December 17, 2014 by Xavier High School Newspaper

Volume 17, Issue 7 December 17, 2014

Christmas with Xavier

Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 www.xaviersaints.org www.issuu.com/xpressnewspaper/docs= Follow us: @xpressnewspaper Page Design and Photos by Kathleen Parrish

2 Index

News.. 2 | Opinion.. 4 Student Life.. 6 | Mini-Feature.. 7 Feature.. 8 Health & Lifestyle.. 10 | A & E.. 11 Sports.. 14 | Backpage.. 16

Xpress Staff Editor-In-Chief Katherine Bauer

Photo Editor

Kathleen Parrish Photographers Jessica Fenske Ellie Detweiler Maddy Bailey

Business

Tory Brown

Distribution

Donavin Wenger

Online Editor Jeff Frieden

News Editor Tyler Testin News Writers Kathleen Parrish Tory Brown Erin Drahozal Amy Boe KJ Giles

Opinion Editor Amy Boe

Opinion Assistant Abby Willey Opinion Writers Nic Ekland Erin Drahozal Erin Foley Brooke Alexander Adrienne Hayes

Student Life Editor Jenny Dickes

Student Life Assistant Morgan Ross Student Life Writer Stephanie Wehr

Mini-Feature Editors

Faith Bohrer & Mikayla Noonan Mini-Feature Assistant Hadley Shriver

Feature Editors

Brady Hoffman & Jessica Driscoll Feature Writer Brylee Bastian

Health and Lifestyle Editor Samantha Valenta

Health and Lifestyle Assistant Maddy Bailey Health and Lifestyle Writer Hailey Justice

Arts & Entertainment Editor

Kayla Thompson & Rachel Lampe Arts and Entertainment Writers Catie Locher Donavin Wenger Nic Ekland

Sports Editor

Daniel Richardson Sports Assistant KJ Giles Sports Writers Luke Koechner Grant Gibney Ryan Williams Mark Wardlaw

Backpage Editors Jessica Fenske

Backpage Assistant Ellie Detweiler Backpage Writer Anna Christianson The Xpress Bi-weekly Xavier High School 6300 42nd St. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52411 Volume 17 Issue 7

Xavier High School News Saints strike it rich with driving safety Xavier High School was among 100 high schools in the nation to receive a $25,000 grant from the Celebrate My Drive organization. Created by State Farm, Celebrate My Drive encourages teenagers to make smart decisions while driving. They emphasize their slogan, 2N2: two eyes on the road, two eyes on the wheel. Students, administrators, parents, and Xavier supporters rallied around the cause by making online commitments to take safe driving precautions, such as always wearing a seat belt, never looking at a phone, and always being alert and attentive while at the wheel. “It’s awesome that I helped contribute to the grant that Xavier earned,” senior Elizabeth Bailey said. “It’s great we got the money, but it’s also great that all the students at Xavier are promising to be safe drivers to help protect others and themselves while behind the wheel.” The money that Xavier earned while committing to be safe drivers will go towards various Xavier programs. Ten percent of the money will go toward raising awareness and increasing safety among young drivers. The remainder will go toward technology upgrades in

the Student Success Center and in classrooms. A portion of the winnings will be also be shared with the other Metro-Catholic middle and elementary schools in Cedar Rapids. “We are thrilled about the $25,000 and how it will benefit Xavier students, but the important part is that Celebrate My Drive is designed to improve teen driver safety,” Marketing Director Mr. Nick Ireland said. “This is a topic that hits close to home for the Xavier community and for myself personally, so I wasn’t surprised that there was such a great support from the community for this program.” State Farm representative Doug Valentine visited Xavier

State Farm representative Doug Valentine presents Xavier with the Celebrate My Drive award of $25,000. Kellie Wagner Photo. High School on the morning of December 3 to present the school with their check. For more information about the contest or to learn how to make a commitment to celebrate driving, visit www.celebratemydrive.com.

Erin Drahozal News Writer

HOSA combats finals week stress Throughout finals, Xavier will host therapy dogs in the practice gym. The dogs will be at school Thursday, December 18 and Friday, December 19 during school hours to help students decrease stress from final exams. The dogs are coming from Spiritual Care Services at St. Luke’s who have worked with over one hundred people at once with the therapy dogs and their owners. The HOSA organization from Xavier is in charge of this student activity. “Studies show that interaction with animals reduces anxiety and improves physical and mental health,” Xavier nurse Mrs. Kris Naeve said. “The goal is to have students be more relaxed during finals, which will help to increase their concentration levels.” The idea of therapy dogs was presented at a HOSA meeting last spring in order

to relieve some of the stress that comes with finals. “I think it’s a great idea to relieve stress and relax,” junior Kayla Brady said about the dog therapy. Many students are excited that the rumor of dogs in school is turning into a reality this year. “I will probably go, although it will be crowded, because I think it will be really fun,” Brady said. The Huffington Post compiled a list of the top four ways to reduce additional stress. The first step is to accept the things in life you cannot control. Students and teachers know that final exams and final grades are inevitable at this time in the year. Students can control the amount of time they study for finals and the amount of time they put into their final assignments.Teachers can focus on grading one class at a time. The next way to de-

David G. Thinnes Attorney at Law

319-363-3185 Thinnes & Quint Law Offices Suite 537 Higley Bldg. Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

stress is to take a walk. Really any exercise will do. This gets the blood flowing and releases endorphins. Practicing relaxation methods is the third step to living a life with less stress. This could include yoga or meditation. Finally, eating better and sleeping regularly for a healthy amount of time will help relieve the body. Both of these positive changes help set one’s mood and energy on the right foot. Relaxation comes from within. Everyone needs to find their own ways to destress. Xavier is taking a step in helping students and faculty with the therapy dogs.

Tory Brown News Writer

News

December 17, 2014

Ms. Swehla, Sherman get haircuts for a cause Walking down the Xavier hallway, it is obvious who has made a recent trip to the barbershop. A new hairdo might earn a few compliments, but it not often that a haircut significantly improves society. Few haircuts are so drastic, or as charitable, as the recent trims of band director Ms. Kelli Swehla and senior Mikayla Sherman. Both members of the Xavier community assisted someone in need with their haircuts. Sherman decided to cut her hair short to show solidarity with a grandparent afflicted with cancer. Hair loss is one of the negative side effects of cancer treatment. A hard time can be made better if the patient can share their short hairstyle with a friend or family member. “My grandma was diagnosed with stage two lung cancer and was going to be starting chemo soon,” Sherman said. “So the goal was that our hair would grow back at the same time, so that she wouldn’t have to be bald alone.” Ms. Swehla grows out her hair so she can make periodic donations to Locks of Love. This charitable organization is based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Locks of Love uses donated hair

to make custom fit hairpieces for balding children, ages 21 and younger, suffering from diseases like alopecia areata and cancer. Hairpieces are also sometimes given to burn victims. The youth Locks of Love supports would be unable to afford a high quality hairpiece, valued between $3,500 and $6,000, without the generous hair donations of Ms. Swehla and thousands of others. “My motivation for cutting my hair is that it just needed it,” Ms. Swehla said. “I’ve always been lucky to have hair that grows quickly so it gets pretty long. I know that Locks of Love requires at least 10” of hair so when I get to that point, I make sure to donate it.” Neither Ms. Swehla nor Sherman has any regrets about getting their hair cut short. Locks of Love makes hundreds of hairpieces per year, and they can always use more donations. It takes locks from six to ten donors to create a single hairpiece. “I feel better and hopefully so will someone else down the road,” Ms. Swehla said. “I will grow it out again to do the same thing in the future.” One simple haircut can

bring happiness to someone in need. For Sherman and her grandmother, it made a sad diagnosis more bearable. “I’m still very happy I cut it,” Sherman said. “My grandma was so happy when I did, and seeing her so happy in this hard time was the most rewarding part of it all.” Getting a haircut can be a trivial chore for most people, but for Ms. Swehla and Sherman it was an opportunity to help others. Their recent trims are clearly a cut above the rest.

Left: Senior Mikayla Sherman shows the haircut she got to cheer up her grandmother diagnosed with lung cancer. Kellie Wagner Photo. Above: Kelli inches trimmed donates Love.

Band director Ms. Swehla holds 10 of her recently hair before she it to Locks of Submitted Photo.

Tyler Testin News Editor

1330 Elmhurst Drive NE Cedar Rapids, Iowa

319-368-6460

WWW.MTMERCY.EDU

Be valued. The values upon which the Sisters of Mercy founded this institution remain as relevant today as they were when we welcomed our first students more than 85 years ago. We remain dedicated to service, driven to leadership and grounded in the pursuit of knowledge. It’s a legacy Mount Mercy University was born to uphold; a legacy that we want you to be a part of. 2010 Xavier Graduate

JERICA CHRISTENSEN ’15 Majors: Fine Arts & Secondary Education Minor: Religious Studies Hometown: Cedar Rapids, IA

Schedule a visit and see what Mount Mercy can offer you.

WWW.MTMERCY.EDU/VISIT

Opinion

4 Make the most of your time left “ D o n ’ t blink. Just like that you’re six years old, and you take a nap, and you wake up, and you’re twenty five and your high school sweetheart becomes your wife.” Most people know the song Don’t Blink by Kenny Chesney. This song relates to us because we only have 720 days of high school. As high school students, it is hard to find our place socially. We feel as if we need to change who we truly are in order to be accepted by others. Before this year, I found it very hard to fit in, and I was willing to do whatever it took to feel as if I was part of a group. I talked rudely about people who had been there for me because I felt that it was okay and that I needed to do it in order to fit in. Once I was a part of this new friend group (or at least felt as if I fit in with them), I realized it wasn’t what I wanted. Since then, I have learned that it doesn’t matter if I am a part of a friend group because it’s not worth losing my individuality and becoming someone I’m not. It’s easy for someone to say that they haven’t changed the way they have been acting or changed the way they dress.

Crutches: a blessing in disguise

People often use the excuse that they are just “growing up.” However, I do not agree with this. If you feel as if you need to drink or smoke to be closer to your peers, you are wrong. To jocks, to the popular kids, the nerds, the athletes, and all other groups: I understand that you have those certain people who you have been close to for a very long time and that you go to for everything. However, when the grade you are in is known as the most cliquey grade in the school, I think it is time we expand our horizons and get to know other people. I’m not saying you have to hang out with people you usually wouldn’t every single weekend. Maybe ask someone to hang out who you typically wouldn’t. You never know how that person may feel because of that one invite. For me and all other juniors, we only have about a year and a half left at Xavier. I intend on making it great, and I challenge you to do the same. Try saying, “hi,” to someone new or opening your mind to someone else’s actions and thoughts even if they’re different from what you and your friend group think. Brylee Bastian Feature Writer

Xavier High School

Is too much expected of students? One of my favorite things in the world is lists, specifically todo lists. Lately, I’ve noticed my list has been growing in size and in importance. It used to include unimportant and petty things like “paint nails” and “clean bathroom.” Now, however, it’s filled with things like “apply for scholarship,” ”email boss for time off,” and “write APUSH essay.” In between school, college, social lives, family time, service, work, and extracurricular activities, we are still expected to be wide awake and attentive during class. This is overwhelming. Is too much expected of us? A typical day for me includes waking up at 6:40 and going to bed at 12. This means I get, on average, less than seven hours of sleep each night. The National Sleep Foundation says that teenagers should get eight and a half to nine hours of sleep every night. However, only 15% of high schoolers actually get eight and a half hours. A lot of adults are probably thinking, “Can’t you just go to bed earlier?” This is a difficult question because it doesn’t have a straightforward answer. Teens could go to bed

class. It’s through the teachers through the lunch line and who let me leave a few minutes Madsy offers to carry my tray early to lunch so I can get there along with hers. Then the lunch before the stampede. It’s the ladies stop and geniuelnly ask unexpected classmate who me what happened. Going to When I lets me pass down a one way Pre-Calc, Mrs. Miltner already had surgery hallway before themselves. has a chair waiting by my on my knee It’s the small things that count, seat so I can put up my leg. over Thanksthe small things that can make When one has crutches, the giving break, someone’s day. It’s walking true kindness of Xavier shines I was nervous a b o u t retur ning to school. At first, I was a little hesitant to deal with crowded hallways, sitting for long periods of time, and the lunch line. After one day, my nerves were quickly settled, and I started to see the kind acts that make Xavier such a great place to be. Walking on crutches at Xavier has been a blessing in disguise, and I’ve seen the hands of God at work in the students and faculty in many ways. It’s been through the underclassmen who see me in the hallway and ask if they can Senior Madsy Richards helps senior Brady Hoffman in help me carry something to the lunch line by holding her tray. Amy Boe Photo.

earlier, yes, but often times we’re staying up late working or doing homework. There simply aren’t enough hours in the day for us to fit everything in before 9 o’clock at night. Now, some people are probably thinking, “Oh that’s insane, there’s no way you have that much work to do each night.” On the contrary, good people, there is always work to be done in the life of a high schooler! In addition to studying for around four tests or quizzes a week, an average Xavier student can also expect to have one to two hours of homework ranging from Spanish worksheets to social studies essays. The majority of Xavier students are also involved in after school activities. Therefore, about two hours a day are spent lifting for sports, practicing an instrument, rehearsing show choir, or taking part in team bonding activities. And we can’t forget about social lives, making time for family, service work, part time jobs, and staying fit. Oh, and then there’s college applications and writing essays for scholarships and honors programs. The next time a good student in class falls asleep during a movie or forgets their homework on a rare occasion, try to put yourself in their shoes. Realize that they are most likely stressed and overworked and maybe, just maybe, cut them some slack. Adrienne Hayes Opinion Writer

brightly. I hope others get a chance to witness the kind acts of the Xavier community. Crutches are a pain, but in a place like Xavier, it makes the pain a little bit more bearable. It has taken me until I needed crutches to have the experience of the good things that people can do. I encourage everyone to lend an extra hand today to a friend or classmate. You do not realize the impact a small gesture could make on someone. I have seen Christ in the halls and classrooms of Xavier. Thank you to all who have been making me and my fellow crutchies friends’ days. Brady Hoffman Feature Editor

December 17, 2014

Opinion

Appreciate Peggy for all she does W h e n you think of a company or business, you think of the person in charge. While the head of the company is important, you don’t even think of what is going on behind the scenes. Mrs. Peggy Hrncirik is that behind the scenes person who holds Xavier High School together. To put it simply, we need Peggy. Even if you don’t know Peggy, I’m sure she’s helped you out in some way. If you’re sick, Peggy is the one who takes note. If you have to leave early or come to school late, she makes sure you sign in and out. She answers every call and every question you have. Not to mention, she knows the schedule of all the administration in the school and even gets to know the students’ names individually. This is all done with a smile on her face and a positive attitude.

The best gift you can get and give is kindness

Secretary Peggy Hrncirik helps out a sophomore student. Koechner Photo.

We take Peggy for granted. One great example of Peggy helping out a student happened to me a few weeks ago. I was going out of town, and I went in before school to get a pass. Peggy gladly gave me a pass and then kindly asked where I’m going. I told her I was going to Kansas City to visit family, and she listened and told me how it sounded like fun. A couple hours later, I went to the office to sign out. Peggy then told me to have a good weekend and have fun in Kansas City. Not only was she being extremely helpful and kind, she also remembered where I was

going and told me to have a good time, which is extremely considerate considering she is basically managing 730 students all at the same time. Peggy truly is the reason this school is so organized and everyone is so calm. Peggy is always at the front desk so if you have a chance sometime, go in and see Peggy and thank her for all she does. She doesn’t do this for her benefit; it’s for the students.

of the year!” Both of these are false. Normally, with a birthday near Christmas, we I m a g i n e get the presents from some sharing a family members known as b i r t h d a y “combined” presents. You with another might’ve heard me reference f a m i l y “Birthmas,” which I really member or need to get copyrighted, but close friend. it’s for this exact reason. You You might get can benefit from the combined over-shadowed by them, get presents method because you upset by the lack of attention, might’ve received a more or feel like you are competing expensive item, which could with them. Now, imagine be better than two cheaper sharing your birthday with and less interesting ones. My parents have always Jesus. Christmas is already been great about getting one of the most celebrated family together to holidays, and that’s simply our one more thing people celebrate my birthday and are interested in. Having a then celebrating Christmas birthday on or near Christmas separately. My parents never might put some people in an fail to hang the “Happy unfestive mood, but I try to Birthday!” banner in our look on the bright side. The house on my birthday week. truth is having a Christmas “Birthmas” is also great for birthday is awesome! lazy people, and it ultimately When I tell someone that turns us into lazy people. I was born on December With Christmas decorations 22, I am constantly greeted and food constantly being with either the positive or prepared, setting up for a negative. For example, “Woah! party is almost effortless. Also, Your birthday is so close to people feel bad for you and Christmas! You must get a tell you to sit back and relax ton of presents!” or “Woah! while they put the ornaments That must be horrible! You on the Christmas tree. Another tendency that don’t get presents for the rest

Birthmas kids see is the people who decide to wrap our presents in Christmas wrapping. Yes, I know it’s Christmas time, but I’m honestly fine with your Barbie wrapping. “Thanks for the present, but you do know it’s my birthday, right?” Although we are excited to receive a present, we are also fed up with the snowman and snowflake wrapping paper. As I’ve grown up, I’ve learned to love my birthday and know that Jesus can have this week, and I can always celebrate my half birthday in June or after New Years. Even if my birthday dinner is candy canes and Santa-shaped cookies and I watch “A Christmas Story” for the thousandth time, I’m always happy that my family is home and excited to share all of the holidays.

We wish you a Merry “Birthmas”

Luke Koechner Sports Writer

Ellie Detweiler Assistant Backpage Editor

During the Christmas s e a s o n , people often are asked the question, “Do you prefer giving or receiving gifts?” Most people say they prefer giving, but nobody can deny the fact that receiving gifts is always nice, too. I recently received a gift that has changed the way I go about my everyday life, and maybe this will inspire you to think a little bit differently, too. I was called to the office the other day and received a letter. It was a notecard sized piece of paper decorated with Christmas ribbon and stickers. The paper was filled with kind words and compliments that left me with a huge smile on my face. At the end of the letter, it thanked me for being a kind person. The giver of this note is still anonymous to me. As I talked to my classmates throughout the day, I learned that about 10-15 others had received a similar letter, mostly junior girls. Everyone was speculating and desperately trying to guess who the sender of these notes was, but nobody could figure it out. As much as I would love to know who said all of these kind words to me, I think it’s really cool that this person has decided to remain anonymous. They have truly shown how easy it is to make someone’s day. It has made me want to do something similar to this, because making others happy is truly one of the best feelings. I love knowing that somebody, whoever it is, appreciates my kindness. It made me think about the fact that you never know who is watching you. To whoever is writing these anonymous letters: thank you for brightening so many people’s days. To everybody else: I encourage you to be kind to everyone this Christmas season. What goes around comes around, and you never know how your actions will benefit others in the future. Abby Willey Assistant Opinion Editor

Mini-Feature

December 17, 2014

Cold-O-Meter No matter what the temperature may be outside, it seems as though Xavier is always a little bit chilly. In an effort to eliminate speculation, The Xpress used the same thermometer in nine different areas of Xavier to measure temperatures. The results are as follows:

• Mr. Sullivan 60.5 F

• Choir 64.5 F

• Mrs. Kearns 61 F

• Mrs. Richmond 67 F

• Chapel 63 F

• Mrs. Wagner 67 F

• Mrs. Miltner 64.5 F

• Mrs. Wendt 69 F

• Library 68 F

What do you set the heat at? “I set the heat to 68 F, unless there is a complaint.”

When does the heat shut off?

Rich Miller

Janitor~ since 2001

“The gym shuts off at 8 p.m. & acedemic classrooms at 6 p.m.”

US Regulations:

The Department of Labor sets the minimum temperature at 68 degrees and the maximum temperature at 76 degrees.

Design by: Faith Bohrer Mikayla Noonan Information Collected by Faith Bohrer and Mikayla Noonan. Photos by iClipart.com. Information from smallbusiness.com

Xavier High School

Student Life

Only 16 days until January 1, 2015!

“I want to work out more for my New Year’s Resolution.” Jax Junge ‘18

“My goal is to not procrastinate on homework next year.” Sara Maloney ‘15

“My New Year’s Resolution is to read the Bible more diligently.” Gwen Cataldo ‘17

New Year’s

Resolutions

Popular Resolutions 1) Lose weight 2) Volunteer to help others 3) Save money 4) Eat healthy food 5) Take a trip 6) Get a better job 7) Get better grades 8) Manage stress

Ways to Keep Your Resolution Work with a friend Be realistic Reward yourself Track your progress 5) Start with small steps 6) Focus on one resolution 7) Avoid past, failed resolutions 8) Outline your plan 1) 2) 3) 4)

Page design by: Jenny Dickes and Morgan Ross. Information collected by: Stephanie Wehr. Information from www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New-Years-Resolutions.

December 17, 2014

Feat

Show your Chr ily m a er F v i r Sh

Delany Breitbach, ‘15 -10 pairs of Christmas socks

“My mom is a photographer w pictures for our Christmas ca

-Purchased at Von Maur and Younkers

Shelby Olson, ‘17 -10 pairs of Christmas socks

-Purchased at Target

Recreating a photo from the picture for a Chri

Lou’s Christmas Trees

Lou Hasley, ‘15

“My fascination with Christmas trees started sophomore year when I realized I had nothing better to post on Instagram.”

Winner

The Scott Family The K

ture

ristmas Spirit

Xavier High School

Jon Jacobi, ‘17 -4 pairs of Christmas socks

-received as gifts

who loves taking creative ard.”- Lindsay Shriver, ‘17 Richardso n Family Taylor Deutmeyer, ‘16 -2 pairs of Christmas socks -Purchased at Target

Page design by Brady Hoffman and Jessica Driscoll. Information collected by Brylee Bastian and Anna Christianson Photos submitted.

e past could make a great istmas card.

2nd

3rd

Kortemeyer Family The Brown Family

4th

5th

The Burger Family The Hennings Family

Health & Lifestyle

Xavier High School

All I want for christmas is food With finals coming up and last minute Christmas shopping, these next few days leading up to Christmas will be busy ones. Take a little break and make some delicious snacks to get you through.

Peppermint Bark - Caramels - Candy Canes - Peanut Brittle

Snowman Pretzels Provided by: Molly Kimbro ‘15

1. Melt white chocolate and roll large, long H pretzels in the chocolate. O 2. Use mini chocolate chips for the eyes, a piece of blue fruit rollup for the nose, a W tiny longer piece of blue fruit rollup for the scarf, a gummy lifesaver for the rim of the hat, and a gumdrop for the top of the hat.

T O 3. Stick all pieces of the snowman on with melted white chocolate.

Sugar Cookies - Hot Chocolate - Fudge - Chocolate Pretzels

Reindeer cupcakes Provided By: Lauren Michels ‘19

Bake a batch of chocolate cupcakes and frost them with chocolate frosting.

H O 2. Place small pretzels on top of the for ears and white M&Ms for the eyes. W cupcake Dot the white M&Ms with black frosting to finish the eyes

T 3. Place a small vanilla wafer cookie towards middle of the cupcake for the mouth and glue O the a small brown M&M onto the middle of the cookie for the nose.

Gingerbread Men - Eggnog - Oreo Truffles - Cheesecake

Chocolate Strawberries Provided by: Nick Drahozal ‘17

Melt bricks of chocolate by placing them in a H 1. bowl over boiling water. O 2. Dip each strawberry into the melted W chocolate. To decorate the strawberries with sprinkles, dip the still wet strawberry into a bowl of green and red sprinkles.

T 3. Another option is to let the chocolate dry O and then decorate the strawberries with red and green frosting.

Page Design: Sam Valenta, Maddy Bailey, and Hailey Justice. Pictures and Information: foodista.com. flickr.com, gourmetmomonthego.com

11 A&E Art Club Latest: Painting Snowplows

December 17, 2014

On Tuesday, December 2, the Art Club went to the shop and completed their latest project: painting snow plows. The plows they painted are fully functional machines and will be used sometime this winter. This is the first time Xavier has completed a project as unique as this.

Left: Art Club Moderator, Mrs. Stephanie Wendt, helps the students plan their project. Right: The members smile as they work on their Xavier themed plow.

The completed Xavier (above) and Disney’s Frozen (below) snowplows.

“There was a really fun environment. Being surrounded by awesome, creative people was really inspiring. We also had a small paint fight!” -Belle Canney ‘17 Kayla Thompson A&E Co-Editor

Mark Wardlaw Information. Mrs. Jessica Budde Photos.

Schulte performs at TCR Theatre Cedar Rapids has performed Shrek the Musical since November 21. Freshman Grace Schulte had the opportunity to be a part of the production. She played the parts of Teen Fiona and the Shoemaker’s Elf in the show. First, Schulte had to audition. Auditioning for a TCR show involves singing a portion of a song from the musical, performing a dance routine, and then reading a portion of the script individually or in a scene with others. After being cast into the musical, Schulte rehearsed every weekday for two months prior to the first performance. “If I was to give one piece of advice to someone who was interested in trying out for a show, I would say to do your best and leave the rest!” Schulte said. “There will always be things that you can’t control, but the important thing is to not get discouraged. Be bold and take risks. You never know what the director has in mind!” Following the the completion of this production,her sixth TCR show, Schulte looks forward to future opportunities to participate in Theatre Cedar Rapids productions. “My biggest inspirations are all of the young actors and actresses

who leave behind everything to chase their dreams,” Schulte said. “To be that in love with your career has always been and will always be my biggest life goal.” The show wraps up this week with three more performances through Saturday, December 20. Tickets are limited and on sale either at TCR’s box office downtown, or online at www.theatrecr.org/.

Donavin Wenger A&E Writer

Fionas Emily Reiter, Grace Shulte, and Sophie Lindwall pose for a photo before a production. Photo Submitted.

Liu performs in All-State band The Xavier band is excited to have sent one of their own to the All-State Music Festival.Senior Lucy Liu was accepted as one of the 11 clarinetists after auditioning three years in a row.She was thrilled after putting in so much hard work. The process started back in July, when the requirements were posted. Those auditioning were to learn two etudes, a solo, and 12 major scales. To have a chance of being accepted, the standard practice time is an hour or longer every single day. “Most students view All-State instrumentalists with insane abilities or extra talents,” band director Ms. Kelli Swehla said, “What they don’t realize is that these students are the ones who work the hardest day in and day out to hone their skills.” On the day of the audition, students woke up early and had to be at the audition center before 8 a.m. For the initial audition, Liu played two excerpts from the etudes, her solo, and three major scales. After that, she waited for the recall list to be posted. In her recall audition, she played the rest of the etudes and two more major scales. After the recall, the wait continued for the 11

clarinet players to be announced. “I didn’t dare look at the list when they posted it,” Liu said. “Ms. Swehla told me I was on the list. It was instant relief and happiness. I even cried a little bit.” Liu is very honored to have had an amazing experience at AllState. For the rest of the year, she plans on focusing on concert band.

Catie Locher A&E Writer

Senior Lucy Liu poses with her clarinet. Read Photography Photo.

A&E

Nic’s Picks

Xavier High School

Upcoming Movies

Christmas Edition

Pentatonix

Favorite Songs: Santa Claus is Coming To Town Mary Did you Know Sleigh Ride

Christmas is upon us, and family and friends rejoice in Christ’s birth. What better way is there to get into the spirit of the holiday than with some festive jams? At one time, I will admit, I thought the contrary. I was a bit of an Ebenezer Scrooge. That was until I listened to Pentatonix. This magnificent, five person a cappella group took hold of my cold heart and melted it. You’ve never heard the Christmas season quite like this; taking hold of the reigns on Santa’s sleigh and effectively changing the game as we know it. Their newly released album, That’s Christmas to Me, offers a beautiful blend of pinpoint precision and bold vocal arrangements. I can honestly say that there is not one bad song out of the 11 track album,

capturing the meaning of Christmas and delivering an icy blast of goodness. The group’s renditions of classic Christmas music is sure to appeal to any audience: the powerful Mary, Did You Know?, the heart warming Silent Night, and beat-boxing Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy are all included. Pentatonix is a remarkable group, and their talent cannot be denied. I am a changed man when it comes to my views of Christmas music. Buy That’s Christmas To Me on iTunes for $7.99 and enjoy the season of giving the right way. Nic Ekland A&E Writer

The Interview (R) “I want to see The Interview because it has Dave Franco in it.” Kiana Stanek ‘17

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (PG) “I want to go see Night at the Museum because it is the last movie Robin Williams is in, and I like all of the previous Night at the Museum movies.” Aurora Mitchell ‘15

Into the Woods (PG) “I want to see Into the Woods because it has Meryl Streep and Anna Kendrick in it, and it combines classic fairy tales with a dark, dramatic twist.” Emma Houser ‘15

Annie (PG) “I want to go see Annie because I loved the original version and a more modern version would be so exciting! I also love Jamie Foxx who plays Mr. Warbucks in the film.” Kylie Tritle ‘15

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (PG-13)

Unbroken (PG-13)

“I want to see The Hobbit because I’ve seen all of te other movies. I also want to see if it is close to the book.” Jack Frieden ‘17

“I want to see Unbroken because it looks good.” Alex Francois ‘17

Xavier’s Xhilaration prepares for competition With the competition season just around the corner, show choir members are more than ready to get on the stage and show off their hard work. This includes 12-hour choreography camps, which began in the summer, and late night rehearsals after long school days. Xhilaration director Mr. Matt Walker is one of many looking forward to the promising season. “Things are going really well so far,” Mr. Walker said. “We are busy getting everything ready: polishing the show, adding in costumes, and working with the show choir combo. I think we are all excited for the season to start!” With choreographers Jarad Voss and Victoria Burns putting the final touches on

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the show, the show choir members are keeping focused on their goals for this season. “Our goals are to get better every single rehearsal and to create the best, most enjoyable show for our audiences,” Mr. Walker said. The students, as well as the director, are all excited for

the competitions to begin. “We have a new competition we’re going to this year, and I can’t wait to see how it goes,” senior Xhilaration member Alea Challenger said. “Practices are super fun because we all get along really well. We work hard and get a lot of stuff done,

Xavier’s Xhilaration performs in the competition season. Megan Lynch Photo.

2013-2014

but there are always jokes being made and laughing.” Songs for Xhilaration’s 20142015 show include Vision of Love by Chris Allen, I’ve got the World on a String by Michael Bublé, Anchor Me by The Tenors, Love Runs Out by One Republic, Over Overthinking You by Christina Grimme, and Save the World/Don’t you Worry Child by Pentatonix. The competition season will begin Saturday, January 10 at Cedar Rapids Prairie where Xhilaration will compete. Xhilaration and Xuberance will have their first performance, Xhibition, at Xavier on Friday, January 2. Rachel Lampe A&E Co-Editor

A&E

December 17, 2014

Annual Christmas with Xavier Concert performed

Above: Freshmen female choir, Bel Canto, joyfully performs their songs.

Left: The concert band performs their holiday pieces. Above: Mr. Matt Walker conducts the Xavier Chorale as they sing. Kathleen Parrish Photos.

On December 14, the Ron Thillen Gymnasium was filled with the sounds of Christmas when the Xavier choirs and concert band performed their annual Christmas with Xavier concert. All Xavier choirs practiced their songs since the end of their first concert, the Fall Vocal Preview, in October. Mr. Matt Walker and Mrs. Jaclyn Hussey are the choir directors at Xavier, and have worked hard, teaching all choir students the songs for the concert. This concert brings together both the choir department and the band, a feature unique to Christmas with Xavier. “It is a wonderful opportunity to bring us all together along with the community to celebrate Christ’s coming through beautiful music,” Mrs. Hussey said. “I always feel an elevated sense of joy, excitement, and astonishment during our Christmas with Xavier Concert.” It was not just the directors looking forward to the concert. The students did as well. Working with their choir director everyday in class, they grew to appreciate the songs they were learning. “My favorite song is All my Heart,” sophomore Nick Drahozal said. “Mr. Walker had us relate it to our own lives and I think that it left an impression on all of Chorale.” Band director Ms. Kelli Swehla and the band students had also worked hard preparing for this concert. They played five songs: Christmas Variants, Christmas Flourish, O Magnum Magisterium, and Feliz Navidad. “Students and audiences alike get in the Christmas spirit,” Ms. Swehla said. “It’s fun to spread it around to one another!” The choir department will now be preparing for the Metro Choir Concert, which will take place on March 2. Meanwhile, the concert band is preparing for their next concert, the Metro Catholic Band Festival, on February 24.

Kayla Thompson A&E Co-Editor Dick Alexander Kelli Alexander Nancy Alexander Kermit and Florence Alveshere Peter and Joan Bailey Ryan and Tracy Bastian Jim and Judy Bauer Ken and Rosemary Bauer John Beaird Nancy Bicket Kathy Black Doug and Charla Boe Sandy Boe Daryll and Beth Bohrer Marti Bowman Hannah Brown Heidi Brown Lydia and Mike Brown Christy Bryant Cassie Busch Anna Busse Sheli Christianson Hannah Chute Gary and Mindy Coleman Jane and Rod Collins Sharon Danielson Mr. and Mrs. Mike Delaney Brooke DeWolf John and Darlene Dickes Steve and Pat Dickes Jan and Mike Drahozal Joe and Kelly Drahozal George and Lois Drey Bette Ekland Tom and Terry Ekland Stephen and Kay Elliot Jacob and Theresa Fahnle Jack and Micki Fenske

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Sports

Xavier High School

Mallie dedicates time to cross country, wrestling As the famous Vince Lombardi once said, “The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand.” When coaching more than one sport throughout the year, these qualities are essential to perform the job to the best of one’s abilities. For cross country and wrestling coach Mr. Kyle Mallie, the power of competition has led him to continue contributing to these sports beyond his own high school career. “Coaching has taught me how to deal with different personality types,” Coach Mallie said. “I am still working on keeping everyone motivated all season long. It can be tough for athletes to maintain a positive attitude after they feel like they have

Coach Mallie anticipates the start of a wrestling meet last year. Meghan Gerke photo.

underperformed.” As the head coach for the boys’ and girls’ cross country team, he has used his motivational skills to help establish a formidable program with three individual state qualifiers, along with a girls’ team qualifier over the past two seasons. He is also a teacher in the Social Studies

Bailey, Breitbach lead by example Despite being one of the longest seasons, the start of the varsity basketball season is an extremely vital time for Coach Lilly and the Saints. To have a good start, a team should have three key elements to be successful. The Saints possess these three qualities. First, they have experienced players, including four-year varsity players and senior captains, Morgan Breitbach and Lizzy Bailey. Secondly, they have a veteran coach with great assistants, Coach Dave Sullivan and Coach Maggie O’Connell. Finally, the third aspect that the Saints have goes along with the size of being a 4A school playing against 5A competition, which provides a regular season that is often times more difficult than the playoffs. Bailey has been the leading scorer throughout the first few weeks of the season. She has

been superb at drawing the foul and then making her free throws count. She has scored one third of her points from the line and is 91% on her free throws. Close behind in scoring is Breitbach, who is an impressive 62% from the field. On the defensive end, junior Meghan Joens has earned 17 defensive rebounds and has had another eight on the offensive end, leading the Saints in total rebounds this year with 25. The girls’ team plays Friday, December 19 at Cedar Rapids Jefferson. After finals and Christmas Break, the season picks back up at Davenport Assumption on Saturday, January 3.

department and is in his first year as the moderator for Student Senate. This winter, he will be serving as an assistant wrestling coach for the second straight season. Last year, Xavier qualified four different individuals to take part in the state competition at Wells Fargo Arena, one of the highest totals in school history. “Coach Mallie is always pushing us to work harder,” sophomore wrestler Josh Gerke said. “He always wants us to practice right so we perform right and to never take a rep off.” On December 11, Coach Mallie and company hit the mats against the Kennedy Cougars for the annual 42nd Street rivalry. Ron Thillen Gymnasium was filled to capacity in anticipation for a night of exciting wrestling

action. The Saints had to forfeit several matches since they could not fill out the required weight classes, however, a key 15-13 decision by Alex Francois in the 220-pound weight class helped to seal the 42-33 team victory. Josh Gerke (132), Ryan Williams (170), and Sam Meyers (195) each pinned their opponents in their matches. Jeff Vipond (106) and Clint Lembeck (138) also picked up wins, respectively. The Saints can next be seen in action on Saturday, December 20 in the Doug Phillipp Duals at Xavier. Meet time is 9 a.m. Daniel Richardson Sports Editor

Senior bowlers excited for final year

The boys’ team is off to a perfect start this season, and senior Brett Young is ready to make the most out of his final year with the bowling team. “I’m excited, and I want to get everyone excited about what we’re doing,” Young said. “We want to work hard in practice to get better, and the goal is to make it to state.” With a 2-0 record this year, they are currently one of eight undefeated teams and hold the seventh highest per game average at 197 pins per match. The girls’ team is still trying to find their stride this season in the hopes to bounce back after a down year during the 2013-2014 season. Currently 0-2 on the year, senior Kayla Thompson has been a bright spot for the girls, averaging Luke Koechner a team high 167 pins. “Bowling has been a Sports Writer big part of my high school experience, and I am very appreciative of everything that

I have learned throughout my time on the team,” Thompson said. “This year I finally get to be the leader of the team, and it’s been a lot of fun!” As for the boys’ individuals, former state champion Caleb Miller is continuing his winning ways, leading the team with 232 pins a game over four games. The season is still young and with plenty of time to improve, Miller has already cracked the top ten in average pins and is looking to improve upon that ranking. The boys’ team will compete next at the Prairie Invitational at Lancer Lanes on Saturday, December 20. The girls’ team will start back up after the New Year. Ryan Williams Sports Writer

December 17, 2014

Sports

McDermott shines in young season The 2014-2015 Xavier boys’ basketball season officially kicked off December 1 as the Saints took on an inexperienced Mount Pleasant team at home. Led by senior shooting guard Adam McDermott, Xavier took an early lead and did not look back on their way to a 66-24 victory. McDermott led the game’s scoring with 20 points on eight of twelve shooting, including three of four from behind the arc. McDermott also added three assists, four steals, and four rebounds. Senior Calvin Winker and junior Mitchell Burger also scored in double digits with

11 and 10 points respectively. The Saints received key minutes off the bench from senior forward Joe Welch. Welch scored four points on two attempts and added a team leading five rebounds. “To improve, we just need to be ready to go everyday,” Welch said. “We have to come to practice ready to work and get better everyday as a team.” Xavier played again on December 6 at Waverly Shell Rock. McDermott led the way with 26 points in the 66-54 loss to the Go-Hawks. McDermott also added a team high 8 rebounds. Senior Jake Velke led the Go-Hawks in scoring with 33 points.

With the football and volleyball seasons over, the District and All-State teams have been released for the 2014 season. Senior volleyball player Kayla Torson received honorable mention on the 4A girls’ volleyball All-State team. “At college, my main goal is to become a better all around athlete and become a better person,” Torson said. Torson is playing volleyball at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Senior offensive tackle Tim Otting was nominated by the Iowa Newspaper Association as First Team All-State. The Des Moines Register nominated Otting for Second Team All-State. Otting also received First Team All-District honors. “I am very happy with all

Kortemeyer as Second Team All-State. Maher was also nominated by the Iowa News Paper Association as Second Team All-State. The First Team All-District consists of senior running back Nic Ekland, senior linebacker Thomas Ickes, senior running back Jay Kortemeyer, senior defensive Tim Otting and Kayla Torson tackle Michael Maher, and pose for a photo after receiving All-State awards. senior safety Dylan Eller. Kellie Wagner Photo. The Second Team three teams,” Otting said. All-District includes senior Otting is looking to play cornerback Camden Stovie, cornerback Matt college football at either the senior Division I or Division II level. Otting has official college visits at both Northwestern Missouri State and Winona State in the near future. The Des Moines Register nominated senior defensive tackle Michael Maher and senior running back Jay

Junior Mitchell Burger shoots a free throw on December 12 against Kennedy. Emiko Coffey photo.

“We aren’t playing so hot right now,” senior forward Noah Clasen. “We will be alright. We just need to get after it in practice and find our rhythm.” Xavier took on Kennedy

at the battle for 42nd street on December 12. Kennedy ran away from the Saints in the second half behind sophomore Drake Brewster’s 18 points. Kennedy topped the Saints 72-44. McDermott scored 19 of the team’s 44 total points for the Saints. Xavier played on December 16 against Dubuque Senior. They play again on Friday, December 19 home against Jefferson. K.J. Giles Assistant Sports Editor

Saints receive postseason awards Downey, and sophomore quarterback Bryce Schulte. Junior Dallas Klein was named as the All-District kicker for the Saints. Grant Gibney Sports Writer

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December 17, 2014

What kind of tree do you have?

Fake Tree 67% Real Tree 33%

Do you have stockings?

No 9% Yes 91%

Where do you go for Christmas?

Stay at Home 68% Go out of Town 32%

How many Christmases do you celebrate? Two 41%

Three or more 32%

Which do you prefer?

One 26%

Sugar Cookies 88%

Do you participate in Secret Santa?

No 43%

Both 57%

When do you open Presents?

Christmas Day 36%

Gingerbread 12%

Yes 56%

Christmas Eve 7%

Surveyed out of 344 people

“I love having three Christmases because I get three times the presents and three times the food.” -Luke Lesnik ‘17

Page Design By: Jessica Fenske and Ellie Detweiler. Photos By: Anna Christianson, iClipart

“I have four Christmas trees in my house. I also have a six foot tall tree in my room” -Madi Ries ‘16