not trying to make us all

February 27, 2014

Opinion

5

Ordinary people being extraordinary Who is your hero? Is it Beyonce, because, well... she’s Beyonce?

Do you admire the professional sports player who never loses a game? These types of people are great and are worthy of being admired, but they are not my definition of a hero. In today’s society, I think we tend to only admire people who are “heroes” in the public eye and tend to overlook ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

In our society, there are so many people doing wonderful things, but we brush their achievements by because they aren’t making headlines. There are heroes every day that we fail to see. What about when Nic Ekland helped a girl up who fell down the stairs? That’s pretty heroic to me! Or what about the seniors who made baked goods

He has shown me a lot this past year how to be the bigger person and move on. He may be young, but in my eyes, he’s well beyond his years.

I’m not saying that your hero can’t be someone famous or revered in the public eye. If you admire them, that’s great! My point is, don’t forget about the ordinary people who do pretty extraordinary things: those who hold the the door open when coming into school or make conversation with someone who Quinlan and her younger brother, Regan pose for a photo. is sitting alone at lunch. Be the Mike Moran Photo. hero in someone’s mundane day, to raise money for Kids Against As odd as it may sound, my and I can guarantee that you will Hunger? They are creating small hero is not anyone older than get that warm fuzzy feeling inside. waves of change that can lead to me nor a famous person, but it’s bettering the lives of so many. actually my 13-year-old brother.

How about the upperclassmen “Why,” you ask? Why would who helped an underclassmen I admire a 13-year-old middle jump their car in the bitter school boy who I have to deal cold? They remind me of a with everyday? Because he Quinlan Moran superhero for standing out pushes me to be a better person.

Editor-in-Chief in the negative 20 degree Regan teaches me humility weather to help someone else. and how to deal with change.

Mutual respect necessary

C o m i n g into Xavier as a freshman, I knew exactly what it meant to be a Pom. I knew there was slim to no recognition and barely anyone really knew what we did. I knew we would never get the recognition of the football team or the turnout they did at a basketball game.

Honestly, this never really bothered me. I knew dance was all I wanted to do, and it was for no one but myself that I was choosing to participate in the Pom Squad. However, the treatment of the Poms reached an all-time low, and the school that I love so much has really let me down.

As most of you may know, we recently took our fourth trip in school history to Orlando, Florida for UDA Nationals. I’m not quite sure if people don’t understand that this is a competition for the best teams in the nation or if they just genuinely care that little. I don’t mean to be that girl, but this is a big deal! I’ve seen an unbelievable amount of dance in my life, and nothing compares to some of the teams we saw down there. We put a lot of effort into not only qualifying, but in competing our best when we got there. I’ve been on teams, not just dance teams, and the practices we had before nationals were some

Hall Talk “IT’S S’CUTE!” s an to be h i ad ove t’d wit n m a I “C ld a. but ou ctc a, .” h s ar ad ns i n t An Ca ngu ke pe li

The Poms go out to dinner in the Magic Kingdom and stop for smiles in front of the castle. Kelli Breitbach Photo. of the hardest ones I’ve ever been to.

This is not just the Poms’ issue, Our team kicked our own butts, and either. It’s time that this school not only did we have to ask for our started recognizing and caring own send-off, but when we did, the about everyone’s activities, not just students cheered louder for pajama a set few. We are the people in the day rather than for our hard work. stands on Friday nights, we are the When we were in Florida, we people cheering you on, we are the were repeatedly made fun of and people crying at the UNI Dome chastised for posting pictures. I for the championship game. Why don’t know if people were new can’t the support be reciprocated? to following me, but I post a lot of pictures on a regular basis anyway. I don’t remember anyone getting mad at a person posting tons of photos on vacation or people angry at teammates posting photos of each other. So why Morgan Noonan are the Poms treated differently?

Opinion Editor

“Sorry I forgot you existed.”

“Sh han e cla ds ps lau when her ghs ... she ”

“On Wednesdays we wear sweaters.”

Student Life

Xavier High School

Maddie Wessels ‘15

I have been working at Theisens on 16th Avenue for five months.

My favorite part of the job is my coworkers. They are fun and easy to get along with. It is kind of like a big family. They make work enjoyable. I also like being able to wear jeans and cowboy boots to work everyday.

KJ Giles ‘16

I work at Mathnasium, and I help the kids with their math homework. I really like being with them, and they are a lot of fun.

Clancy Haase ‘14

6

Cassie Ruhd ‘14 I work at Cottage Grove Place.

It is an indepednet living and retirement home. I have worked there a little over a year, and I am a server and waitress in their restaurant.

I like hearing about the stories that the residents tell of their past lives.

Xavier’s

Workforce Adam & Andrew Steffensmeier ‘15

I teach gymnastics at Twisters.

I’ve worked there for about a year and a half. I’ve had to clean up almost every form of bodily fluid, but I love to work with the little kids. They always have something funny to say.

Allie Hennings ‘15

We have worked at Peck’s Garden Center for about a year now. We really like selling Christmas trees. Usually we have to move plants around all day. We like our coworkers the most because we are a huge family.

I have worked at Hiawatha Day School for about nine months. I love that I get to pick the activities to do with the kids since I have 16 kindergarteners to myself. I will never forget the time a grandma of one of the kids came to pick them up, and one of my other trouble makers yelled, “It smells like grandma in here!”

Nolan Armstrong ‘16

Editor: Brady Hoffman Assistant Editor: Julie Woods Photos submitted by Mrs. Wagner, Allie Hennings, Nolan Armstrong, Maddie Wessels, Clancy Hasse

I have worked at Hy-Vee since August of last year. I like the “There’s a helpful smile in every aisle” slogan, because that is now me. I am a courtesy clerk.

Mini-Feature

February 27, 2014

Transformation Thursday

7

Check out the Xpress seniors during their glory days of middle school.

Middle School

Ashley Pudil

Quinlan Moran

Emma Hunt

Shannon Mulcahey

Rachel Brady

Colette Miller

Chloe Streif

Maria Efting

Ben Valentine

Mary Carol Esker

Molly Vipond

Hannah Chute

Anna White

Daniel Vega

Morgan Noonan

Brennan Graeve

Meghan Gerke

Jenna Fenske

Voted Cutest Tween: Ben Valentine and Jenna Fenske Olivia Rochford

High School

Voted Most Changed: Anna White and Chloe Streif

Design by: Molly Vipond and Rachel Brady

Feat

8 February 27, 2014 03/13/2014: Auburn Hills, MI (Palace of Auburn Hills) 03/14/2014: Rosemont, IL (Allstate Arena) 03/16/2014: Omaha, NE (CenturyLink Center Omaha)

Natalie Rozek‘14

“Justin Moore is coming to the U.S. Cellular Center March 28. His music is relatable and easy to have a good time with, which is why I can’t wait to see him live.”

03/18/2014: St. Paul, MN (Myth) 03/19/2014: Chicago, IL (Riviera Theatre) 3/21/2014: Milwaukee, WI (The Rave) 3/22/2014: Detroit, MI (The Fillmore

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Grouplove

03/20/2014: Cincinnati, OH (Bogarts) 03/21/2014: Indianapolis, IN (Egyptian Room at Old National Centre)

“I’m going to see Miley because she is different and has a unique way of making music so you never know what to expect from her. Her concert is March 10 in St. Paul, Minnesota.”

Page Editor: Anna White Pictures and Information: Colette Miller

Joseph Mulangaliro‘14 03/18/2014: Waukengan, IL (Genesee Theatre) 03/20/2014: Winnipeg, Canada (Burton Cummings Theatre)

“I went to concert la and I’m se again Apr City. His music is e and vibra enjoyable to.”

ture

Xavier High School

Hannah Zwanziger ‘17 “I saw Luke Bryan February 7 at the UNI Dome in Cedar Falls. I listen to his music everyday so it was awesome seeing him perform live. It was amazing.”

Lucero Vega ‘15

“I went to a Macklemore concert in January in Des Moines. He told a story before he sang each song which was really cool!”

o a G-Eazy ast year eeing him ril in Iowa type of energetic ant. He’s e to listen

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06/15/2014: Grand Rapids, MI (Van Andel Arena) 06/18/2014: Auburn Hills, MI (Palace of Auburn Hills) 06/21/2014: St. Paul, MN (Xcel Energy Center) 06/23/2014: Omaha, NE (CenturyLink Center)

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Maria Efting ‘14

“I’m going to see Lorde March 18th in Chicago because her sound is really unique. She’s so young and successful and not the typical figure of the music industry.”

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14 CERTS l u k e

03/27/2013: Omaha, NE (CenturyLink Center) 05/31/2014: Cuyahoga Falls, OH (Blossom Music Center) 07/25/2014: Columbus, OH (Celeste Center) 04/09/2014: Chicago, IL (Cadillac Palace) 04/10/2014: Elizabeth, IN (Horseshoe Casino) 05/06/2014: Omaha, NE (Holland Performing Arts Center)

9

Health & Lifestyle

10

Xavier High School

Home Fix-ITs Many people have been put in a situation where they do not know how to take care of a home problem on their own. With these easy home fix it tips, anyone will now be able to properly change a door knob or replace a windshield wiper blade in no time!

How to change a Doorknob Tools needed:

Phillips screwdriver Hammer Block of scrap wood

Directions:

1. Make sure that the door is open. Prop it open while replacing the doorknob. Note: if the door closes with only the plunger in, the door will be a pain to open.

2. Unscrew the doorknob. On locking doorknobs, the screws are always on the side that doesn’t have the keyhole.

3. Remove the doorknob. It should come apart into two halves, one from each side of the door.

4. Remove the plunger by sliding a screwdriver through the inside and pulling. It should slide out of the hole on the side of the door.

5. Insert new plunger. Place a block of wood over it when you hammer it in.

6. Insert both halves of doorknobs. Make sure lock is on desired side.

7. Screw the two halves together.

A screwdriver through the plunger. Grab both ends and pull towards yourself.

The male half in the door. See how it is positioned in and around the plunger.

This is what the male half of the doorknob looks like.

There are two prongs on the female half that go around the threads for the screw on the male half.

How to Change a Windshield Wiper Materials:

Driver’s Manual New Blades

Directions: A windshield wiper arm. The hook is what the wiper blade will attach.

The connector on a windshield wiper. This is what attaches to the hook

A good example of windshield wipers in the up position.

This is also a good idea when snow or freezing rain is on the way.

1. Check your driver’s manual to see what kind of wiper blades you need to buy. (Some big stores have books with the make and model and what kind of windshield wiper you need.)

2. Put your windshield wipers in the up position.

3. Push the tabs on the wiper blade to slide it off. Repeat for the other blade.

4. Slide the new blade into place. It should click. Make sure that the right blade goes on the right wiper and the left blade on the left wiper.

The finished product. Total time: less than three minutes.

Page design and information by Jeff Frieden and Hannah Chute. Images by Jeff Frieden and AP images.

February 27, 2014

A&E

11

A&E Xavier High School Jazz band competes at state Mystery Actor: Tarzan edition 12

and many other new faces, the band has made tremendous progress throughout the year.

“They will likely turn out to be the best jazz band I’ve seen here if they keep working like they are now,” Ms. Swehla said.

Their next competition is the NEIBA District Jazz Festival on Saturday, March 8.

Sophomore Rachel Clarke plays the baritone saxophone at practice.

Madsy Richards Photo.

The Children’s Theater production of Tarzan took place on February 12-15. Try to guess which actor from the play was interviewed below:

Q: How many Xavier productions have you been a part of?

A: This was my third Xavier show.

Q: What character did you play in Tarzan?

A: I was Clayton, the villain.

Q: Did you do anything special to get ready for the play?

A: The mustache that I wore for the production was not actually a prop. I had been sporting a gentleman’s beard for the past 3 months, and when casting came out, Mr. C asked me if I would shave everything except the ‘stache and I did.

Answer: Bryce Volk

Winter delays have been forcing many activities to delay their practices and competitions, and the Xavier Jazz Ensemble is no exception. Despite the State Jazz Band Festival, their first competition of the year, being postponed twice, the Ensemble walked away from the competition with a division II (excellent) rating on February 12.

This is the best rating they have gotten since the 2010-11 season.

“We performed very well, and I am very happy with that,” band director Ms. Kelli Swehla said. “There are still many things to improve and we will continue making improvements throughout the next few weeks.”

Competition is not the only thing the band has been up to.

Recently, they professionally recorded the song “Sweet Magnolias” with saxophone player Rod Pierson for the Corridor Jazz Project. This project is designed to educate band students in the area about jazz music and give them the opportunity to record a song under professional direction.

“It was probably the best we ever played as an ensemble,” junior Jacob Hansen said. “He [Pierson] really knows how to rock out. It was a pleasure to accompany him.”

Ms. Swehla said that despite having nine freshmen

Kayla Thompson A&E Writer

Poms host their kiddie camp

Comics with Keefe

Xavier High School hosted their annual Kiddie Pom Camp on Saturday, February 15 in the RonThillen gymnasium. Girls from the Xavier Catholic elementary schools were invited to learn dances and have a good time hanging out with the Xavier Pom Squad.

The girls broke out the pink pom poms for this special occasion and let the girls try dancing with them. The younger girls watch the This event allows the young girls get Poms perform a routine. a look into what it’s like to be part Nick Ireland Photo. of the award winning Xavier Pom Squad and helps influence them to try out when they reach high school.

Senior Pom Mary Esker’s sister, Anna Esker, was one of the fifteen girls who participated in the event.

“It was fun because there was snack time, we got to perform Julie Woods our dance, and I met people A&E Writer from other schools.” Anna said.

High Expectations Emma Keefe Comic Artist

A&E

February 27, 2014

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Art Club timeline November 2013: Post-it note murals Students created four murals out of neon postit notes and hung them in the hallways of Xavier. Each mural was of each member of the administration: Mr. Keating, Ms. Olson, Mr. Glynn, and Father Vu.

Words of Relationship Wisdom With Emma Hunt

December 2013: Christmas Party As part of their Christmas celebration, Art Club hosted a party that included a gingerbread house making contest. This year, the seniors were crowned the winners.

January 2014: Catholic Schools Week The club designed and painted three murals for the all-school mass in January.

They also painted the Xavier square of a large poster, which all Xavier Catholic schools contributed to.

NEW! February 2014: Packaging tape sculptures “The sculptures will be of both teachers and students at Xavier.

The student sculptures will be hung in the LMC sometime during the next two weeks,” senior Jacob Herndon (left) said.

Mrs. Wagner, Meghan Gerke, and Zach Klimesh 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

Ashley Pudil A&E Assistant Editor

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

Hey, everyone! I’ve received a couple of emails, which is great, but I know there are more than a few people at this school who could ask for help. I won’t bite!

I’ve decided to share this email for this issue of

The Xpress, because I know a lot of us high schoolers suffer from a lack of confidence when it comes to dating, myself included.

I hope this helps!

If you have any more questions, email me at emma.hunt@beasaint.org.

If you really are willing to help, I’d enjoy some advice, possibly some tips, on how to get a date for prom. I’m kind of nervous, asking a girl and all, and I need some tips. (I also kind of fear rejection.) Mostly, people seem to gloss over me.

They see me as just there and not really a part of anything. I feel alone on a daily basis, and honestly I feel like I’m not worthy. I’ve chased girls before, but it’s never gotten anywhere, and I feel that I will only fall flat on my face again.

If this girl is going to be more than just a date for prom, then it’s time to work up some confidence. Every person in the world is special in their own way (corny, but true) and I think it’s about time for everyone to start realizing it. Try talking to this girl, just casually (there’s no pressure) and build up a casual friendliness. If you build up the courage to ask her out, try to get her alone so you’ll be less nervous. Girls in our society are taught to be nice, so it’s not like she’ll turn you down before you even ask. Don’t be discouraged if she does turn you down, because there are seven billion people in this world, and one was made just for you. You just haven’t found her yet.

Emma Hunt A&E Editor

Dick and Pam Hunt Bob Boband andMary MaryTarbox TarboxNicholson Nicholson Virgil and Carlyn Hunt Makenzie MakenzieNoonan Noonan The Janney Family Mike MikeNoonan Noonan Cindy Jensen Steve Steveand andJanet JanetNoonan Noonan Jeanne Joens Nixie NixieOlderburg Olderburg John and Con Inc. Daniel DanielPape Pape Ray and Beth Kamin Chris Chrisand andRoberta RobertaPeters Peters Ray and Jan Kamin Powell PowellChiropractic Chiropractic Katy Karas Kevin Kevinand andDenise DenisePudil Pudil Kelli Kerton Rosie RosiePudil Pudil Gene and Sally Kopecky Ann Annand andDave DaveRichardson Richardson Ann and Tim Kortemeyer John JohnRichardson Richardson Mary Levett Tom Tomand andDianna DiannaRichardson Richardson Paula and Jim Levett Peyton PeytonRosencrants Rosencrants Dave and Sharon Loecher Denny Dennyand andKaran KaranRuzicka Ruzicka Doris Logel MrMrand andMrs MrsRichard RichardSaunders Saunders Dan and Donna Lynch Joe Joeand andBarb BarbSchmall Schmall Megan Lynch MrMrand andMrs MrsJason JasonSchmidt Schmidt Jeanne and Gerry MacEachernColleen Colleenand andRandy RandyScholer Scholer Brennan McAllister Mike Mikeand andMary MaryPat PatSchulte Schulte Bill and Mary Lou McCartan Don Donand andPatricia PatriciaSima Sima Kerry McCartan Maddie MaddieSmith Smith Will McCartan Hailey HaileySojka Sojka Father Tom McDermott Mairlynn MairlynnSonderman Sonderman Tom and Mary McGivern Becky Beckyand andBrad BradStovie Stovie Maureen and Jason McHugh Marisa Marisaand andRichard RichardSullivan Sullivan Liz Miller Dave Daveand andKaren KarenThinnes Thinnes Mr and Mrs Duane Miller Matthew MatthewThommanna Thommanna MobileDemand Wilma WilmaThompson Thompson Leo and Diane Monaghan Scott ScottThompson ThompsonFamily Family Ann Moran Fred Fredand andBev BevTimko Timko Julie Moran Tom TomTroester Troester Regan Moran Bev BevValant Valant John and Ruth Neuzil Douger Dougerand andAmers AmersValentine Valentine

Patrons

Mary Lou Valentine Abbe Vega Carlos and Amy Vega Domingo and Katie Vega Michael and Shelley Waldron Mike and Sue Waldron Jerry and Betty Weiland Jeff and Cheryl Westlund Anne White Terry and Janet Whitney Lynn and Lynn Woellert Corbin Woods Elizabeth Woods Gerald M. Woods Greg and Nancy Wymore James and Elizabeth Zook

If you’re interested in receiving The Xpress at your home, please contact Mrs. Kellie Wagner for more information. kellie.wagner@ xaviersaints.org

14

Sports

Xavier High School

Xavier wrestlers take on the state meet

Seniors Sean Ickes, Nick Drahozal and Cole Turner along with sophomore Clint Lembeck are Xavier’s 2014 wrestling state qualifiers. All the senior varsity wrestlers qualified for the state meet, making it a great way to end the season.

“These past winters are definitely something I’ll take with me the rest of my life,” Drahozal said.

The state wrestling meet started Thursday, February 20 with the first round, followed by quarterfinals and finals on Friday and ended with the final rounds on Saturday.

The Xavier wrestlers finished 11th out of 57 teams in class 3A. Turner finished third in the heavyweight division after losing his first-round match, but then came back in consolation rounds.

Lembeck finished fourth at 132 pounds, and Drahozal finished fifth at 145 pounds. Ickes beat his first-round match-up,

Senior Cole Turner flexes to the crowd after his over time win for third place on February 22 at the Wells Fargo Arena.

Meghan Gerke Photo. but lost in the quarterfinals, 4-2.

Turner, who started his wrestling career last year, qualified for state in the heavyweight division.

“The biggest influence on my wrestling career has been Nick

Drahozal, because he is the one who got me to go out for wrestling last season,” Turner said. “The biggest lesson I learned from wrestling was that the more work you put into it, the more you get out, and the same is true in life.”

Drahozal, who broke his older brother’s winning wrestling record, participated in his first state meet.

“The biggest influence was my brother, because I always wanted to be like him,” Drahozal said. “Once I got to Xavier, I always wanted to do what he did and then eventually surpassing what he did.”

The wrestling state meet marks the end of their high school wrestling careers for the three seniors.

“I’d like to thank God, my parents, family, coaches, teammates, and everyone that deals with me in the halls,” Drahozal said.

Shannon Mulcahey Sports Editor

Looking towards state Girls improve despite record As the regular season comes to an end, the Xavier boys’ basketball team looks to finish strong with a chance to push towards Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines for the state tournament.

Xavier has not had a team reach the state tournament in boys’ basketball since the 2006 team.

That team lost a first round match-up.

The coaches and players have high hopes for the playoffs.

“Coach Luehrsman and the rest of the coaching staff feel that we have a great chance at making it to the Well,” senior Matt Nelson said.

Xavier hosted a 3A district game against VintonShellsburg on February 24.

“I heard Vinton-Shellsburg was good. Other than that, I have not heard a whole lot,” Nelson said.

Xavier has not played any 3A schools this year besides MVC rival Dubuque Wahlert. Wahlert is a potential match-up for the Saints before going to Des Moines.

“We may have to play Dubuque Wahlert again, but

The boys huddle around Coach Luehrsman during a home game.

Amanda Wymore Photo. other than that, I think it would be a very cool experience to be the first team since 2006 to make it to the Well,” Nelson said.

The Saints finished the regular season last Friday at Iowa City High. The Saints won 69-44.

Daniel Vega Sports Writer

Often, to measure the amount of success a team has had, a quick look to the win/loss column will suffice. In the case of the Saints, their 10-11 record does not accurately depict their season going into the playoffs.

The Saints are one game under 500 after a grueling 5A schedule.

“The season has been tough, especially facing much bigger schools,” junior Claire Christianson said. “I’m really looking forward to playing schools our own size.”

As the girls entered their regional game on Saturday, February 22 against De Witt, they were coming with a fresh mindset.

“It’s a new ball game when post season comes around,” senior Hayley Deutmeyer said. “It doesn’t matter what happened in the regular season. Everybody is 0-0.”

Many girls on the Saints roster have experienced what it is like to make a special run.

“The 2013 playoff experience was magical. We all came together and decided we didn’t

want to go home empty handed,” Deutmeyer added. “We are really trying to replicate what we did last year, and hopefully our outcome will be the same.”

The Saints sputtered in their hopes to carry some momentum for post season play in a 49-38 defeat to Iowa City West.

Nic Ekland Sports Writer

Sports 15 Miller qualifies for state Durin represents Xavier at state February 27, 2014

The Xavier boys’ and girls’ bowling teams ended the 2013-2014 season 9-2 and 0-11 respectively. Junior Caleb Miller qualified for state for the second year in a row.

The boys are coming off one of their best seasons yet, and Miller is entering the postseason looking to repeat last year’s state title.

The girls have steadily improved all season after overcoming the obstacle of having the minimum number of girls on the team.

“The season was pretty fun,” freshman Tanya Zaugg said.

The final regular season meet saw Xavier matched up with Dubuque Whalert on February 11 at Cherry Lanes.

For the boys, Miller paced Xavier with a 430 series as the Saints topped the Eagles 2858­2348. Senior Zach Klimesh rolled a game high of 238. The girls dropped their match to Whalert 2311-­1902. Zaugg rolled the highest series for both teams with a 315.

“The seniors are a big help,” Zaugg said. “They are great people and great bowlers.”

Miller bowled a 482 series on February 18 at Muscatine and qualified for state. The team did not qualify as a whole. Klimesh

Xavier had one swimmer at the state meet on February 15.

Senior Nick Durin, who swims for Washington, qualified for the 100 breaststroke, 50 free, the 200 medley relay, and the 200 free relay. He helped Washington become second in the state behind Iowa City West.

“It’s a really cool atmosphere [at state],” Durin said.

Durin and his teammates came in third in the 200 freestyle relay. Prior to the meet, Durin was seeded ninth in the 100

breaststroke. He was able to cut more than a second off his best time to come in sixth and also helped in a fifth place finish in the 200 medley relay.

“Getting my fastest times was a great way to cap off my senior season,” Durin said.

Sophomore Mitch Anderson qualified for state as an alternate.

The state meet marks the end of the high school swim season.

Morgan Breitbach Sports Assistant Editor

Junior Caleb Miller practices for the state qualifying meet.

Shannon Mulcahey Photo.

placed fourth at qualifiers, but it was not enough to make it to state.

State bowling was held on Monday, February 24 in Des Moines.

Morgan Breitbach Sports Assistant Editor

Senior Nick Durin swims against Cedar Rapids Kennedy in a Washington home meet. Meghan Gerke Photo.

Guide to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics Final Medal Count

Have you watched any Sochi Winter Olympics events?

Yes No

85% 15% *307 Xavier students polled

Gold

Silver

Bronze

Total

Norway

11

5

10

26

Canada

10

10

5

25

USA

9

7

12

28

Netherlands 8

7

9

24

Russia

“My favorite winter olympic sport is the skeleton. I think it’s crazy how people trust themselves to race down a track in such a confined space and they know the risk of injuring themselves.”

-Stephen Jones ‘15

13

11

9

Design, information, and photo by Shannon Mulcahey

1843 Johnson Ave NW Cedar Rapids, IA

33

Backpage

16

February 27, 2014

THREE WORDS TO DESCRIBE ME How much can someone say about themselves in just three words?

Inspired by Good Morning America’s segment, “Your Three Words,” Xavier students and faculty describe themselves and their accomplishments!

es ‘14 kylie dewe

ANGEL OF HOPE

ms. olson

BOSTON MARATHON RUNNER

eot ‘14 p h a r a s

SOCCER STATE CHAMPIONS HIP

ers ‘15 gabe whitt

LIVED IN NEW ZEALAND

cole turner ‘14

G PLAY IN E COLLEG LL A B T O O F

derek fry ‘1 5

WRITING A BOOK

ns mrs. kear

SAVED A LIFE

tt ‘16

grace mcdermo

KENNEDY DIVING TEAM

Page design: Jenna Fenske Photos: Mary Esker